Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of lightness and fluffiness found in traditional recipes. This cake is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a birthday celebration, a summer picnic, or simply a sweet end to a meal. With its airy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s an ideal canvas for toppings like whipped cream and fresh berries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy: The egg whites create a texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion or served with your favorite toppings.
• Naturally Gluten Free: Made without any wheat flour, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Low in Fat: A delightful dessert option that won’t weigh you down.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Gluten Free Angel Food Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick angel food cake pan
• Electric stand mixer or hand-held mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Blender or food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick angel food cake pan: Ensures easy release of the cake without sticking.
• Electric stand mixer: Saves time and effort when beating egg whites to perfection.
• Rubber spatula: Helps fold ingredients gently without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 3/4 cup gluten free baking flour blend WITH binder (see notes)
• 1/4 cup corn starch
• 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1-1/2 cups egg whites (~10-11 large eggs)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

For Serving

• whipped cream
• fresh berries

How to Make Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust oven racks to the top and lower third positions then preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Add the gluten free flour blend and cornstarch to a bowl. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly, then set aside.

Step 3: Create Super-Fine Sugar

Place granulated sugar into a blender or food processor. Blend briefly until it reaches a super-fine consistency. This helps it dissolve more easily in the batter.

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

In an electric stand mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment (or in a large glass bowl if using a handheld mixer), add egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt. Beat on medium speed for about 1 minute until foamy. Add vanilla and mix again.

Step 5: Incorporate Sugar Gradually

Lower the speed to medium-low while gradually sprinkling in the super-fine sugar. Once added, increase speed to medium-high, beating until glossy medium peaks form—approximately 3-4 minutes total.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour and cornstarch mixture in three parts, mixing just until combined after each addition.

Step 7: Scoop Batter into Pan

Use a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well mixed. Pour the batter into an ungreased nonstick angel food cake pan. Smooth out the top with an offset spatula. Bake for 45-47 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Upside Down

Immediately invert the pan over an empty bottle covered with foil (like an apple vinegar bottle). Let it cool completely upside down to maintain its height.

Step 9: Release from Pan

Once cooled, turn the pan right side up. Use a knife to run around both inside and outside edges before releasing the cake.

Step 10: Serve

Slice with a serrated knife into wedges and serve topped with whipped cream and fresh berries. Enjoy your light and fluffy Gluten Free Angel Food Cake!

How to Serve Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cake experience.

Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Simply wash and slice them to serve alongside the cake.

Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream provides a rich contrast to the cake’s texture. For an extra touch, you can sweeten it slightly with vanilla or sugar.

Fruit Compote

• A warm or chilled fruit compote made from seasonal fruits enhances the sweetness of the cake. You can prepare this by simmering your choice of fruits with a bit of sugar and lemon juice.

Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cake adds a decadent touch. Use a homemade or store-bought sauce for convenience.

Lemon Curd

• Bright and tangy lemon curd pairs well with the sweetness of the cake. Spread it generously on each slice for a zesty flavor boost.

Coconut Whipped Cream

• For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut whipped cream. It’s creamy and adds a tropical flair to your dessert.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Creating the perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binder for better structure.

• Whip Egg Whites Thoroughly: Ensure egg whites are whipped until glossy medium peaks form. This will give your cake its signature lightness.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch helps eliminate lumps and aerates the mixture for a lighter texture.

• Avoid Greasing the Pan: An ungreased pan allows the cake to cling while it cools, preventing collapse.

• Cool Upside Down: Inverting the pan right after baking prevents sagging as it cools down.

• Serve Fresh: This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Pairing side dishes with Gluten Free Angel Food Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad

2. A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, balancing out the sweetness of the cake.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

4. A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a classic combination that complements the lightness of the cake.

5. Yogurt Parfait

6. Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the fluffy cake.

7. Stewed Apples

8. Warm stewed apples spiced with cinnamon provide comfort and warmth alongside your dessert.

9. Meringue Cookies

10. Light meringue cookies echo the airy texture of angel food cake while adding an extra sweet crunch.

11. Chia Seed Pudding

12. This creamy pudding made from chia seeds offers a nutritious boost, pairing well with fruit toppings on your cake.

13. Nut Butter Dip

14. A creamy nut butter dip served with apple slices or pretzels offers both sweetness and crunch as a side treat.

15. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

16. These strawberries add elegance and indulgence, making your dessert spread feel extra special.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gluten Free Angel Food Cake, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using regular flour: Always use a gluten free baking flour blend WITH binder to ensure your cake rises properly and remains light.
• Not measuring egg whites accurately: Ensure you have about 1-1/2 cups of egg whites, which is roughly 10-11 large eggs. Inaccurate measurements can lead to poor texture.
• Overmixing the batter: After adding the flour mixture, mix only until combined. Overmixing can deflate the batter and lead to a denser cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Inverting the pan immediately after baking is crucial. Allowing it to cool upside down prevents sagging and helps maintain its airy structure.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly to 350°F. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking and collapse.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the original pan covered with plastic wrap if you prefer.

Freezing Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Ensure there’s no air inside the bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover loosely, and heat for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten Free Angel Food Cake.

Can I substitute egg whites with a vegan option?

While traditional angel food cake relies on egg whites for structure, you can experiment with aquafaba (chickpea brine) as an alternative. It may not yield identical results but can create a light cake.

How do I know when my cake is done?

The top should be deep golden brown, and you can test doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean without any wet batter.

Can I add flavors to my Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

Absolutely! You can add lemon zest or almond extract for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much liquid, as it could affect the cake’s texture.

What toppings work best with this cake?

Whipped cream and fresh berries make excellent toppings. You can also drizzle with fruit sauce or serve with a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing touch.

Final Thoughts

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is not only light and fluffy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with different flavors or toppings that suit your taste. This delightful dessert is perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home—give it a try!