Angel Food Cake
Indulge in the ethereal lightness of angel food cake, a classic dessert that is both elegant and simple. This fluffy treat is made primarily from egg whites, sugar, and flour, creating a cake that is airy and sweet. Perfect for celebrations or a light finish to any meal, angel food cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits and whipped cream. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 cup egg whites (about 8-10 large eggs)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 10 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 35-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (1/10 of the cake), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 70
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 0g
– Sugar: 12g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an ungreased tube pan.
- In a large bowl, whip egg whites until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue whipping until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in vanilla and almond extracts gently.
- Sift flour over the egg mixture, folding gently to combine.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and springs back when touched.
- Invert the pan to cool completely; this helps maintain the cake’s structure.
- Once cooled, run a knife around the edges to release the cake from the pan.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
Serving and Pairings
Angel food cake is delicious on its own but pairs well with fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it with a side of fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover angel food cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture; however, if necessary, wrap tightly in plastic wrap to preserve moisture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not beating the egg whites to stiff peaks can result in a dense cake.
- Using a greased pan will prevent the cake from rising properly.
- Overmixing the batter after adding flour can lead to a tough texture.
- Not inverting the cake while cooling can cause it to collapse.
- Forgetting to sift the flour can result in lumps in the batter.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature egg whites for better volume.
- Ensure no yolk is mixed with the egg whites, as fat will hinder whipping.
- Use a clean, dry bowl to whip egg whites for optimal results.
- Experiment with flavorings like lemon zest for a unique twist.
FAQs
What is angel food cake made of?
Angel food cake is primarily made from egg whites, sugar, and flour, resulting in its light and airy texture. It is a fat-free cake since it does not use egg yolks or butter.
How do I know when angel food cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Can I add flavors to angel food cake?
Yes, you can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor. Just be sure not to overpower the lightness of the cake.
How should angel food cake be served?
Angel food cake can be served plain or with toppings like fresh fruits, whipped cream, or fruit sauces. It is versatile and can complement many desserts.
Why is my angel food cake dense?
A dense angel food cake may result from under-whipped egg whites or overmixing the batter after adding flour. Ensure proper technique for best results.
Conclusion
Angel food cake is a delightful dessert that embodies lightness and sweetness. Its simple ingredients and airy texture make it a favorite among many. Whether served plain or with your favorite toppings, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the heavenly taste of this classic recipe!
Angel Food Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup egg whites about 8-10 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an ungreased tube pan.
- In a large bowl, whip egg whites until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue whipping until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in vanilla and almond extracts gently.
- Sift flour over the egg mixture, folding gently to combine.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and springs back when touched.
- Invert the pan to cool completely; this helps maintain the cake's structure.
- Once cooled, run a knife around the edges to release the cake from the pan.