The Victoria Sponge Cake—also known as a Victoria Sandwich—is a beloved British classic that shines with simplicity and elegance. Named after Queen Victoria, who enjoyed a slice with her afternoon tea, this light and fluffy sponge cake is traditionally filled with whipped cream and strawberry jam.
For a celebration, the Victoria Sponge transforms beautifully into a showstopping centerpiece—layered, dusted with powdered sugar, and optionally decorated with fresh berries or edible flowers. It’s the perfect cake for birthdays, weddings, baby showers, Mother’s Day, or any joyful gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
✅ Soft, airy sponge with buttery richness
✅ Classic flavor combination of jam and cream
✅ Simple to bake, elegant to serve
✅ Easily customizable for festive looks
✅ A timeless recipe that works for any season
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sponge:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (225g) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups (225g) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp milk
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam
- 3/4 cup heavy cream, whipped (or use buttercream)
- Optional: fresh strawberries or raspberries, sliced
For Decoration:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers
How to Make Victoria Sponge Celebration Cake
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy—about 3–5 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add vanilla extract.
4. Fold in Dry Ingredients
Sift in self-raising flour and baking powder. Gently fold with a spatula or spoon. Add milk if the batter feels too thick.
5. Bake the Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Smooth the tops. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and tops are golden.
6. Cool and Assemble
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, spread jam on one layer and top with whipped cream. Place the second cake on top.
7. Decorate
Dust with powdered sugar. Add berries, flowers, or a celebratory cake topper if desired.
Optional Variations
- Buttercream filling instead of whipped cream for a richer taste
- Use lemon curd or raspberry jam for a twist
- Add a layer of fresh berries inside the cake
- Make it a 3-layer cake for extra wow factor
- Infuse the sponge with rose water or almond extract
Tips for the Perfect Victoria Sponge
- Weigh ingredients for precise texture
- Don’t overmix after adding flour to keep the sponge light
- Use room-temperature ingredients
- Chill the whipped cream before spreading
- Assemble just before serving to maintain the structure if using fresh cream
How to Store
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 day
- Refrigerate if using fresh cream, for up to 2 days
- Best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made
Perfect For:
- Afternoon tea parties
- Birthday celebrations
- Mother’s Day or bridal showers
- Garden parties or weddings
- Any moment that calls for a beautiful, classic cake
Final Thoughts
The Victoria Sponge Celebration Cake is proof that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated. With its light texture, classic flavor, and timeless look, it’s a cake that fits every occasion—offering warmth, charm, and a delicious nod to tradition.
Classic. Beautiful. Always in style. 🍓🎂