Name: Easy Angel Food Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cupcake flour; 1 cup granulated white sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 12 large egg whites ((at room temperature)); 1 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup blueberry pie filling ((optional))

Angel food cake is a delightful dessert that embodies lightness and sweetness, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. With its airy texture and subtle flavor, this cake is a favorite among those who appreciate a light dessert that doesn’t weigh you down. This recipe for Easy Angel Food Cake is not only simple to follow but also guarantees a delicious result that you can enjoy on its own or dressed up with toppings like fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Let’s dive into the world of angel food cake and discover how to make this classic treat.

Why This Easy Angel Food Cake Stands Out

This Easy Angel Food Cake stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly light and fluffy, thanks to the whipped egg whites that are the star of the show. Additionally, it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it a convenient option for spontaneous baking. The subtle hint of vanilla and almond extracts adds depth to the flavor, while the optional blueberry pie filling brings a burst of fruitiness that can elevate this cake to a whole new level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will not disappoint.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 cup cupcake flour
1 cup granulated white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
12 large egg whites (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup blueberry pie filling (store-bought or homemade – optional)

Equipment Breakdown

Mixing bowls: Use large bowls for whipping the egg whites and mixing dry ingredients.
Electric mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will help you whip the egg whites to the right consistency.
Angel food cake pan: A tube pan is ideal for this recipe, as it allows the cake to rise properly.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for gently folding the ingredients together.
Cooling rack: Essential for cooling the cake upside down to maintain its structure.

How to Prepare Easy Angel Food Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have your oven ready so that the cake can bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cupcake flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and sugar, ensuring a light texture.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until they become frothy. Then, increase the speed to high and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Flavor the Egg Whites

Once the egg whites have reached stiff peaks, gently fold in the vanilla and almond extracts. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites while mixing.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted flour and sugar mixture to the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together. Be patient and ensure that you do not overmix, as this can affect the cake’s airy texture.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan

Pour the batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan. Use the spatula to smooth the top gently.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately invert the pan onto a cooling rack. This allows the cake to cool completely without collapsing.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cake has cooled, run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan. Carefully remove the cake and serve it plain or with blueberry pie filling on top for a delicious twist.

Make It Fit Your Plan

Gluten-free: Substitute the cupcake flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Reduced sugar: Use a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup, if desired.
Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate other extracts or flavors, such as lemon or orange zest, to customize the taste.
Fruity variations: Instead of blueberry pie filling, try topping with strawberries, raspberries, or a fruit compote.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This Easy Angel Food Cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sauces. The cake itself is naturally low in fat since it doesn’t contain egg yolks or butter. This makes it a great option for those looking for a lighter dessert. When baking, make sure your mixing bowls and utensils are clean, as any grease can hinder the egg whites from whipping properly.

Shelf Life & Storage

To store your Easy Angel Food Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To serve after freezing, simply thaw at room temperature and enjoy!

Your Top Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

While cupcake flour is preferred for its fine texture, you can substitute it with cake flour. Just make sure it’s sifted before measuring to ensure the best results.

What can I use instead of cream of tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can use lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute. Use 1 teaspoon of either for every teaspoon of cream of tartar.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when it is golden brown and springs back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cake a day in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly to maintain its freshness and texture.

Bring It Home

Now that you have the recipe for Easy Angel Food Cake, it’s time to put on your apron and get baking! This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. With its light and fluffy texture, it’s a dessert that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings to make it your own, and enjoy the delightful experience of baking this classic cake from scratch. Happy baking!