Victoria Sandwich Cake

A Classic British Treat with Creamy Layers and Jammy Goodness

The Victoria Sandwich Cake is a timeless British favorite—light, buttery sponge filled with raspberry jam and whipped double cream. With its soft crumb, golden rise, and delicate balance of sweetness, it’s the perfect afternoon tea treat or dessert for any occasion.

A simple yet elegant cake that brings together two layers of joy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🧈 Buttery Sponge Perfection: Rich, tender layers made with equal parts flour, butter, and sugar for classic Victoria texture.
• 🍓 Jam Swirl Center: Raspberry adds tangy contrast to the sweet sponge and cream.
• 🥣 Whipped Double Cream: Silky, airy, and perfectly light between the two layers.
• ⏱️ Quick & Easy: From mixing to baking in under an hour—ideal for last-minute cravings.
• 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family gatherings, school events, or as a gift.

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Ingredients (Makes 1 cake / 8–10 servings):

For the Sponge Cake:

• 225g (2¼ sticks) unsalted butter , softened (or margarine for dairy-free version)
• 225g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) caster sugar (or granulated sugar – finely ground if needed)
• 4 large eggs , lightly beaten (or flax eggs for vegan option)
• 225g (2 cups) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder)
• 2 tsp baking powder (if not using self-raising flour – ensures lift)
• Pinch of salt (optional – balances sweetness)

For the Filling:

• 120g (½ cup) raspberry jam (or strawberry/blackberry for variation)
• 150ml (⅔ cup) double cream , whipped to soft peaks (or coconut cream for vegan version)

Optional Finishing Touch:

• Icing sugar or caster sugar for dusting
• Fresh raspberries or edible flowers for garnish

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prep Oven & Pans

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) or fan 160°C .

Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

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Step 2: Beat Butter & Sugar

Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat:

• Butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy (4–5 minutes ).

Scrape down the bowl as needed to ensure even blending.

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Step 3: Add Eggs Gradually

With the mixer on low speed, add eggs one at a time , beating well after each addition.

Add a splash of vanilla extract if desired for extra depth.

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Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Sift:

• Self-raising flour (and baking powder if needed) into the batter.

Mix on low speed in three additions , just until combined.

If the batter is too stiff, add 1–2 tbsp milk or cream to reach “dropping consistency”—the batter should fall slowly from a spoon but not be runny.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake for 25 minutes , or until cakes are golden and spring back when pressed.

Let cool in pans for 10 minutes , then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

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Step 6: Assemble Like a Pro

Once cooled, spread raspberry jam over one cake layer.

Top with a thick layer of whipped double cream .

Sandwich with the second cake layer.

Dust the top with icing sugar before serving.

Each bite brings together:

• Buttery, soft sponge layers
• Sweet-tart jam pockets
• Silky, whipped cream finish
• And that classic tea-time charm

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Tips for Success:

• 🥣 Use Room-Temp Eggs: Ensures smooth blending without curdling.
• 🧁 Don’t Overmix: Mix only until just combined—this keeps the crumb light.
• 🥟 Cake Hack: For extra richness, brush layers with a quick vanilla syrup after baking.
• 🍓 Jam Swap Magic: Try blackberry, apricot, or lemon curd for different finishes.
• ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Wrap and store layers overnight—fill just before serving to prevent sogginess.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or chamomile tea .
• Great with a dollop of Greek yogurt or mascarpone instead of cream for lighter version.
• Ideal for afternoon tea, birthday snacks, or late-night cravings .

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Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 8 – approximate):

(With regular butter and cream – per serving)

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fat: ~25g
• Fiber: ~0.5g
• Sugar: ~20g

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This Victoria Sandwich Cake proves that simplicity doesn’t mean bland—it means bold flavor done right. With its soft sponge, creamy center, and fruity finish—it’s a must-bake for lovers of traditional British desserts.

Additional Notes:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free self-raising flour and check all ingredients for GF certification.
• Vegan Swap: Replace butter with margarine, use flax eggs, and whip up coconut cream for filling.
• Storage Tip: Store unfilled layers in foil wrap—fill just before serving to keep them fresh.
• Flavor Hack: Add lemon zest or orange extract to the cream for citrus brightness.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make mini versions and refrigerate for easy afternoon treats.

Pro Tip: For a golden crust , place a sheet of parchment over the cake during the first 20 minutes of baking—remove for final 5 minutes.
Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible gold leaf for luxury flair.
History Fun: The Victoria Sponge was named after Queen Victoria**, who enjoyed it with her afternoon tea—this version gives it a modern twist with richer cream and smoother assembly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid:

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Optional Variations:

1. Victoria Cupcakes

Bake batter in muffin tins for 18–20 minutes , fill with jam and cream.

2. Lemon Victoria Cake

Add zest of 1 lemon to the batter and lemon curd in the center.

3. Chocolate Twist

Stir 2 tbsp cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate sponge—fill with strawberry jam and chocolate shavings .

4. Mini Victoria Sandwiches

Cut full cake into small squares for tea party bites .

5. Almond Victoria Cake

Add ½ tsp almond extract to batter and sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking.

6. Vegan Victoria Cake

Replace eggs with chia/flax egg , use plant-based butter and vegan cream .

7. Coffee Victoria Cake

Add ½ tsp instant coffee granules to the batter for deeper flavor.

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Final Serving Touches:

• Dust with powdered sugar
• Drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce
• Serve with jam on the side
• Pair with clotted cream or mascarpone

The Victoria Sandwich Cake isn’t just a cake—it’s a symbol of elegance and tradition. So take your time, enjoy the process, and savor every rich, creamy bite.