Buying guide
How to Choose Sandwich Tins for Victoria Sponge
Diameter, depth, loose bases and materials: how to choose the tins a Victoria sponge needs.
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A "sandwich tin" is the British name for a shallow round cake tin, used in pairs to bake two layers that are sandwiched together. Most Victoria sponge recipes, including ours, are written for two 20 cm tins.
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We only list products once their specifications have been checked against the manufacturer or retailer. Until then, use the criteria in this guide to compare what's available.
Where to buy
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Buy them in pairs
Baking both layers at once gives even results and saves time. Many tins are sold in pairs, or check that single tins are the same model.
Diameter and depth
20 cm is the standard for a Victoria sponge. If you own a different size, use the cake tin converter to rescale. Depth matters too: tins of about 4 cm hold the batter without spilling over.
Loose base or fixed
A loose (push-up) base makes turning out a delicate sponge much easier. A fixed base with a paper liner works fine too.
Material
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Anodised aluminium | Heats evenly, won't rust, pale finish avoids over-browning | Usually hand-wash |
| Non-stick carbon steel | Easy release, inexpensive | Coating wears; avoid metal utensils |
| Silicone | Flexible, easy release | Floppy when full; slower browning |
Convert tin sizes
Multiply every ingredient by
1.00
Enter tin sizes between 5 and 60 cm.
Frequently asked questions
What size tins for a Victoria sponge?
Two 20 cm sandwich tins, about 4 cm deep. For other sizes, use our cake tin converter to rescale the recipe.
Can I bake a Victoria sponge in one deep tin?
Yes, but it takes longer and the top can dome. Split it in half once cool. Two sandwich tins give lighter, more even layers.
Do I need a loose-based tin?
It is not essential, but a loose base makes turning out a delicate sponge much easier. Otherwise line the base with baking paper.
How we choose
BeneRecipes compares products using manufacturer specifications and retailer listings, checked on the date shown next to each spec. We have not tested these products ourselves, and we don't publish star ratings. Our recommendations explain which option suits which kind of kitchen or table, and why.
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