Short answer: Yes, with a twist. Long answer: You have to lie to your cake. You must trick the flour into behaving. It’s like putting a husky in a tutu and hoping it dances ballet. It might work, but you need adjustments.
The golden rule: Never sub one-for-one by volume. Use weight for precision. But if you’re a rebel (like me), use a volume trick instead. For every one cup of all-purpose, remove two tablespoons. Then add two tablespoons of cornstarch. Why? Cornstarch reduces protein and mimics cake flour’s delicate soul.
The Cornstarch Conspiracy
This hack is genius. Cornstarch is pure starch. It absorbs moisture and prevents gluten formation. It’s like giving your flour a chill pill. Sift it together three times. Yes, three. Seriously. Sifting aerates the mix so it acts fluffy.
Funny fact: Cornstarch is also used to make diapers more absorbent. So you’re literally using diaper-grade tech for a better cake. Quirky, right? Your sponge cake will thank you.