Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a loaf pan (about 9×5 inches) with parchment paper, extending up the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Whip Eggs & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl (stand mixer or hand mixer), combine eggs, sugar, and cream of tartar (if using). Whip on high speed for 8–10 minutes until thick, pale yellow, and tripled in volume. The mixture should fall in a slow ribbon when you lift the whisk.
Step 3: Add Honey
Gently fold in the honey using a spatula until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Sift in Flour
In three additions, gently sift the flour over the egg mixture. Fold carefully after each addition — do not overmix or deflate the batter.
Step 5: Pour Into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is deep golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing. Gently pull the parchment paper to remove the cake from the pan.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Castella Every Time
- Use Room Temperature Eggs : They whip up better and hold more air.
- Don’t Skip the Cream of Tartar : It helps stabilize the egg whites for extra volume.
- Sift Flour Multiple Times : Helps keep the cake light and prevents lumps.
- Avoid Opening the Oven Early : Premature peeking can cause collapse.
- Store Properly : Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep moist.
🍯 Creative Ways to Customize
Make this recipe your own with these fun twists:
- Matcha Castella : Add 1–2 tbsp matcha powder to the flour mix.
- Chocolate Castella : Substitute 2–3 tbsp flour with cocoa powder.
- Citrus Zest : Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright twist.
- Honey Glaze : Brush warm cake with a light honey glaze for extra sweetness.
- Layered Version : Cut horizontally and fill with whipped cream or jam.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pan?
Yes! Just adjust the baking time accordingly. A shallower pan will cook faster.
Is Castella gluten-free?
No, unless you substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and check for cross-contamination.
Can I freeze Castella cake?
Yes! Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Why did my cake sink?
Opening the oven too early or under-whipping the eggs are common causes.
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✅ Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Castella Sponge Cake — it’s humble, yet unforgettable. Its simplicity is what makes it so elegant, and its texture is what makes it so addictive.
Once you taste your homemade slice — warm, slightly sticky on top, and impossibly soft inside — you may never go back to boxed cakes again.
So grab your eggs, dust off your whisk, and give this Japanese classic a try. You won’t regret it.
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