Classic Angel Food Cake Recipe

Name: Classic Angel Food Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 150 min
Yield: 12 slices
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided); 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 1/2 cup egg whites (about 12 large eggs, at room temperature); 1 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

150 min 12 slices Medium

All Recipes

Light and airy homemade angel food cake with no fat, perfect for a guilt-free dessert.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

150 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Angel food cake is a classic, ethereal dessert known for its light and airy texture. This fat-free cake is made primarily from egg whites, sugar, and flour. The result is a delicately sweet treat that pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. The secret to a perfect angel food cake lies in the technique. Key steps include ensuring that your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks and gently folding in the dry ingredients to maintain their volume. Using an ungreased tube pan is crucial, as it allows the cake to climb the sides and rise properly.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare dry ingredients

Sift together 1/2 cup of sugar and the flour. Set aside.

Pro tip: Sifting ensures a light texture and prevents clumps.

Whip egg whites

In a large bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt on medium speed until foamy. Increase speed to high and gradually add remaining 1 cup of sugar. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Pro tip: Egg whites are ready when they hold a peak without drooping.

Add vanilla

Beat in vanilla extract.

Fold in flour mixture

Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg whites, 1/4 cup at a time, using a spatula. Fold until just incorporated.

Pro tip: Use a gentle folding motion to avoid deflating the egg whites.

Transfer to pan

Spoon the batter into an ungreased 25 cm (10 inch) tube pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Pro tip: The ungreased pan helps the cake rise by allowing the batter to cling to the sides.

Bake

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.

Pro tip: Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent deflation.

Cool upside down

Invert the pan immediately onto a bottle neck or cooling rack. Let cool completely for about 1 hour.

Pro tip: Cooling upside down prevents the cake from collapsing.

Release cake

Gently run a knife around the sides and center tube to release the cake. Remove from the pan.

Pro tip: A serrated knife works best to cut the cake without crushing it.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for maximum volume.
Always use an ungreased tube pan to help the cake rise properly.
Cool the cake upside down to maintain its texture.
Gently fold in flour to avoid deflating the egg whites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make homemade angel food cake?

To make homemade angel food cake, beat egg whites to stiff peaks, gently fold in sifted sugar and flour, and bake in an ungreased tube pan.

What pan should I use for angel food cake?

Use an ungreased 25 cm (10 inch) tube pan to help the cake rise properly.

Why do you cool angel food cake upside down?

Cooling upside down prevents the cake from collapsing and maintains its airy texture.

How do I cut angel food cake without crushing it?

Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to cut the cake without compressing it.

Can you make angel food cake ahead of time?

Yes, angel food cake can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your angel food cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dessert. Alternatively, a simple dusting of powdered sugar can highlight its delicate sweetness. To store, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Always cool the cake completely before storing to preserve its texture.

Nutrition per serving

150

Calories

Protein

Fat

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