Nana taught me this and I bake it regularly! Always a hit! Can't believe how soft it is!

Soft Chocolate Sponge Cake is a delightful and indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. This cake, with its airy texture and rich chocolate flavor, is a family favorite. Whether you’re planning a cozy Sunday afternoon gathering or a special birthday celebration, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. The origins of this classic dessert can be traced back to European patisserie traditions, but it’s wonderfully adaptable to any occasion where you want to show some extra love.

This lovely Soft Chocolate Sponge Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of fresh berries. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also complements the rich chocolate flavor wonderfully. For a little extra warmth, consider serving it with a cup of hot coffee or a mug of cocoa. It's also nice to have some lightly toasted nuts on the table for a delightful crunch beside the soft texture of the cake.

Servings: 8-10 servings

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In another large bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer on high speed until they lighten in color and thicken, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Gradually add sugar to the eggs while continuing to beat until well combined and fluffy.

5. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the dry flour mixture with a spatula until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving.

For a special twist, you can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before baking. If you have picky eaters, consider making a simple vanilla sponge cake by omitting the cocoa powder and adding an extra 1/4 cup of flour. For an added citrusy flavor, a teaspoon of orange zest makes a wonderful addition. Lastly, if you prefer a more decadent treat, substitute half of the milk with buttermilk for a richer flavor and extra moist texture.