01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, granulated sugar, and salt. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed for 5-7 minutes until mixture is thick, pale, and tripled in volume.
03 - Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the batter.
04 - Evenly divide batter between prepared pans. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cakes are golden and spring back when lightly pressed.
05 - Remove cakes from oven and allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
06 - In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
07 - If desired, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on one layer of cooled cake.
08 - Spread half of the whipped cream over the base layer and arrange half of the sliced strawberries on top. Place second sponge layer over strawberries.
09 - Spread remaining whipped cream over the top layer and decorate with remaining strawberries. Garnish with mint leaves as desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.