Homemade Castella Cake

Castella Cake (Kasutera) is a popular Japanese sponge cake known for its soft, light texture and slight sweetness. Made with just a few basic ingredients, this cake has a delicate flavor and pairs perfectly with tea or coffee. Originally introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, Castella has become a beloved dessert throughout Japan.

Why You’ll Love Castella Cake

Light and Airy: The cake is soft and fluffy, making it a delightful dessert or snack.
Simple Ingredients: Uses basic ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and honey.
Traditional Japanese Dessert: A unique cake with a rich history, perfect for special occasions or afternoon tea.

Key Ingredients

To make a delicious Castella Cake, you’ll need:

Basic Ingredients:

Eggs: 4 large, at room temperature.
Sugar: ¾ cup.
Bread Flour: 1 cup (bread flour gives the cake its signature texture).
Honey: 2 tablespoons, dissolved in 1 tablespoon of warm water.
Milk: 1 tablespoon, warmed.

Optional:

Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (optional, for added flavor).
Honey Glaze: Additional honey for brushing the top of the cake.

How to Make Castella Cake

1. Prepare the Cake Pan

Line the Pan: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends above the edges to help lift the cake out later.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).

2. Beat the Eggs and Sugar

Whip the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer at high speed for about 10 minutes, until the mixture is pale and thick, forming ribbons when lifted.
Add Honey and Milk: Gently stir in the dissolved honey and warm milk. If using vanilla extract, add it at this stage.

3. Sift in the Flour

Sift the Flour: Sift the bread flour over the egg mixture to ensure there are no lumps. Gently fold the flour into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.

4. Pour the Batter into the Pan

Fill the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, tapping the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

5. Bake the Cake

Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Check for Browning: If the top browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

6. Cool and Serve

Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully lift it out using the parchment paper and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Brush with Honey: For added sweetness and shine, brush the top of the cake with additional honey while it’s still warm.
Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into thick pieces and serve with tea or coffee.

Tips for the Best Castella Cake

Use Bread Flour: Bread flour is essential for the traditional texture of Castella Cake. It provides the structure needed to create the cake’s soft and bouncy texture.
Beat the Eggs Well: Beating the eggs until pale and thick is key to achieving a light and airy cake. This helps the cake rise without using any leavening agents.
Slow and Gentle Folding: When adding the flour, fold gently to maintain the airiness of the egg mixture. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.

Variations of Castella Cake

1. Matcha Castella Cake

Add 1-2 tablespoons of matcha powder to the flour for a green tea-flavored version of this classic cake.

2. Chocolate Castella Cake

Sift 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the flour mixture to create a chocolate version of Castella.

3. Lemon Castella Cake

Add the zest of 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.

Health Benefits

Low in Fat: Castella Cake uses no butter or oil, making it a lighter dessert compared to other cakes.
Rich in Protein: The eggs used in the recipe provide a good source of protein.
Naturally Sweetened: The addition of honey adds a natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar.

FAQs About Castella Cake

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While bread flour is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour, but the cake may not have the same soft, bouncy texture.

How long does Castella Cake stay fresh?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze Castella Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Castella Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

What should I serve with Castella Cake?

Castella Cake is perfect with tea or coffee, or you can serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey.

Conclusion

Castella Cake is a light and airy Japanese sponge cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack with tea or as a delicate dessert, this cake is sure to impress with its soft texture and simple, sweet flavor. For more traditional cake recipes, check out our Sponge Cake Recipe or explore Japanese Desserts for more delightful treats