How do I bake a heavenly angel food cake?

Image showing the final output answering the question: how do I bake a heavenly angel food cake.

Experience cloud-like perfection with an ethereal angel food cake. From the light and airy texture to the delicate flavor, we'll guide you through the steps of creating this heavenly treat. Time to taste a slice of heaven!

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, how do I bake a heavenly angel food cake. Items include:  Granulated sugar  Cake flour  Egg whites  Cream of tartar  Salt  Vanilla extract  Almond extract
  • Granulated sugar 1 and 1/2 cups
  • Cake flour 1 cup
  • Egg whites 12 large
  • Cream of tartar 1 and 1/2 teaspoons
  • Salt 1/4 teaspoon
  • Vanilla extract 1 and 1/2 teaspoons
  • Almond extract 1 teaspoon (optional)

Take note
Be cautious when separating the eggs, as any trace of yolk can hinder the proper volume and texture of the cake. Also, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease.

1

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and make sure the rack is positioned in the center.

2

Gather your ingredients

Collect the following ingredients: - 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) of granulated sugar - 1 cup (120g) of cake flour - 12 large egg whites - 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of cream of tartar - 1/4 teaspoon of salt - 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract - Optional: 1 teaspoon of almond extract for added flavor

3

Sift and measure

In a large bowl, sift the cake flour and 3/4 cup of sugar together. Repeat this process twice to ensure a light and airy batter.

4

Whip the egg whites

In a separate, clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become foamy. Add the cream of tartar and salt, then increase the speed to high. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar while beating, until the egg whites form stiff peaks.

5

Add flavorings

Gently fold in the vanilla extract (and almond extract, if desired) into the whipped egg whites, being careful not to deflate them. It's okay to have a few streaks remaining.

6

Incorporate the dry ingredients

In three separate additions, gradually sift and fold the dry ingredients into the egg white mixture. With each addition, fold gently just until the dry ingredients are no longer visible. Overmixing can cause the cake to lose its airy texture.

7

Transfer to a pan

Pour the batter into an ungreased tube pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles.

8

Bake to perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and has turned golden brown.

9

Cool and invert

Remove the cake from the oven and immediately invert the pan onto a cooling rack. Allow the cake to cool upside down completely. This step helps prevent it from collapsing.

10

Release the cake

Once the cake has cooled, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen it. Gently remove the cake from the pan by lifting the removable bottom or by tapping the pan until it releases.

11

Serve and enjoy

Slice the heavenly angel food cake into beautiful portions and serve it as is or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries. Your light and heavenly creation is now ready to be savored!