CASTELLA CAKE
Ingredients
To prepare Castella Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
7 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (60ml) honey
1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
1 1/4 cups (160g) bread flour, sifted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Pan
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch (23x23cm) square cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it extends over the edges for easy removal.
Mix Honey and Water: In a small bowl, mix the honey with warm water until dissolved. Set aside.
Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs using an electric mixer on high speed until they are pale, thick, and frothy (about 5-7 minutes).
Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the eggs on high speed. The mixture should become thick and ribbon-like.
Step 3: Incorporate the Honey and Flour
Add Honey Mixture: Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add the honey-water mixture until just combined.
Fold in Flour: Sift the bread flour over the egg mixture in three parts. Gently fold each addition into the batter using a spatula, ensuring no lumps remain. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Tap the Pan: Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and immediately drop the pan gently onto the counter from a height of about 6 inches (15 cm). This helps to prevent the cake from shrinking.
Remove from Pan: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper overhang. Place the cake on a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and Serve: Once the cake is completely cool, slice it into pieces. Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Flavor Variation: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a bit of lemon zest to the batter for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
Castella Cake is a delightful Japanese sponge cake that’s known for its soft, fluffy texture and delicate sweetness. This simple yet elegant cake is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed plain or with various toppings. Follow this recipe to create a delicious Castella Cake that will impress your family and friends.