Castella (Kasutera) is a delicate Japanese sponge cake made with simple ingredients like eggs, sugar, flour, and honey. Originally introduced by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, it has become a beloved treat in Japan — known for its moist texture, fine crumb, and golden-brown top.
Ingredients
For a standard 9-inch loaf pan:
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp warm water
- 1 cup (120g) bread flour, sifted
- Vegetable oil (for greasing the pan)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper rises above the edges.
- Lightly grease the inside with vegetable oil.
Step 2: Make the Honey Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix honey and warm water. Set aside.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
- Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the sugar and whisk over a pot of simmering water (bain-marie) until the mixture is warm and sugar is dissolved.
- Transfer to a stand mixer and beat on high speed for 5–7 minutes until thick, pale, and tripled in volume.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add the honey-water mixture and beat for another 30 seconds.
- Sift the bread flour into the bowl in 2 batches, folding gently after each addition to avoid deflating the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Tap
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat oven to 320°F (160°C).
- Bake for 50–55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Rest
- Once baked, immediately cover the cake with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container.
- Let rest overnight to retain moisture and develop flavor.
Tips
- Use bread flour (not cake or all-purpose flour) for the correct chewy texture.
- Resting overnight gives the cake its signature moist texture.
- Slice with a sharp, warm knife to avoid crumbs.
Serving Ideas
- Serve plain or with green tea.
- Excellent as a light dessert or teatime snack.
- Can be topped with whipped cream or fruit for a modern twist.