Angel food cake, USA

 

Angel food cake, USA

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (298g) granulated sugar, divided
• 1 cup (112g) cake flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (about 10-12 large) egg whites, at room temperature
• 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Use a 10-inch ungreased tube pan. Do not grease the pan, as the batter needs to cling to the sides for proper rising.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of granulated sugar, cake flour, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine egg whites, cream of tartar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
2. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
3. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

1. Gently fold the flour mixture into the whipped egg whites in three additions. Use a spatula to fold carefully, ensuring not to deflate the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Spoon the batter into the ungreased tube pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for about 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
3. Remove from the oven and immediately invert the pan onto a wire rack or a bottle to cool completely upside down for about an hour.

Step 6: Remove from Pan

1. Once cooled, run a knife around the edges of the pan and gently remove the cake.
2. Place it on a serving platter.