Red Seal Baker Practice Exam

What are the key ingredients in a sponge cake?

1. Flour, butter, cream, and salt

2. Sugar, eggs, flour, and sometimes a fat

3. Eggs, yeast, milk, and flour

4. Flour, sugar, eggs, and baking powder

The correct answer is: Sugar, eggs, flour, and sometimes a fat

Sponge cake is known for its light and airy texture, which primarily comes from the incorporation of beaten eggs. The key ingredients in a classic sponge cake include sugar, eggs, flour, and sometimes a fat, such as butter or oil. In this type of cake, eggs act not only as a binder but also contribute to the leavening process when they are whipped to incorporate air. This creates a delicate structure that allows the cake to rise. Sugar plays a crucial role not only in sweetness but also in stabilizing the egg foams when beaten. The flour provides structure, while the occasional addition of fat can enhance moisture and richness, though traditional sponge cakes may be made without fat to maintain their characteristic lightness. This combination of ingredients sets sponge cake apart from other types of cakes, which may rely more heavily on fats and chemical leavening agents. The other ingredient combinations listed include elements typical of different cake types or baking methods, such as those containing yeast or other leavening agents, which are not characteristic of sponge cakes. Thus, the correct option captures the essential elements that define sponge cake recipes.