Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the light and airy essence of traditional cakes. Perfect for any occasion, this gluten-free version is incredibly fluffy, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or a simple family dessert night. Topped with whipped cream and fresh berries, this cake offers a sweet experience that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy Texture: The unique method of whipping egg whites creates a cake that’s impossibly light, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without feeling heavy.
• Versatile Topping Options: Serve this cake with various toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruits, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a personalized touch.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Gluten-Free Delight: This recipe ensures that those avoiding gluten can still indulge in a classic dessert without missing out on flavor or texture.
• Low-Calorie Sweetness: Each slice is around 90 calories, making it a guilt-free option to satisfy your cravings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools beforehand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick angel food cake pan
• Electric stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Blender or food processor
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick angel food cake pan: This pan allows the cake to rise beautifully and cool properly when inverted.
• Electric stand mixer: It provides consistent mixing power to achieve perfectly whipped egg whites, essential for the cake’s texture.
• Blender or food processor: Using this tool helps create super-fine sugar that dissolves quickly into the batter for even sweetness.

Ingredients

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is impossibly light and fluffy, just like the original! This sweet and simple cake is perfection topped with whipped cream and berries.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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 oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Add gluten free flour blend and cornstarch to a bowl then whisk to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Create Super-Fine Sugar

Add granulated sugar to a blender or food processor then blend/pulse briefly to create super-fine sugar. We’re not looking to make powdered sugar, but a finer sugar texture will dissolve faster in the cake batter than regular granulated sugar.

Step 4: Whip Egg Whites

Add egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt to the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or use a large glass bowl if using a handheld mixer). Beat on medium speed until very foamy, about 1 minute. Add vanilla then beat to combine.

Step 5: Incorporate Sugar Gradually

Set speed to medium-low while slowly sprinkling in the super-fine sugar. After adding all the sugar, increase speed to medium-high and continue beating until glossy medium peaks form (3-4 minutes total).

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and cornstarch mixture in three additions. Beat until just combined before adding more.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Use a spatula to stir the batter well. Pour into an UNGREASED nonstick angel food cake pan. Smooth the top with a spoon or offset spatula then bake for 45-47 minutes until deep golden brown.

Step 8: Invert Pan Immediately

Once baked, immediately invert the pan over a bottle (like an apple vinegar bottle covered in foil). Let it cool completely upside down.

Step 9: Release Cake from Pan

After cooling, turn the pan right side up. Run a knife around edges to release the cake. Slice into wedges and serve with whipped cream and fresh berries.

How to Serve Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs well with various toppings and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance its light and fluffy texture.

With Whipped Cream

• Top the cake generously with freshly whipped cream for a classic combination that adds richness and creaminess.

Fresh Berries

• Serve the cake alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Their natural sweetness and acidity balance the cake’s lightness beautifully.

Lemon Curd

• Spread a layer of tangy lemon curd on top for a zesty flavor boost. This adds a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an indulgent finish. This adds a rich, decadent touch to each slice.

Coconut Whipped Cream

• For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped cream. It imparts a subtle tropical flavor while keeping the dish light and airy.

Fruit Compote

• Serve with warm fruit compote made from stewed fruits like peaches or cherries. The warm sauce contrasts nicely with the cold cake, creating an inviting dessert experience.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Creating the perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake requires attention to detail in baking techniques. Follow these tips to achieve an airy and fluffy result.

• Use Finer Sugar: Blending granulated sugar before use helps it dissolve more easily in egg whites, yielding better volume and structure.

• Room Temperature Egg Whites: Allow your egg whites to come to room temperature before beating them. This enhances their ability to whip into stable peaks.

• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting gluten-free flour and cornstarch together helps aerate them, resulting in a lighter batter.

• Do Not Grease the Pan: An ungreased pan allows the cake to cling to the sides as it rises, preventing collapse during cooling.

• Cool Upside Down: Inverting the pan immediately after baking helps maintain the cake’s height by allowing it to cool in a suspended position.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in dry ingredients after adding them to prevent deflating the beaten egg whites, preserving their lightness.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Pairing your Gluten Free Angel Food Cake with complementary side dishes elevates your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a different texture while maintaining a sweet flavor profile.
3. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offers a delightful contrast when dipped into whipped cream or coffee.
4. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free ice cream enhances indulgence; flavors like vanilla or coconut work exceptionally well.
5. Chocolate Mousse: Light chocolate mousse serves as an elegant side that complements the angel food cake’s fluffiness.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa, providing added nutrition without overpowering the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Gluten Free Angel Food Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using the wrong flour blend: Not all gluten free baking blends work for this recipe. Make sure to choose a blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum or guar gum for the best texture.
• Skipping the sugar refinement: Failing to pulse the granulated sugar can result in a grainy cake. Blend it until it’s super-fine to help it dissolve easily in the batter.
• Not properly folding in the flour: Overmixing after adding the flour can deflate your egg whites. Gently fold in the flour mixture in three parts to keep it airy and light.
• Underbaking the cake: Removing the cake too early can lead to collapsing. It’s better to slightly overbake than underbake; aim for a deep golden brown top.
• Releasing the cake too soon: Letting the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan is crucial. If released prematurely, it may sag and lose its shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices for easy serving.

Freezing Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: This method is not recommended since it may dry out the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Gluten Free Angel Food Cake so light?

This cake achieves its light texture from whipped egg whites, which create air bubbles that expand during baking.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can experiment with other sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey, but note that this might alter texture and flavor.

How do I make a dairy-free version of this cake?

This recipe is already dairy-free! For toppings, use coconut whipped cream or another dairy-free alternative.

What can I serve with Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or fruit sauces. Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Can I add flavors like lemon or almond extract?

Absolutely! You can enhance flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract along with the vanilla.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is delightfully light and fluffy, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Its versatility allows for endless customization—from flavor additions to various toppings. Give this cake a try; you’ll love its airy texture and sweetness!