How to Make Victoria Sponge Cake: A Classic British Favourite

The Victoria sponge cake — sometimes called Victoria sandwich — is a quintessential British bake named after Queen Victoria, who was said to enjoy a slice with her afternoon tea. With its light and airy sponge, sweet jam filling, and dusting of sugar, this classic cake remains a staple of British baking and is a highlight at everything from garden parties to birthdays and Sunday afternoons.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

🍰 What Is a Victoria Sponge Cake?

A Victoria sponge consists of two fluffy sponge cakes sandwiched together with raspberry jam and sometimes whipped cream. It’s simple, elegant, and a true representation of traditional British baking.

Unlike heavy frosted cakes, a Victoria sponge is delicate and refined — ideal for afternoon tea or a light dessert.

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🧈 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

For the sponge:

200g unsalted butter (softened)

200g caster sugar

4 medium eggs

200g self-raising flour

1 tsp baking powder

2 tbsp milk

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the filling:

100g raspberry or strawberry jam

100ml double cream (whipped), or buttercream (optional)

For the topping:

Icing sugar, for dusting

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Victoria Sponge Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4.

2. Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric whisk or wooden spoon until pale and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

2. If the mixture looks like it’s curdling, add a spoonful of flour to bring it back together.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract if using.

Step 4: Fold in the Flour

1. Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder.

2. Gently fold the flour into the mixture using a spatula or metal spoon, being careful not to knock out the air.

3. Add the milk and fold again until you have a smooth, dropping consistency.

Step 5: Bake

1. Divide the mixture evenly between the two cake tins and level the tops.

2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the sponges are golden and spring back when lightly pressed.

3. Allow to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

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🍓 Step 6: Fill and Assemble

1. Once the sponges are cool, place one layer on a serving plate.

2. Spread the jam evenly across the bottom layer.

3. If using, top with whipped cream or buttercream.

4. Place the second sponge on top and press down lightly.

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✨ Step 7: Finish with a Dusting

Dust the top of your cake with icing sugar for a simple, elegant finish.

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☕ Serving Suggestions

Serve Victoria sponge as part of afternoon tea with:

A pot of English breakfast tea

Fresh strawberries on the side

A little clotted cream (optional)

This cake is best enjoyed on the day it’s made but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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💡 Baking Tips for a Perfect Victoria Sponge

Use room temperature ingredients for a lighter sponge.

Don’t overmix the batter, or the sponge can become dense.

Cool completely before adding cream or jam to avoid soggy layers.

Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free self-raising flour.

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👑 A Slice of British History

The Victoria sponge was named in honour of Queen Victoria, who reportedly loved a simple sponge cake with her tea. It quickly became a fashionable treat in the 19th century and has remained a firm British favourite ever since.

While modern variations include buttercream, fresh fruit, or lemon zest, the traditional version remains timeless and adored across the UK.

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✅ Conclusion

Now you know how to make a Victoria sponge cake — a classic British recipe that never goes out of style. With its soft, buttery sponge and sweet jam filling, it’s perfect for entertaining, family gatherings, or a treat with your afternoon cuppa.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Hungry for more British baking recipes? Explore our posts on Jam Roly-Poly, Spotted Dick, and Treacle Tart to fill your kitchen with the comforting flavours of classic British puds.