Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• 4 large eggs (room temperature)

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp whole milk (warm)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (cold)

• 3 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Assembly:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (halved)

• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

• Optional: edible gold flakes for decoration

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Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch square or round baking pan.

2. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another large bowl, beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for 5–6 minutes until pale and fluffy.

4. Gently fold in sifted dry ingredients.

5. Add warm milk and vanilla extract, mixing gently until just combined.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.

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2️⃣ Make the Strawberry Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

2. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the strawberries soften and release their juices.

3. Mash slightly with a fork, then let cool.

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3️⃣ Make the Whipped Cream:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

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4️⃣ Assemble the Cake:

1. Slice the sponge cake in half horizontally.

2. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the bottom half.

3. Arrange halved strawberries evenly over the cream.

4. Place the top half of the cake on, then cover the entire cake with more whipped cream.

5. Drizzle generously with strawberry sauce.

6. Garnish with a whole strawberry on top, mint leaves, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and optional gold flakes.

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Serving Tip:

Serve chilled with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate treat! ☕🍓