Description
Moist Castella Cake
A perfectly soft and moist Castella Cake with a delicate crumb and rich flavor.
Ingredients:
6 eggs
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper.
Separate egg whites and yolks. Beat egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form.
Mix yolks with milk, oil, and vanilla.
Fold in flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gently incorporate egg whites.
Bake for 50 minutes until golden.
A soft, moist sponge cake with a smooth texture!
#MoistCastellaCake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Castella Cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on two sides for easy removal. In a large, clean bowl, beat the 6 egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the 1 cup of sugar while beating, and continue until stiff, glossy peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks with the 1/2 cup warm milk, 1/4 cup oil, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
Sift the 1 cup of flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt directly into the yolk mixture. Gently whisk until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Using a spatula, add one-third of the meringue (egg whites) to the yolk batter and fold gently to lighten it. Then, carefully pour this mixture back into the remaining meringue bowl. Fold with a cutting and lifting motion until the batter is uniform and no white streaks are visible. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap it lightly on the counter to release large air bubbles.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake is delicious on its own but can be elevated with simple pairings. Serve plain slices with a cup of green tea or coffee for a classic experience. For a dessert, top with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also makes a delightful contrast to the cake’s subtle sweetness. It can even be lightly toasted and served with butter for a unique breakfast treat.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Prepare your pan and preheat the oven. Whip egg whites and sugar into a stiff meringue. Mix yolks with wet ingredients, then fold in sifted dry ingredients. Gently combine the meringue with the yolk batter until uniform. Bake low and slow at 325°F for about 50 minutes until golden and a tester comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pan size? Yes, but adjust the baking time. A larger, shallower pan will bake faster, while a loaf pan will take longer. Always check for doneness with a skewer.
Why did my cake deflate or become dense? This is usually due to under-whipped meringue, over-mixing when folding, or opening the oven door too early during baking. Ensure your meringue is stiff and fold gently.
Can I reduce the sugar? Sugar provides structure and moisture. Reducing it by more than 25% can affect the cake’s texture and cause dryness.
Do I need a water bath (bain-marie)? While traditional Japanese Castella uses one, this recipe is designed for simple baking without it, relying on low heat to achieve moisture.
How should I store the cake? Store cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold eggs, which prevents the meringue from reaching full volume.
- Adding sugar all at once to the egg whites; gradual addition is key for stability.
- Over-mixing the batter after adding the meringue, which deflates the air bubbles.
- Not tapping the pan before baking, leaving large bubbles that create tunnels.
- Testing for doneness too early; wait until the top is golden brown to prevent collapse.
Conclusion
This Moist Castella Cake recipe delivers a beautifully tender, flavorful sponge with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this elegant yet simple cake. Its delicate sweetness and perfect crumb make it an impressive treat for any occasion, from an afternoon snack to a refined dessert. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!