Craving a classic bake that’s surprisingly simple? You can easily master this Traditional Victoria Sandwich, a delightful cake perfect for anyone new to baking. This timeless treat features light sponge cakes, rich cream, and sweet jam, making it a fantastic cake recipe for beginners.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Butter: Use unsalted butter, softened. Margarine can be used in a pinch.
- Sugar: Caster sugar (superfine) is best for a light texture. Granulated sugar works too.
- Eggs: Large eggs at room temperature.
- Flour: Self-raising flour ensures a lovely rise. If using plain flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder per 100g.
- Jam: Strawberry or raspberry jam are traditional.
- Cream: Double cream (heavy cream) for whipping.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 150g strawberry or raspberry jam
- 200ml double cream (heavy cream)
- 1 tablespoon icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal
- Tools Needed: Two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins, electric mixer (optional but helpful), mixing bowls, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Tins
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F). Lightly grease and line the bottoms of two 20cm round cake tins with baking parchment. This preparation ensures your cake recipe for beginners comes out cleanly.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, crucial for a tender sponge, a key part of cake recipes for beginners.
3. Beat in Eggs and Vanilla
Gradually add your eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the mixture looks like it’s curdling, add a tablespoon of flour to help it come together.
4. Fold in Flour
Gently fold in the self-raising flour using a spatula or metal spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your sponge tough. You’re almost ready to bake this fantastic cake recipe for beginners.
5. Divide and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared cake tins. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Sponges
Once baked, let the cakes cool in their tins for 5-10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure they are fully cool before assembling.
7. Prepare the Filling
While your cakes cool, whip the double cream with the icing sugar until it holds soft peaks. Do not over-whip, as it can become lumpy.
8. Assemble Your Victoria Sandwich
Place one cooled sponge cake on your serving plate. Spread an even layer of jam over the top, then dollop the whipped cream over the jam. Carefully place the second sponge cake on top.
9. Finish with a Dusting
Lightly dust the top of your assembled Victoria Sandwich with extra icing sugar. You have successfully created a beautiful and delicious cake recipe for beginners!
Variation Ideas
- Add a touch of lemon zest to the cake batter for a citrus twist.
- Try different jam flavors like blackcurrant or apricot.
- For a richer filling, mix a little cream cheese into your whipped cream.
Storage Instructions
Store your Traditional Victoria Sandwich in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If it’s warm, you might want to store it in the refrigerator, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make the sponges ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the sponges a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Assemble just before serving.
Q: Why did my cake sink in the middle?
A: This can happen if the oven door was opened too early, if the oven temperature was too low, or if the batter was overmixed.
Q: What if I don’t have self-raising flour?
A: You can use plain flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder for every 100g of flour.
Q: Can I use frozen berries in the jam?
A: Yes, you can gently heat frozen berries with a little sugar to make a quick compote to use instead of jam.
Q: My cake is a bit dry, what went wrong?
A: Overbaking is a common cause of dry cakes. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test for doneness with a skewer.
Q: Is this truly a good cake recipe for beginners?
A: Absolutely! The Victoria Sandwich uses simple techniques and common ingredients, making it an ideal cake recipe for beginners.