There’s something magical about the lightness and airy texture of an angel food cake. It’s as if each slice carries a whisper of sweetness, reminding you of fluffy clouds on a sunny day. I recall the first time I tasted this ethereal treat at my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of vanilla wafted through the air. She would whip up this cake for special occasions, and every bite felt like a gentle hug. Inspired by those cherished memories, I decided to create my own version of this classic dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or just a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
1 cup (120g) cake flour
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar, divided
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups (360ml) egg whites (about 10-12 large eggs)
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). An essential step for ensuring a perfectly baked cake.
In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, salt, and ¾ cup (150g) of the granulated sugar. This process not only combines the ingredients but also aerates the flour, making the cake lighter.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy. Gradually add the remaining ¾ cup (150g) of sugar while continuing to beat. Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form. This will take about 2-4 minutes.
Gently fold in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if using, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed without deflating the egg whites.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the flour mixture. Sprinkle it over the whipped egg whites in thirds, gently folding it in after each addition. Be patient and handle the mixture delicately to maintain the airiness.
Once the batter is combined, pour it into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
After baking, invert the pan immediately onto a cooling rack. This allows the cake to cool completely without collapsing. Once cool, run a knife around the edges and the center tube to release the cake. Gently remove it from the pan.
Serve the angel food cake plain, or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful touch. Each slice is a slice of cloud-like heaven, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring during a moment of quiet reflection.
Enjoy your heavenly creation!