Introduction
Sponge cake is a classic dessert that never fails to impress. Its light, airy texture makes it the perfect canvas for a variety of flavors. Today, we’re elevating this traditional treat with the deliciously spiced notes of Biscoff and a creamy filling that will tantalize your taste buds.
This combination marries the subtle sweetness of sponge with the caramel and cinnamon notes of Biscoff spread. It’s an indulgent yet light dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sophisticated dessert that’s bound to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
Eggs are crucial for sponge cake as they provide structure and stability. They also add richness and moisture, resulting in a tender crumb. When beaten, eggs help to incorporate air, giving the cake a light and fluffy texture. - 1 cup granulated sugar
Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its texture and moisture retention. It helps to aerate the batter when whipped with eggs, creating a light and airy sponge that is essential for a cake that rises beautifully. - 1 cup all-purpose flour
Flour forms the backbone of any cake. In sponge cakes, it's important to use all-purpose flour for the right balance of protein, which allows the cake to rise and hold its structure while remaining soft and tender. - 1 teaspoon baking powder
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the sponge rises properly during baking. It contributes to creating the light and fluffy texture that characterizes a good sponge cake. - 1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors in desserts. It helps balance the sweetness and makes the overall flavor more vibrant. Even a small amount can elevate the taste of your sponge cake. - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Melted butter adds richness and moisture to the sponge cake. It contributes to a tender texture and helps in binding the dry ingredients together, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the cake. - 1/3 cup Biscoff spread
Biscoff spread brings a unique flavor profile to the cake, infusing it with notes of caramel and spices. It also contributes to the moisture of the cake, ensuring a delightful eating experience. - 1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is used for whipping to create a lush filling that complements the sponge cake. The richness of the cream adds a luxurious touch and helps balance the flavors of the sweet cake. - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the whipped cream without altering its texture. It also helps stabilize the cream, ensuring it holds its shape when piped or spread between layers. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the cake's flavor, contributing a warm aroma that pairs beautifully with the Biscoff notes. It's a classic addition that rounds out the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the cake pan.
Preheating the oven ensures that the sponge cake bakes evenly from the start, which is essential for achieving that light, airy texture. Preparing the cake pan with parchment paper will help the cake release easily after baking, preventing any potential sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Whisking the eggs and sugar together is a critical step in creating the desired texture for the sponge cake. This process incorporates air, which helps the cake rise and develop its lightness. Aim for a mixture that has doubled in volume and appears thick enough to leave a trail when drizzled.
Step 3: Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution within the batter. This step is vital for a uniform texture throughout the sponge cake, allowing it to rise properly without any dense pockets.
Step 4: Fold in the melted butter and Biscoff spread gently until just combined.
Gentle folding protects the air bubbles created earlier, maintaining the cake's light structure. Overmixing at this stage can result in a denser texture, so it's important to blend until no dry flour remains.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Ensuring the batter is evenly spread in the pan allows for uniform baking. Smoothing the top will help the cake to rise evenly and reduces any risk of doming or cracking during the bake.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Timing is key; underbaking can lead to a gummy texture, while overbaking may dry out your cake. The toothpick test is a reliable indicator that the cake is fully baked and will help ensure a perfect result.
Step 7: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooling the cake in the pan for a few minutes helps it to set and reduces the risk of breaking. Once it's cool enough to handle, transferring it to a wire rack allows for complete cooling, preventing sogginess on the bottom.
Step 8: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Whipping the cream to soft peaks ensures a light and airy texture that will beautifully complement the sponge cake. Overwhipping can lead to a butter-like texture, so it's important to monitor closely as you whip.
Step 9: Slice the sponge cake in half horizontally and layer the whipped cream inside.
Slicing the cake horizontally creates an opportunity to enhance flavor and moisture. Layering the whipped cream between the sponge adds richness and balance to the cake, making every bite indulgent.
Step 10: Spread additional whipped cream on top of the cake and drizzle with more Biscoff spread.
Finishing the cake with extra whipped cream creates a beautiful presentation and adds a final touch of creaminess. Drizzling with Biscoff spread not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal, making it look irresistible.
Step 11: Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience. It also sets the whipped cream, making it easier to slice and serve, ensuring a neat presentation at your gathering.
Deliciously Decadent Biscoff Swirls
By incorporating Biscoff spread throughout the sponge cake, you can amplify its flavor profile. Swirling the spread into the batter before baking creates ribbons of rich, caramel-spiced goodness that make each bite a special experience. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a delightful visual effect.
Layering for the Perfect Balance
The beauty of sponge cake lies in its versatility. Layering the cake with whipped cream not only adds richness but also brings moisture and a lush mouthfeel. When layered properly, the result is a cake that feels both indulgent and light, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This sponge cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. A cup of coffee or a chai latte complements the caramel notes of Biscoff incredibly well. For an extra touch, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the dessert experience further.
FAQs
What if my Biscoff spread is too thick to swirl into the batter?
If the Biscoff spread is too thick, briefly warm it in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften it. Stir well before incorporating it into the batter, ensuring a smooth and easy blend.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can enhance the flavor profile and add a delightful surprise in each slice. Just fold in about half a cup of chocolate chips during the final mixing stage before baking.
What should I do if my whipped cream collapses?
If your whipped cream collapses, it may not have been whipped enough or could have been overwhipped. Always aim for soft peaks and stabilize with powdered sugar; if it’s collapsed, try gently folding in a bit of unwhipped cream to lighten it again.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream?
If you feel your whipped cream is too sweet, you can simply add a pinch of salt to help balance the flavors or mix in a bit of freshly whipped cream without sugar to neutralize the sweetness.
What if my cake domes in the oven while baking?
A cake may dome due to overheating or an oven that’s set too high. To achieve an even rise, avoid opening the door frequently during the first half of baking and ensure your oven is calibrated correctly.
Can I substitute Biscoff spread with another type of spread?
Yes, you can substitute Biscoff spread with other cookie spreads, like Speculoos, or even Nutella for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the overall taste of your cake.
Conclusion
Sponge cake with Biscoff and cream is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that delights the senses. The blend of textures and flavors makes it perfect for celebrations or a simple family gathering. Each bite offers a taste of nostalgia while being refreshingly innovative.
Whether you choose to enjoy it as is or with additional toppings, this cake promises to impress. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and take pride in creating a dessert that your loved ones will cherish.
Recipe Card
Indulge in Amazing Pesto Shrimp Linguine
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions
- Sauté the garlic in olive oil
- Add the shrimp to the skillet
- Mix in the pesto and cooked linguine
- Add reserved pasta water as needed
- Season with salt and pepper
- Serve with Parmesan and optional tomatoes
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
