saffron sponge cakeSaffron Sponge Cake: A Delightful Afternoon Dessert

Many people enjoy preparing sponge cakes at home and decorating them in various ways. Consequently, saffron sponge cake is another delightful variation that can be enjoyed by adding saffron. Sponge cake is popular worldwide and serves as the base for many different kinds of cakes.

Making saffron sponge cake is quite easy, and you can easily prepare it at home to serve as an afternoon treat with family or friends. In fact, the delicious flavor of the sponge cake combined with saffron and cardamom makes for a delightful experience when paired with afternoon tea, creating a sweet memory for your gathering. In this article from the Saffronia Trading Group, we will share how to prepare the delicious saffron sponge cake.

The Unique Aroma and Color of Saffron

Saffron is an expensive and luxurious spice that holds a special place due to its nutritional, medicinal, and economic values. Iranian saffron, particularly from Qaenat, is globally renowned. Many countries have recognized the value of saffron exports and entered this market.

One of the main competitors to Iranian saffron is Spanish saffron, which now holds a portion of the market. Beyond its medicinal and culinary value, saffron has a unique fragrance and flavor, which is evident in pastries and beverages like saffron latte, a thrilling hot drink made with saffron. Saffron sponge cake is, therefore, one of the popular and delicious pastries that is enhanced by the aroma and color of saffron, making it even more attractive and flavorful.

Ingredients Needed for Delicious Saffron Sponge Cake

Using saffron in cooking, dishes, and pastries is very common and has become a staple. By choosing high-quality saffron, the color and taste of any dish become more beautiful, flavorful, and delightful. Consequently, saffron sponge cake is no exception. Once you learn how to make saffron sponge cake, you can create a delicious treat for your family or friends. Here are the ingredients you will need:

  • 5 eggs
  • 2 cups of sugar
  • 2 cups of milk
  • 4 cups of cake flour
  • 2 tablespoons of baking powder
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sifted flour
  • 5 tablespoons of brewed saffron
  • Cardamom (as needed)

How to Make Delicious Saffron Sponge Cake

Now that we’ve introduced the ingredients, it’s time to prepare the saffron sponge cake. The aroma and taste of this saffron and cardamom cake will undoubtedly make your kitchen a delightful space.

Step 1

Before starting, let the eggs sit for 30 minutes in the kitchen to come to room temperature. In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking powder, and sift them twice. In a separate bowl, break the eggs and separate the yolks and whites.

Step 2

Next, whip the egg whites with an electric mixer until they form soft peaks. Add three tablespoons of sugar to the egg whites and continue mixing until it holds its shape without spilling when the bowl is tilted. Place the egg whites in the refrigerator to keep them cool.

Step 3

Then, whip the egg yolks along with vanilla and cardamom powder until the mixture becomes creamy and light. Add the milk and continue mixing for another 30 seconds to fully combine the ingredients.

Step 4

At this stage, add the brewed saffron to the egg yolk mixture, and mix again with the electric mixer until everything is smooth and homogeneous. It’s important that the saffron is finely powdered before adding it. This is crucial for achieving the cake’s optimal color and flavor.

Step 5

Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture, mixing gently to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites as you add them in three stages. Mix softly to keep the air in the egg whites intact.

Step 6

Once everything is properly mixed, pour the cake batter into a prepared cake pan lined with parchment paper or greased with oil. Tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.

Step 7

Preheat the oven to 180°C about 30 minutes before baking. Then, bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. To test if the cake is done, use a fork or toothpick; it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool before cutting it into pieces. You can decorate or serve it as is, accompanied by tea and other beverages.

Important Tips for a Perfect Saffron Sponge Cake

For a successful saffron sponge cake, ensure that you use high-quality ingredients. The right cake flour is essential because plain flour will make the cake heavy and prevent it from achieving the desired texture. When using saffron, make sure you source high-quality saffron from a reliable provider for optimal results.

Additionally, another key tip is to properly whip the egg whites. Many people believe baking powder is responsible for the fluffiness, but it is, in fact, the proper mixing of egg whites that makes the difference in achieving that light, airy texture.