How do you bake a gluten and egg free spong cake?

This recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional sponge cake, perfect for those with gluten or egg allergies.

Ingredients:

* 1 cup (120g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it's specifically labelled "gluten-free")

* 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

* 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce

* 1/2 cup (120ml) dairy-free milk (e.g. almond, soy, rice)

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 2 tablespoons oil (e.g. vegetable, canola)

* 1 tablespoon lemon juice

* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.

2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, oil, and lemon juice.

4. Add wet to dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Fold in optional additions: If using, gently fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit.

6. Pour into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

7. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

* Flour is key: Use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking, as regular gluten-free flour may not have the same texture.

* Applesauce is your friend: It adds moisture and structure to the cake without eggs.

* Don't overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until combined.

* Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to ensure the center is cooked through.

* Get creative with frosting: Use a dairy-free frosting, such as whipped coconut cream, cream cheese frosting, or vegan buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious, gluten and egg-free sponge cake!