7.1 Types of Cakes - 7.1 Types of Cakes Explained

Key Concepts

• Sponge Cake
• Chiffon Cake
• Genoise Cake
• Butter Cake
• Pound Cake
• Biscuit Cake
• Cheesecake

Sponge Cake

Sponge cake is a light, airy cake made primarily from eggs, sugar, and flour. It is known for its delicate texture and is often used as a base for layered cakes or as a standalone dessert. The eggs are beaten to incorporate air, which gives the cake its characteristic lightness.

Example: A classic Victoria sponge cake is a simple sponge cake filled with jam and whipped cream. The light texture makes it a popular choice for afternoon tea.

Chiffon Cake

Chiffon cake is a light, fluffy cake that combines the characteristics of both sponge and butter cakes. It uses vegetable oil instead of solid fat, which keeps the cake moist. The eggs are separated, with the yolks and whites beaten separately and then combined.

Example: A lemon chiffon cake is a popular variation, where the acidity of the lemon juice helps to stabilize the egg whites, resulting in a moist and tangy cake.

Genoise Cake

Genoise cake is an Italian sponge cake that is made without chemical leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda. Instead, it relies on the air incorporated into the eggs during beating. The cake is often soaked with a syrup to add moisture and flavor.

Example: A traditional Genoise cake is often used as the base for elaborate layered cakes, such as a Bûche de Noël, where it is soaked with coffee syrup and filled with buttercream.

Butter Cake

Butter cake is a dense, rich cake made from butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. The butter is creamed with sugar to incorporate air, which gives the cake its tender texture. Butter cakes are versatile and can be flavored in various ways.

Example: A classic yellow butter cake is often used for birthday cakes. The rich, buttery flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for celebrations.

Pound Cake

Pound cake is a dense, moist cake made with a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. It is known for its simplicity and rich flavor. The cake is often baked in a loaf pan and can be served plain or with fruit or glaze.

Example: A lemon pound cake is a popular variation, where lemon zest and juice are added to the batter, giving the cake a refreshing citrus flavor.

Biscuit Cake

Biscuit cake, also known as biscuit dough or baking powder biscuit, is a light, crumbly cake made with baking powder as the leavening agent. It is similar to a sponge cake but has a slightly denser texture due to the use of baking powder.

Example: A classic biscuit cake is often used for making trifles. The light, crumbly texture absorbs the flavors of the custard and fruit, creating a delicious layered dessert.

Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert made primarily from cream cheese, eggs, and sugar. It is often baked or set with a crust made from graham crackers, cookies, or pastry. Cheesecakes can be flavored with various ingredients, such as fruit, chocolate, or caramel.

Example: A New York-style cheesecake is known for its dense, creamy texture and is often topped with a fruit sauce or chocolate ganache.

Analogies

Think of sponge cake as a delicate cloud, light and airy, perfect for floating on a summer day. Chiffon cake is like a soft pillow, fluffy and moist, providing comfort with every bite. Genoise cake is akin to a sturdy foundation, versatile and reliable, supporting more elaborate creations. Butter cake is the rich, indulgent treat, satisfying and comforting, like a warm hug. Pound cake is the classic, timeless dessert, simple yet rich, like a well-worn book. Biscuit cake is the light, crumbly pastry, absorbing flavors like a sponge, perfect for layered delights. Cheesecake is the creamy, indulgent dessert, rich and satisfying, like a luxurious spa day.