Classic Vanilla Sponge Cake

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan with butter or oil and lightly dust with flour, tapping out the excess.

2.In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on high speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture is thick, pale, and has tripled in volume.

3.In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution and to avoid lumps.

4.Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg and sugar mixture in three additions using a spatula. Use a light hand to maintain the airiness of the batter.

5.In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly drizzle this mixture into the batter, folding gently until fully incorporated and smooth.

6.Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

7.Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8.Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

9.Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar if desired. Serve plain or with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite frosting.