Light Italian sponge cake is the foundation for countless layered desserts and cakes. This essential mediterranean baking base is a family kitchen staple.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy unmolding.
Using a stand mixer, whip the eggs and granulated sugar together on high speed for 8 minutes, until tripled in volume and pale; this creates essential structure.
Gently sift together the flour, cornstarch, and salt, then fold them into the egg mixture in three stages with a flexible spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Add vanilla extract and lemon zest, folding just until incorporated to preserve as much air as possible.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake immediately for 25–28 minutes; monitor closely and avoid opening the oven during the first 20 minutes to ensure full rise.
Test doneness with a toothpick (should come out clean), then cool the cake upside-down in the pan for at least 10 minutes to prevent collapse and maintain light texture.