The legendary Tremble cake from Sword Art Online

In the world of Sword Art Online, food is more than just fuel — it’s a comfort, a reminder of humanity, and a way to connect in a place where so much was uncertain. One of the most mysterious desserts ever mentioned is the Tremble Cake, a fabled sweet that only appears briefly in the Aincrad arc of the manga. Described as so delicate it seemed to shake with each touch, it’s been left to the imagination of fans ever since.

That mystery is what makes this recipe so fun — it’s not officially written anywhere, so we get to bring it to life in our kitchens. Inspired by classic Japanese sponge cakes and strawberry shortcake, this Tremble Cake is light, fluffy, and layered with sweet strawberry flavor. Perfect for Asuna to serve in her tavern, or for you to enjoy at home.

Ingredients

Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Strawberry Syrup Compound:

• 1 cup strawberries, chopped
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp water

Buttercream Filling:

• Premade buttercream (or homemade: butter + powdered sugar)
• Strawberry syrup (from above)

Assembly & Decoration:

• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Whipped topping
• Whole strawberries for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Sponge Cake

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two round cake pans.
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
   • Gently fold in flour, taking care not to deflate the batter.
   • Stir in oil and vanilla until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly into pans and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
   • Let cool completely before assembly.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Syrup

   • In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and water.
   • Mash the strawberries as they cook, then let simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened into a syrup.
   • Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Flavor the Buttercream

   • Take your premade (or homemade) buttercream and fold in spoonfuls of the strawberry syrup until it reaches your desired flavor and color.

4. Assemble the Tremble Cake

   • Slice cooled sponge cakes horizontally if you’d like thinner layers.
   • Spread a layer of strawberry buttercream across the bottom layer.
   • Add sliced fresh strawberries over the buttercream.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and repeat if making more layers.
   • Frost the outside lightly with buttercream.
   • Pipe whipped topping underneath a ring of whole or halved strawberries on top for decoration.

Final Notes

The beauty of the Tremble Cake is in its simplicity. Just like in Aincrad, where food had to be earned and savored, this cake proves that just a few ingredients can create something magical. Customize the sweetness, the syrup intensity, and the decoration however you like — make it uniquely yours, just as Asuna might have in her tavern.