What is the recommended temperature for cooking sponge cake?

The recommended temperature for cooking sponge cake is typically around 180 degrees Celsius. This temperature allows the cake to rise properly and cook evenly while keeping the desired light and airy texture. At this temperature, the proteins in the eggs coagulate just right to provide structure without becoming dry, and the sugar aids in caramelization, enhancing flavor and color.

Higher temperatures, such as 200 degrees or 240 degrees, could lead to the outside of the cake cooking too quickly, potentially leading to a dry or burnt exterior while leaving the interior undercooked. Conversely, a temperature as low as 160 degrees may not provide enough heat for proper rising, resulting in a denser texture rather than the light, fluffy quality characteristic of sponge cakes.

Therefore, understanding that 180 degrees allows for optimal cooking conditions is crucial for achieving the best results when baking sponge cake.