Fluffy Hot Milk Sponge Cake
Desserts

Fluffy Hot Milk Sponge Cake

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 27, 2026

A light and irresistibly tender sponge cake made with hot milk — the secret behind its perfectly soft, cloud-like crumb. Easy to make with pantry staples, this classic is ideal for birthdays, afternoon teas, or as a layer cake base. One slice and you'll be making it on repeat!

Prep⏱️ 30 min
Servings👥 30 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
↓ Jump to Recipe Pin it
Pinterest WhatsApp Facebook

🛒 Ingredients

30 servings

30
  • 1 cup (250 ml) hot whole milk
  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • Butter and flour for the pan

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350 °F (180 °C). Grease and flour a large baking pan thoroughly.

  2. 2

    Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl to stiff, glossy peaks.

  3. 3

    With the mixer running, gradually add the sugar, then incorporate the egg yolks one at a time.

  4. 4

    Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold gently with a rubber spatula — do not overmix.

  5. 5

    Slowly pour in the hot milk while stirring gently until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

  6. 6

    Pour into the prepared pan and bake 30 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. 7

    Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to finish cooling.

💡 Chef's Tip

Hot (not boiling) milk is the key to this cake's signature moist, tender texture. Stop folding as soon as the flour disappears to keep the batter light and airy.