In short: Bake sponge in a multicooker on the cake setting at 180 degrees for roughly 40–45 minutes, until it is golden and risen. The top stays pale and that is normal: only the base and sides are heated. Lift it out on the steamer rack by inverting the bowl.
Why it works at all
A multicooker is not only convenient for everyday cooking but a genuinely good option for baking. Even heating, a stable held temperature and well-distributed heat are exactly what a sponge needs, and the sealed bowl keeps moisture in.
Preparing the batter
Handle the whipped batter gently so it does not lose its aeration — the same rule as for an oven-baked sponge. Set the multicooker to the baking programme at 180 degrees and grease the bowl or line it with paper.
Baking
Close the lid and bake for approximately 40–45 minutes, or until the sponge is golden and has risen. Do not open the lid in the first half of that time: the drop in temperature will collapse the rise.
Why the top is pale
There is no top heating element in a multicooker. This does not affect the taste or the texture, and if the colour bothers you, turn the sponge out and brown the surface separately.
Getting it out
Let it cool, run a silicone spatula around the wall, then invert the bowl onto the steamer rack. Trying to lift a warm sponge straight out is how it breaks.
Frequently asked questions
Which setting should I use
The baking programme at 180 degrees. If your machine has no such setting, use the manual mode at the same temperature; the stewing programme will not raise a sponge.
Why is the sponge pale on top
There is no upper heating element. It has no effect on the result; brown it separately if you want colour.
How do I get the sponge out of the bowl
Cool it, loosen the edge with a silicone spatula and invert the bowl onto the steamer rack.