Angel Food Cake
Angel food cake is a classic dessert known for its light, airy texture and subtle sweetness. Made primarily from egg whites, this cake is low in fat and perfect for those who enjoy a delicate treat. Whether topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or enjoyed plain, angel food cake is sure to impress at any gathering. Dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to create your own heavenly treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 12 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 10 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 35-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of angel food cake contains approximately 70 calories, 0g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g protein. This is based on a standard slice size of 1/10 of the cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, sift together the cake flour and half the granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the vanilla and almond extracts gently.
- Sprinkle the flour mixture over the egg whites and fold until just combined.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased tube pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when touched.
- Invert the pan to cool completely before removing the cake.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia for a lower-calorie version. Additionally, using fresh lemon juice instead of almond extract can provide a refreshing citrus flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Angel food cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover angel food cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply let it thaw at room temperature before serving, as it is best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Do not grease the pan; it needs to cling to rise properly.
- Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
- Be careful not to overmix when folding in the flour.
- Do not open the oven door during baking.
- Let the cake cool upside down to maintain its structure.
Helpful Tips
- Use a clean, dry bowl for whipping egg whites.
- Always sift the flour to avoid lumps.
- Experiment with different extracts for unique flavors.
- Top with seasonal fruits for added freshness.
FAQs
What is angel food cake made of?
Angel food cake is primarily made from egg whites, sugar, flour, and flavorings like vanilla and almond extract. Its unique texture comes from the whipping of egg whites, which creates a light and airy structure.
Can I make angel food cake in advance?
Yes, you can make angel food cake in advance and store it in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for later use, maintaining its quality for up to a month.
Why is my angel food cake dense?
A dense angel food cake can result from under-whipping the egg whites or overmixing the batter. Ensure to beat the egg whites to stiff peaks and fold in the flour gently.
Can I substitute the flour?
While cake flour is preferred for its low protein content, you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch. However, the texture may not be as light and fluffy.
How do I know when my cake is done?
The cake is done when it is golden brown and springs back when gently pressed. You can also check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Conclusion
Angel food cake is a delightful, airy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Its light texture and subtle sweetness make it a versatile treat that can be paired with various toppings. With this recipe, you can create a delicious cake that will surely impress your family and friends.
Angel Food Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 12 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, sift together the cake flour and half the granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the vanilla and almond extracts gently.
- Sprinkle the flour mixture over the egg whites and fold until just combined.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased tube pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and springs back when touched.
- Invert the pan to cool completely before removing the cake.
