MINT SPONGE BISCUIT

Ingredients

Mint Sponge Biscuit

4 eggs (4 items)
145 grams (5.10 ounces) sugar
45 grams (1.60 ounces) vegetable oil
125 grams (4.40 ounces) flour
1 teaspoon (1 teaspoon) baking powder
50 grams (1.75 ounces) mint

Equipment

Mixer
Essential for whipping the eggs and sugar into a thick, frothy foam. Make sure your mixer has both low and high-speed settings for optimal control.
Spatula
Great for gently folding ingredients together. Silicone spatulas work best because they're flexible and can scrape down the sides of bowls effectively.
Blender
Needed to grind the mint leaves and sugar into a smooth paste. Don’t have a blender? A food processor or mortar and pestle will also do the trick!
21-22 cm (8.3 to 8.6 inch) Mold
Perfect size for baking your sponge biscuit. A non-stick mold will make it easier to release the cake once it's done.

Instructions

Step 1

Today, we're making a delightful mint sponge biscuit. The challenge with mint desserts lies in balancing the mint flavor: too little and the taste is elusive, too much and it resembles toothpaste.

Step 2

You will need the following equipment: a mixer, a spatula, a blender, and a 21-22 cm (8.3 to 8.6 inch) mold.

Step 3

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

Step 4

2. Whip the eggs with 125 grams (4.40 ounces) of sugar until you achieve a thick, frothy mixture. Tip: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume.

Step 5

3. Gradually add the vegetable oil to the whipped eggs and gently mix with a spatula. Tip: You can add a few drops of green food coloring here for a minty hue.

Step 6

4. Sift the flour and baking powder together, then fold them into the egg mixture carefully. Mix until well combined, but don't overwork the batter.

Step 7

5. Finely chop the mint leaves and blend them with the remaining sugar until you get a paste-like consistency.

Step 8

6. Add the mint paste to the batter and gently fold it in until evenly distributed.

Step 9

7. Pour the batter into your prepared mold and bake for about 35 minutes. Check doneness with a wooden skewer; it should come out clean.

Step 10

8. Once baked, let the biscuit cool in the mold for a few minutes before removing it. Wrap it in cling film and let it rest in the fridge overnight. This helps the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Servings

Serving suggestions and ideas can really elevate this mint sponge biscuit from good to unforgettable! For a summer garden party, slice the biscuit and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint on each piece. You could also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Fancy something a bit more sophisticated? Drizzle a tangy lemon glaze over the top for a zingy contrast to the minty freshness. And for the brunch crowd, consider serving it alongside fresh berries and a lightly sweetened yogurt for a balanced, flavorful experience. As you serve, don’t forget to mention that the minty aroma is all-natural, thanks to the fresh mint used in the recipe!

Variations

For those who need a gluten-free option, swap out the flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure it’s a mix designed for baking to get the best texture. Vegans need not miss out either! Replace the eggs with a commercial egg replacer or use a mix of chia seeds and water (1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Additionally, swap out the vegetable oil for coconut oil to add a subtle tropical hint. These variations ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful mint sponge biscuit.

Faq

Why did my biscuit not rise properly?
Ensure you whipped the eggs and sugar long enough to form a thick foam, and always sift the flour to incorporate more air.
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?
While fresh mint is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried mint. Use half the amount, but note that the taste might be less vibrant.
How can I prevent my biscuit from sticking to the mold?
Ensure you properly grease the mold and consider using parchment paper at the bottom of the mold for easier release.
Can I add other flavors, like chocolate, to this recipe?
Absolutely! A swirl of melted chocolate or some chocolate chips can add a delightful twist to the minty flavor.
What’s the best way to store the mint sponge biscuit?
Wrap it in cling film and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
How can I intensify the mint flavor without making it taste like toothpaste?
Use high-quality, fresh mint leaves and grind them finely. Balancing the sweetness with additional sugar can also help maintain the minty freshness without it becoming overpowering.