Reasons why the sponge cake swells in its pan

Sponge cake is a delicious and airy dessert that is loved by many around the world. One of the most common problems when baking a sponge cake is when it swells unevenly or excessively in its pan. This can lead to an uneven texture and an unsightly appearance. But what are the reasons behind this issue? Let’s explore some of the possible causes of why a sponge cake may swell in its pan.

1. Incorrect measurements: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are crucial. If you don’t measure the ingredients accurately, it can affect the cake’s texture and its rise. Too much flour or baking powder can cause the cake to rise excessively, resulting in a swollen appearance. Always make sure to follow the recipe closely and be precise when measuring the ingredients.

2. Overmixing the batter: When baking a sponge cake, it’s important not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause excessive air to be incorporated into the mixture, leading to a cake that swells too much. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined to avoid this issue. Overmixing can also cause gluten development, which can make the cake overly dense and prevent it from rising evenly.

3. Oven temperature: Another reason why a sponge cake may swell excessively is an incorrect oven temperature. If the oven is too hot, the batter will start to rise quickly, creating a dome-like shape. On the other hand, if the oven temperature is too low, the cake may take longer to bake, causing it to rise excessively. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature, as ovens can sometimes be inaccurate.

4. Pan size: The size of the baking pan used can also affect how a sponge cake rises. If the pan is too small, the batter will have less space to expand, leading to a cake that rises excessively and spills over the edges. Conversely, if the pan is too large, the batter may spread too thin, resulting in a flat cake. Always use the size of the pan recommended in the recipe to achieve the desired rise and texture.

5. Leavening agents: Leavening agents such as baking powder or baking soda are essential for proper rise in a sponge cake. Using too much of these leavening agents can cause the cake to rise excessively, resulting in a swollen appearance. Be sure to measure the leavening agents accurately and follow the recipe’s instructions.

6. Opening the oven door: Opening the oven door during baking can cause a sudden drop in temperature and disrupt the cake’s rise. This rapid change in temperature can lead to a cake that swells excessively or unevenly. Avoid opening the oven door until the cake has set and is almost fully baked. This will help the cake rise evenly and prevent any drastic changes in temperature.

In conclusion, several factors can contribute to a sponge cake swelling excessively in its pan. It is essential to measure ingredients accurately, avoid overmixing, maintain the correct oven temperature, use the recommended pan size, and handle leavening agents correctly. By paying attention to these factors, you can ensure that your sponge cake rises evenly and produces a delicious and visually pleasing final product. Happy baking!