Colorful Steam Sponge Cakes are a joyful treat that bring vibrancy and softness to any table. Their pastel hues and cloud-like texture instantly brighten gatherings, making them as beautiful to look at as they are delightful to eat. With their light crumb and festive colors, these charming little cakes are a celebration in every bite.
Ingredients Breakdown
Eggs, sugar, and all-purpose flour form the foundation of this tender cake. Eggs provide structure and richness, while sugar lends the necessary sweetness and helps create a soft, moist crumb. The all-purpose flour binds it all together, offering just enough strength without making the cakes dense.
Almond milk, mixed with fragrant vanilla extract, infuses the batter with a subtle nutty sweetness. This mixture not only adds moisture but enhances the overall flavor, giving the cakes a delicate aroma that complements their lightness.
The real magic happens with the food coloring. A few drops transform simple batter into a visual delight. Whether using pastel tones for elegance or bold shades for a fun twist, the colors turn every cake into a work of edible art.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Beating the eggs and sugar together is the most crucial step to achieve that signature airy texture. Using a high-speed mixer for about 20 minutes ensures the mixture becomes thick, pale, and voluminous, setting the stage for perfectly fluffy cakes.
Once the eggs and sugar are whipped, the flour and vanilla-infused milk are gently folded in. Alternating between dry and wet ingredients maintains the airiness of the batter and prevents deflation, ensuring a light and tender sponge.
After the batter is combined, it’s divided into three bowls and tinted with different colors. Stir gently to avoid overmixing while ensuring the color spreads evenly through each portion.
Preparing the steamer properly is key. Wrapping the lid in a cloth prevents unwanted water droplets from dripping onto the batter, preserving the cakes’ delicate texture and appearance.
Filling the cupcake liners generously with layers of colorful batter creates that mesmerizing, playful effect. Once assembled, steaming over high heat cooks the cakes through evenly and allows them to puff up into beautiful domes.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
How to beat the eggs and sugar to achieve the lightest texture
Whisk at the highest mixer speed for a full 20 minutes until the mixture triples in volume and forms thick ribbons when lifted.
Tips for preventing condensation from ruining the cake tops
Always wrap the steamer lid with a kitchen cloth to absorb steam and keep droplets from falling onto the cakes.
Choosing the right food coloring for bright, consistent results
Use gel-based or high-quality liquid food coloring for vivid, even shades without thinning the batter.
Ensuring even steaming for perfectly risen cakes
Maintain a steady high heat and avoid opening the steamer during the first 15 minutes to ensure consistent puffing.
Can I use plant-based food coloring for a natural version?
Yes, beetroot, spirulina, and turmeric powders make excellent natural alternatives for coloring.
What can I do if my cakes don’t rise properly?
Check that the eggs and sugar were beaten long enough and that the steamer maintained high heat throughout cooking.
Can I use different types of flour like cake flour or rice flour?
Cake flour can be used for an even softer crumb, while rice flour offers a slightly chewier texture.
How long can I store steamed sponge cakes?
They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for up to four days.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these light and airy cakes with a warm cup of jasmine or green tea for a delicate, soothing balance that highlights their subtle sweetness.
For a vibrant platter, serve them alongside a selection of tropical fruits like mango, dragon fruit, and pineapple. The juicy freshness complements the softness of the cakes beautifully.
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a luxurious touch, making the cakes feel even more festive for special gatherings.
Creative Variations
Create an ombré effect by layering different shades of the same color from dark to light in each cupcake liner. This gradient look adds a touch of elegance.
Experiment with flavors by adding pandan, rose, or almond extracts to the batter for aromatic twists that match different themes or seasons.
Swap almond milk for rich coconut milk to introduce a tropical note, giving the cakes a creamier taste and a denser fragrance.
Colorful Steam Sponge Cakes are more than just a treat — they’re an experience of softness, sweetness, and joy. Their cheerful appearance and delightful texture make them a perfect addition to any celebration. With endless possibilities for color and flavor, these cakes invite creativity and promise to bring smiles with every bite.
Ingredients
3 eggs
2 egg yolks
325 g all-purpose flour
300–325 g sugar
200 ml almond milk (or any milk or coconut milk), mixed with 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2–3 food colorings of your choice
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar. Using a mixer on high speed, beat the mixture for about 20 minutes until it becomes thick, pale, and airy.
Reduce the mixer to low speed and gradually add the sifted flour, alternating with the vanilla-infused milk. Continue mixing just until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Add a few drops of different food colorings into each bowl, stirring gently until the colors are vibrant and evenly distributed.
Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil over high heat. Wrap the underside of the steamer lid with a clean kitchen cloth to prevent condensation from dripping onto the cakes.
While waiting for the water to reach a rolling boil, line the steaming molds with cupcake liners. Fill each liner completely with layers of the colored batters, creating a multicolored effect in each cup.
Once the water is boiling, carefully place the filled molds into the steamer. Cover with the cloth-wrapped lid and steam over high heat for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cakes are fully set and puffed up.
Remove the molds from the steamer and immediately transfer the colorful steam sponge cakes to a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy their soft, fluffy texture and cheerful colors.
Colorful Steam Sponge Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 325 g all-purpose flour
- 300 –325 g sugar
- 200 ml almond milk or any milk or coconut milk, mixed with 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 –3 food colorings of your choice
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar. Using a mixer on high speed, beat the mixture for about 20 minutes until it becomes thick, pale, and airy.
- Reduce the mixer to low speed and gradually add the sifted flour, alternating with the vanilla-infused milk. Continue mixing just until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Add a few drops of different food colorings into each bowl, stirring gently until the colors are vibrant and evenly distributed.
- Prepare a steamer by bringing water to a boil over high heat. Wrap the underside of the steamer lid with a clean kitchen cloth to prevent condensation from dripping onto the cakes.
- While waiting for the water to reach a rolling boil, line the steaming molds with cupcake liners. Fill each liner completely with layers of the colored batters, creating a multicolored effect in each cup.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully place the filled molds into the steamer. Cover with the cloth-wrapped lid and steam over high heat for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cakes are fully set and puffed up.
- Remove the molds from the steamer and immediately transfer the colorful steam sponge cakes to a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy their soft, fluffy texture and cheerful colors.
