Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Its light and airy texture makes it a perfect treat for celebrations, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. This cake stands out not only for its fluffy consistency but also for its versatility—it’s delicious on its own, yet pairs beautifully with whipped cream and fresh berries. Enjoy a slice of nostalgia with this gluten-free twist on a classic favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy: The unique method of whipping egg whites creates a cake that is incredibly airy and soft.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Toppings: Serve it with whipped cream and fresh berries or enjoy it plain for a lighter option.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is sure to impress.
• Gluten Free Delight: Enjoy the same great taste without gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Gluten Free Angel Food Cake successfully, you’ll need a few key tools. Each plays an important role in achieving the desired texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Angel food cake pan (nonstick)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These help achieve perfect peaks in egg whites, essential for the cake’s lightness.
• Angel food cake pan: Its design allows the batter to rise properly and cool upside down to maintain structure.
• Spatula: A flexible spatula ensures you gently fold in the flour mixture without deflating the egg whites.

Ingredients

To create your Gluten Free Angel Food Cake, gather the following 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

Begin by adjusting your oven racks to the top and lower third positions. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the gluten free flour blend and cornstarch. Whisk them together until well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Create Super-Fine Sugar

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

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), combine egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt. Beat on medium speed until foamy—about one minute. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 5: Incorporate Sugar Gradually

Reduce mixer speed to medium-low while gradually sprinkling in the super-fine sugar. After all sugar is added, increase speed to medium-high and continue beating until glossy medium peaks form—approximately three to four minutes total.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour and cornstarch mixture in three additions. Mix just until combined before adding more; avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Use a spatula to give the batter one final stir ensuring everything is evenly mixed. Pour it into an ungreased nonstick angel food cake pan and smooth out the top using a spoon or offset spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake in preheated oven for 45–47 minutes or until golden brown on top. It’s preferable to slightly overbake than underbake—it helps prevent collapsing.

Step 9: Cool Upside Down

Immediately invert the pan over a bottle—an apple vinegar bottle works great—allowing it to cool completely upside down.

Step 10: Release from Pan

Once cooled, right-side up the pan and run a knife around both inside and outside edges to release the cake easily. Slice into wedges with a serrated knife before serving topped with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Enjoy this delightful Gluten Free Angel Food Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries

• Top slices of the cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a mix of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Fruit Sauce

• Create a simple fruit sauce using pureed strawberries or peaches. Drizzle it over the cake for added sweetness and flavor.

As a Parfait

• Layer chunks of the cake with yogurt and fruits in a glass for an elegant parfait that’s perfect for brunch or dessert.

Accompanied by Chocolate Sauce

• Serve with warm chocolate sauce on the side. This rich pairing adds decadence to the lightness of the cake.

With Lemon Curd

• Spread lemon curd over each slice for a zesty twist that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• For a simple presentation, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving to add elegance and a touch of sweetness without overpowering flavors.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Making Gluten Free Angel Food Cake can be easy if you follow a few helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your cake turns out perfectly fluffy every time.

• Use Fresh Egg Whites: Make sure your egg whites are fresh and at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
• Sift Ingredients: Sift your gluten free flour blend and cornstarch together to incorporate air, which contributes to the cake’s light texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the flour mixture; overmixing can deflate the batter and result in a denser cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature; an oven that’s too hot can lead to uneven baking.
• Cool Upside Down: Invert the pan while cooling to prevent the cake from collapsing. This helps maintain its height and airy structure.
• Use a Non-Greased Pan: Ensure that your angel food cake pan is ungreased, as this allows the batter to cling to the sides while rising.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Pairing side dishes with Gluten Free Angel Food Cake can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some complementary options you might consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside creamy Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess that pairs well with sweet desserts.
3. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut whipped cream which adds richness without gluten or dairy.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option provides texture and additional flavor when served alongside slices of angel food cake.
5. Almond Butter Dip: A nut butter dip offers protein while complementing the lightness of the cake with its creamy consistency.
6. Granola Crumble: A crunchy granola topping brings texture contrasts, alongside adding nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel sauce can create an indulgent experience that enhances every bite of this light dessert.
8. Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea makes an excellent beverage choice to cleanse your palate after enjoying this sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Gluten Free Angel Food Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using regular flour: Always use a gluten free baking flour blend with a binder. This ensures the cake rises properly and maintains its light texture.
• Not whipping egg whites enough: Underwhipped egg whites will lead to a dense cake. Make sure they reach medium peaks for the best fluffiness.
• Adding sugar too quickly: Sprinkle in the super-fine sugar slowly while mixing. This allows for better incorporation and prevents deflating the egg whites.
• Baking on the wrong rack: Position your oven racks correctly. Baking on the top or lower third helps achieve an even bake and prevents burning.
• Removing the cake too soon: Letting the cake cool completely in the pan is crucial. If you remove it too early, it may collapse or sag.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap for easy access.

Freezing Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Freeze for up to 2 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Slice before freezing for quicker thawing.

Reheating Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered pan over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

You can experiment with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple sugar, but results may vary in texture and sweetness.

How do I know when my egg whites are ready?

Egg whites should be glossy and hold medium peaks when you lift the whisk. This indicates they are whipped enough for your cake.

What can I serve with Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

Whipped cream and fresh berries make great companions, but you can also try fruit compote or dairy-free ice cream.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for prepping in advance of special occasions.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe contains egg whites; however, you could try using aquafaba (chickpea water) as an alternative for a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that is light, airy, and perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings like fruit or dairy-free cream. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of bliss!