Chiffon Cake is a light and airy dessert known for its soft texture and delicate crumb. It’s a versatile cake that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings and fillings.

Unlike traditional butter cakes, chiffon cakes are made with vegetable oil and whipped egg whites, giving them their characteristic fluffy and moist consistency.

This recipe will guide you through creating a classic chiffon cake that is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea.

Follow along to learn how to bake this delightful treat that will impress your family and friends with its lightness and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chiffon Cake

• 2 1/4 cups cake flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 large eggs, separated (at room temperature)
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Optional Flavor Additions

• Zest of 1 lemon or orange (for citrus flavor)
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for chocolate chiffon)

For the Chiffon Cake Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 10-inch tube pan (angel food cake pan) by lightly greasing the bottom only.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. If adding cocoa powder or zest for flavor, sift it in with the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined and smooth.

Step 5: Whip Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This will take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Fold Egg Whites into Batter

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in three additions. Use a spatula and be careful not to deflate the egg whites completely. The batter should be light and airy.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Immediately invert the cake pan onto a cooling rack (if your pan has feet, use those to elevate it) to cool completely. This helps the cake maintain its height and prevents it from collapsing.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

If desired, prepare a simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk or lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled chiffon cake.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once completely cooled and glazed (if using), slice the chiffon cake with a serrated knife. Serve slices on their own or with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Chef’s Note

Pan Preparation: Chiffon cakes rely on clinging to the sides of the pan to maintain their height. Only grease the bottom of the pan to ensure the cake climbs up the sides properly.

Egg Whites: Ensure that the egg whites are free of any yolk or grease, as even a small amount can prevent them from whipping up properly.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding citrus zest, cocoa powder, or other extracts to customize the chiffon cake to your liking.

Storage: Store leftover chiffon cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh due to its light texture.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Based on 12 Servings)

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 39g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 21g
• Protein: 5g

Key Nutrients

• Vitamin A: 6% DV
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 6% DV
• Potassium: 2% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. For more accurate nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients and quantities.

Conclusion

Chiffon Cake is a delightful dessert known for its light and airy texture, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

This recipe provides a straightforward approach to baking a classic chiffon cake that is both delicious and versatile.

Whether you enjoy it plain or with a simple glaze, chiffon cake is sure to be a hit with its delicate crumb and subtle sweetness.

Impress your family and friends with this elegant dessert and savor every bite of this delightful treat!

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