This Japanese Castella Sponge Cake is a light and fluffy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Known for its soft texture and rich flavor, this cake is a classic in Japanese cuisine and can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings.
The recipe is straightforward and utilizes simple ingredients to create a delightful cake that pairs wonderfully with a cup of green tea. Whether you’re making a traditional Castella Cake or trying a Chocolate Castella Cake variation, this recipe will guide you through the process.
Overview of Japanese Castella Sponge Cake
The Japanese Castella Sponge Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of Japanese baking. Known for its light and fluffy texture, this cake is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often enjoyed during tea time.
With its golden-brown top and airy, light yellow interior, this cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to eat. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for home bakers, while the results are sure to impress.
Ingredients for the Perfect Castella Cake
Creating a Japanese Castella Cake requires just a handful of ingredients, each contributing to the cake’s unique flavor and texture. The main components include large eggs, granulated sugar, honey, and all-purpose flour.
These ingredients come together to form a batter that is both rich and light. The addition of milk and melted butter enhances the moisture content, ensuring a soft and tender crumb. A pinch of salt and a hint of vanilla extract round out the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience.
Preparation Steps for Castella Cake
Preparing this Castella Cake is a straightforward process that can be completed in about an hour. Start by preheating the oven and preparing your loaf pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Whisking the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy is a key step that contributes to the cake’s airy texture. Following this, the incorporation of honey and vanilla adds depth to the flavor. Gradually folding in the sifted flour and salt ensures a smooth batter without overmixing.
Baking and Cooling the Cake
Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan and gently tap it to release any air bubbles. Baking at a controlled temperature allows the cake to rise evenly, resulting in a beautifully domed top.
After baking, it’s essential to let the cake cool in the pan for a short period before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling process helps maintain the cake’s structure and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions for Japanese Castella Cake
Once cooled, the Japanese Castella Sponge Cake can be sliced and served. Its light texture makes it an excellent companion for a cup of green tea, enhancing the overall experience.
This cake can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with various toppings, such as fresh fruit or a light dusting of powdered sugar. For those looking to experiment, variations like Chocolate Castella Cake offer a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This Castella Dessert serves approximately eight slices, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or intimate get-togethers. Each slice contains around 180 calories, with a balanced distribution of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
With its relatively low-calorie count and simple ingredients, this cake is a guilt-free indulgence that can be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, the Japanese Castella Recipe is a rewarding endeavor that promises delicious results.
Fluffy Japanese Castella Cake Recipe
This Castella Cake features a beautifully golden-brown top and an incredibly airy, light yellow interior. The preparation takes about 1 hour, and it serves approximately 8 people, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 1/4 cup milk at room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Honey and Vanilla: Stir in the honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold in the sifted flour and salt until just combined.
- Incorporate Milk and Butter: Gently mix in the milk and melted butter until the batter is smooth.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and tap it gently to remove any air bubbles. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g