Chocolate Sponge

You don't see many people bothering to make sponge cakes these days.  This recipe is one of my Mum's and I have to confess that it's been a long time since I made a sponge. Mum use to make excellent sponge cakes - and mostly in the Aga (wood stove).

So what's makes a sponge different to other cakes?  There's no butter for a start - that's why they are usually covered in jam and cream.  The way it is made is another.  Lot's of beating to add air to the mix and make them light.

Ingredients: 

• • 3/4 cup plain flour

  • 1 tsp cream of tartar

  • 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

  • pinch salt

  • 4 tsp cocoa powder

  • 4 tsp cornflour

  • 3 eggs

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1/2 tsp butter in half cup boiling water

Method:

• 1. Beat eggs and sugar for 15 minutes in the mixmaster

  2. fold in sifted dry ingredients

  3. quickly add the butter/water mixture

  4. pour into two small greased and floured sandwich tins

  5. bake 15 mintues in a moderate oven.

  6. fill and top with whipped cream and enjoy.