Angel Food Cake Recipe

Name: Angel Food Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup bleached cake flour (sifted); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (sifted and divided); 11 to 12 large egg whites (at room temperature); 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1/4 teaspoon fine salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; Optional: Whipped cream and fresh fruit for serving

Published: June 14, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and Fluffy Texture: The unique method of whipping egg whites gives this cake its signature airy quality.
Minimal Ingredients: With just 7 main ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and budget-friendly.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or elevate it with toppings like whipped cream, berries, or edible flowers.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual summer gathering or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers will find this recipe manageable and rewarding.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gathering the right tools can make your experience smoother. Here’s what you need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer with whisk attachment
9-inch ungreased tube pan
Mixing bowls
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer with whisk attachment: This tool helps achieve the ideal volume of egg whites for that perfect fluffy texture.
9-inch ungreased tube pan: The design allows for even baking and ensures the cake rises beautifully without sticking.

Ingredients

You only need 7 ingredients to make the BEST Angel Food Cake recipe! This cake is perfectly light, airy, and fluffy. Serve with homemade whipped cream and fresh berries for the best summer dessert. Check out all my baking tips below so you can make the perfect Angel Food Cake every time!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup bleached cake flour, (sifted (85 grams after sifting))
– 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar, (sifted and divided in half)
– 11 to 12 large (360 grams) fresh eggs whites, (at room temperature)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Edible flowers, fresh fruit,* etc. for garnish

How to Make Angel Food Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position.

Step 2: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Set aside.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

In a clean metal bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the room temperature egg whites on medium-low until they start to froth. Add in the cream of tartar and salt, then beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Sugar

Gradually add in the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar, one tablespoon at a time. Continue until all sugar is mixed in, resulting in a glossy mixture with soft peaks. Gently mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Flour Mixture

Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of flour/sugar mixture over the egg white mixture. Gently fold it in using a large rubber spatula. Repeat this step until all flour mixture has been gently combined.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan

Carefully scrape the batter into a 9-inch ungreased tube pan, smoothing out the top. Tap the pan against the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake your cake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and springy when pressed gently.

Step 8: Cool Upside Down

If your tube pan has prongs for lifting, invert it onto those prongs. Let it cool completely upside down for at least two hours.

Step 9: Unmold Carefully

To unmold, run a plastic or silicone knife around the edge without separating crust from pan. Slide out carefully and place bottom side up on your serving platter.

Step 10: Make Whipped Cream

In another bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip until soft peaks form. Spread generously over top of your cake.

Step 11: Serve

Use a sharp serrated knife to cut slices gently. This delightful Angel Food Cake should be served fresh on the day it’s made!

How to Serve Angel Food Cake Recipe

Angel food cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Angel Food Cake Recipe experience.

Classic Whipped Cream and Berries

Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair beautifully with the lightness of angel food cake. Top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a handful of berries for a classic summer treat.

Citrus Glaze

Create a simple citrus glaze by combining powdered sugar with lemon or orange juice. Drizzle this tangy glaze over the cake for an added zesty flavor that complements the airy texture.

Chocolate Drizzle

Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cake for a rich touch. This indulgent option is perfect for chocolate lovers looking to enhance their angel food cake experience.

Fruit Compote

A warm fruit compote made with seasonal fruits adds a delicious twist. Cook down fruits with sugar until soft, then spoon over your cake for a comforting dessert option.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

For a fun twist, use slices of angel food cake as bread for ice cream sandwiches. Add your favorite ice cream flavor and enjoy this refreshing treat on hot days.

Edible Flower Garnish

Decorate your angel food cake with edible flowers for an elegant presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle floral note to your dessert.

How to Perfect Angel Food Cake Recipe

Making the perfect angel food cake involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your Angel Food Cake Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

Use Room Temperature Egg Whites: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipping.
Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Always sift the flour and sugar before combining them with the egg whites; this helps create a lighter texture.
Avoid Greasing the Pan: Do not grease your tube pan, as it needs to cling to the sides to rise properly.
Gently Fold Mixtures: Use gentle folding techniques when combining dry ingredients with egg whites to maintain airiness.
Inversion Cooling Method: Invert the pan after baking to cool completely. This prevents collapsing and keeps the texture light.
Serve Fresh: Angel food cake is best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made for optimal flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Angel Food Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your angel food cake can enhance its flavors even more. Here are some great options that complement this dessert beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness alongside your cake.
Berry Sauce: A homemade berry sauce adds sweetness and tartness, making it an ideal topping.
Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing sorbet acts as a palate cleanser and pairs well with the lightness of angel food cake.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream, which adds a tropical twist.
Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio crumble provides contrasting texture while enhancing flavors.
Mint Leaves Garnish: Fresh mint leaves offer a burst of freshness when served alongside slices of angel food cake.
Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse contrasts nicely with the lightness of angel food cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream is always a hit, providing creaminess that balances the airy texture of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Angel Food Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Using unfresh egg whites: Fresh egg whites whip better, leading to a fluffier cake. Always use eggs that are at room temperature for optimal results.
Skipping the sifting step: Sifting flour is essential for a light texture. It helps incorporate air and prevents clumps in your batter, ensuring a delicate cake.
Overmixing the batter: Gently folding the flour mixture into the egg whites is crucial. Overmixing can deflate your batter, resulting in a dense cake instead of airy goodness.
Not inverting the pan: Allowing your cake to cool upside down helps maintain its height and prevents it from collapsing. Make sure to invert it immediately after baking.
Using a greased pan: An ungreased tube pan allows the cake to cling to the sides, helping it rise properly. Avoid greasing or lining the pan with parchment paper.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Angel Food Cake in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing Angel Food Cake Recipe

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Angel Food Cake Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover loosely and warm for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Angel Food Cake Recipe?

You can add flavors like almond extract or citrus zest for variety. Fresh fruits or chocolate chips can also be folded into the batter before baking.

Can I make Angel Food Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cool it upside down as mentioned earlier.

Why did my Angel Food Cake collapse?

This usually happens due to underbaking or using a greased pan. Ensure you bake until golden brown and let it cool upside down.

Is this an easy Angel Food Cake recipe?

Absolutely! With just seven ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners who want to impress their guests.

What’s the best way to serve Angel Food Cake?

Serve slices topped with homemade whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful summer dessert that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

The Angel Food Cake Recipe is not only light and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. This dessert lends itself well to customization, allowing you to experiment with flavors and toppings based on your preferences. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a sunny day, this cake is sure to please any crowd. Give it a try, and enjoy creating your own perfect version!

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