When life hands you lemons, why not whip up a delightful Lemon Angel Food Cake? This light and airy dessert is the perfect indulgence for any sunny day or special occasion. The zesty lemon flavor combined with the fluffy texture of angel food cake creates a heavenly treat that’s sure to impress your guests or brighten up your day. So, let’s dive into this easy and refreshing recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
**Lemon Angel Food Cake Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup cake flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 cups egg whites (about 10–12 large eggs)
– 1 1/4 teaspoons cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prep:** Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven. Also, have an ungreased tube pan ready.
2. **Sift Dry Ingredients:** Sift the cake flour and 3/4 cup of sugar together in a bowl. Set this mixture aside.
3. **Whip Egg Whites:** In a separate clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Add cream of tartar and salt, then continue to beat until soft peaks form.
4. **Gradually Add Sugar:** Slowly add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar, about 1-2 tablespoons at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
5. **Fold in Flavorings:** Gently fold in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites too much.
6. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually sift and fold in the flour mixture into the egg white mixture. Do this gently until just incorporated, making sure not to overmix.
7. **Fill Pan:** Transfer the batter to the ungreased tube pan. Smooth out the top with the spatula to create an even surface.
8. **Bake:** Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is light golden and springs back when lightly touched.
9. **Cool Inverted:** Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and invert the pan onto a cooling rack. Let the cake cool completely in the pan upside down to prevent it from collapsing.
10. **Serve:** Once cooled, run a knife around the edges of the pan to release the cake. Gently remove it from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Slice and serve your delectable Lemon Angel Food Cake.
Enjoy the zingy flavors and airy texture of this Lemon Angel Food Cake on a sunny afternoon or as a sweet treat after dinner. The citrusy notes provide a refreshing twist to the classic angel food cake, making it a delightful dessert option for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful recipe that will surely brighten up your day!
