Angel Food Cake

There’s something magical about a slice of Angel Food Cake. Growing up, my grandmother would bake it every Sunday, filling our home with a sweet aroma that felt like a warm hug. It was not just a dessert; it was a symbol of celebration, a light and fluffy masterpiece that danced on your palate. As a child, I would watch in awe as she whipped the egg whites to perfection, transforming simple ingredients into a cloud-like confection. Each bite was a delightful experience, often topped with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar, making it feel even more special. If you want to recreate that nostalgia, then this Angel Food Cake recipe is just what you need!

What You’ll Need for Angel Food Cake

To create the perfect Angel Food Cake, you’ll need a few key ingredients that work harmoniously together. The main star here is the egg whites, which give the cake its signature lightness. Coupled with the right amount of sugar, cake flour, and a few secret ingredients, you’ll have a cake that’s not just delicious but also a delight to behold!

• 9 large egg whites (about 1 1/4 cups, at room temperature) – The key to achieving that airy texture. Ensure they are at room temperature for the best results.
• 1 1/2 cups sugar (divided) – This sweetens the cake and contributes to the stability of the egg whites.
• 1 cup cake flour – A lighter flour that helps maintain the cake’s fluffiness.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons cream of tartar – This stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they hold their peaks while whipping.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Adds a comforting flavor that enhances the cake.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Powdered sugar and fresh berries (for serving) – Perfect for garnishing and elevating the presentation.

How to Make Angel Food Cake

Making Angel Food Cake is a rewarding experience. As you go through the steps, you’ll witness how simple ingredients transform into a light and fluffy cake. Let’s dive into the process and create something beautiful together!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This initial step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 cup of cake flour. Sifting not only combines the ingredients but also aerates them, which is crucial for a light cake.
3. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the 9 large egg whites, 1 1/4 teaspoons of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Beat these ingredients together until soft peaks begin to form. This is where your cake begins to take shape.
4. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Look for stiff peaks to form as you mix; this indicates that the egg whites are properly whipped.
5. Once the peaks are stiff, gently fold in the sieved flour and sugar mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate your whipped egg whites; the lightness is what makes this cake special!
6. Gently scoop the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan, ensuring that the batter is evenly distributed.
7. To remove any air bubbles, run a knife through the batter. This helps to achieve an even bake and a smooth texture.
8. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The cake should spring back when lightly touched.
9. Once done, turn the pan upside down to cool the cake. This prevents it from collapsing as it cools and keeps the texture fluffy.
10. When the cake is completely cool, run a knife around the edges of the pan to release it. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries before serving. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Expert Tips about Angel Food Cake

Creating the perfect Angel Food Cake can be a breeze with these expert tips! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, these insights will ensure your cake is a showstopper every time.

• Storage: If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the cake.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Angel Food Cake! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream and seasonal fruits like berries or peaches.
• Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding citrus zest or almond extract to elevate your cake.
• Serving Tips: Serve it on a beautiful cake stand; it makes the presentation even more appealing.

Perfect Pairings for Angel Food Cake

When it comes to serving your Angel Food Cake, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings to enhance your dessert experience:

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a perfect accompaniment, adding a burst of flavor and color.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the cake, making it feel more indulgent.
• Citrus Zest: A hint of lemon or orange zest sprinkled on top brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
• Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream.
• Tea Pairings: This cake is perfect for afternoon tea. It pairs well with light herbal teas or fruity infusions.
• Occasional Serving: Whether for birthdays, picnics, or family gatherings, Angel Food Cake is a wonderful option for any celebration.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Angel Food Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Its fluffy texture and light sweetness make it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking this delightful cake from scratch. It’s not just a treat; it’s a wonderful way to create memories and share love with those around you.

Angel Food Cake

The ultimate light and fluffy dessert, Angel Food Cake is perfect for any occasion. With its airy texture and sweet flavor, it’s a delightful treat that everyone will love. Serve it with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an impressive finish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Ingredients

  

• 9 large Egg Whites About 1 1/4 cups, at room temperature
• 1.5 cups Sugar Divided
• 1 cup Cake Flour
• 1.25 teaspoons Cream of Tartar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar For serving
• 1 cup Fresh Berries For serving

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This initial step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
• In a medium bowl, sift together 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 cup of cake flour. Sifting not only combines the ingredients but also aerates them, which is crucial for a light cake.
• In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add the 9 large egg whites, 1 1/4 teaspoons of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Beat these ingredients together until soft peaks begin to form. This is where your cake begins to take shape.
• Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of sugar, a few tablespoons at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Look for stiff peaks to form as you mix; this indicates that the egg whites are properly whipped.
• Once the peaks are stiff, gently fold in the sieved flour and sugar mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate your whipped egg whites; the lightness is what makes this cake special!
• Gently scoop the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan, ensuring that the batter is evenly distributed.
• To remove any air bubbles, run a knife through the batter. This helps to achieve an even bake and a smooth texture.
• Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. The cake should spring back when lightly touched.
• Once done, turn the pan upside down to cool the cake. This prevents it from collapsing as it cools and keeps the texture fluffy.
• When the cake is completely cool, run a knife around the edges of the pan to release it. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries before serving. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the cake.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Angel Food Cake! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream and seasonal fruits like berries or peaches.
• Variations: Experiment with flavors by adding citrus zest or almond extract to elevate your cake.
• Serving Tips: Serve it on a beautiful cake stand; it makes the presentation even more appealing.

Keyword Angel Food Cake recipe, Easy Cake Recipe, fluffy cake, light dessert