Balkan Delight Sponge Cake

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Victoria Sponge to Balkan cuisine, we incorporate Balkan-style jam, which is typically made from local fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or sour cherries. Additionally, we use a combination of whipped cream and yogurt for the filling, adding a tangy twist to the traditional recipe. The cake is also dusted with powdered sugar, a common practice in Balkan desserts. We alse have the original recipe for Victoria Sponge, so you can check it out.

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 250g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted Balkan-style butter, softened 250g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) unsalted Balkan-style butter, softened
• 250g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) granulated sugar 250g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) granulated sugar
• 4 large Balkan-style eggs 4 large Balkan-style eggs
• 1 tsp Balkan-style vanilla extract 1 tsp Balkan-style vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• 120ml (1/2 cup) Balkan-style milk 120ml (1/2 cup) Balkan-style milk
• 200g (1 cup) Balkan-style jam (raspberry, strawberry, or sour cherry) 200g (1 cup) Balkan-style jam (raspberry, strawberry, or sour cherry)
• 250ml (1 cup) Balkan-style whipped cream 250ml (1 cup) Balkan-style whipped cream
• 250g (1 cup) Balkan-style yogurt 250g (1 cup) Balkan-style yogurt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 13g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. 6.
   Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
7. 7.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. 9.
   Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread the jam evenly over one cake layer.
10. 10.
    In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the yogurt.
11. 11.
    Spread the whipped cream and yogurt mixture over the jam layer.
12. 12.
    Place the second cake layer on top and dust the entire cake with powdered sugar.
13. 13.
    Serve the Balkan Delight Sponge Cake chilled or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Balkan-style butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
• Balkan-style jam — Choose your preferred flavor of Balkan-style jam, such as raspberry, strawberry, or sour cherry, for an authentic Balkan taste.
• Balkan-style whipped cream — Whip the cream until soft peaks form, being careful not to overwhip it.
• Balkan-style yogurt — Use full-fat Balkan-style yogurt for a creamy and tangy filling.
• Powdered sugar — Sift the powdered sugar over the cake for an even and elegant dusting.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more festive touch, decorate the top of the cake with fresh berries or edible flowers.
• Experiment with different flavors of Balkan-style jam to find your favorite combination.
• If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can add a thin layer of powdered sugar icing on top of the jam layer.
• Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Balkan Delight Sponge Cake as a centerpiece dessert for special occasions or enjoy it with a cup of Balkan-style coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Presentation advice

Present the Balkan Delight Sponge Cake on a beautiful cake stand or platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for an elegant touch.