Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a light and airy texture, making it perfect for any occasion. This cake stands out with its fluffy consistency, which pairs beautifully with fresh whipped cream and berries. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer gathering, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy: The unique texture makes this cake feel like it’s floating on air, providing a delicate bite.
• Naturally Gluten Free: Made with gluten free ingredients, it caters to those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Topping Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with whipped cream and seasonal berries for added sweetness and color.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Low in Calories: At just 90 calories per serving, you can indulge without guilt!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Gluten Free Angel Food Cake, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Nonstick angel food cake pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: This tool makes whipping egg whites easy and ensures they reach the right consistency for the cake.
• Nonstick Angel Food Cake Pan: An essential for proper baking; it allows the cake to rise without sticking.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients gently, ensuring that the batter retains its airy texture.

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.

• 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 Flour Mixture

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: Beat Egg Whites

Add egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt to the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed (6/10) until foamy, about 1 minute. Add vanilla then beat to combine.

Step 5: Incorporate Sugar Gradually

Set the speed to medium-low (4/10) while slowly sprinkling in the super-fine sugar. Once all the sugar has been added, increase speed to medium-high (8/10) until glossy medium peaks form (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 6: Add Flour Mixture

Gently add the flour and corn starch mixture in three additions. Beat until just combined before adding more.

Step 7: Transfer Batter to Pan

Use a spatula for one final mix of the batter. Scoop into an UNGREASED nonstick angel food cake pan. Smooth the top with a spoon or offset spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake for 45–47 minutes or until golden brown. It’s better to slightly overbake than underbake as underbaking can cause collapse.

Step 9: Cool Inverted

Immediately invert the pan over a bottle (use an apple vinegar bottle covered in foil or any clean bottle). Let cool completely upside down; this helps maintain structure.

Step 10: Serve

Once cooled, turn pan upright. Run a knife around edges to release cake. Slice into wedges using a serrated knife. Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra treat!

How to Serve Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cake experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top slices of cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing that adds richness and creaminess.

Fresh Berries

• Add a medley of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top. Their natural sweetness and tartness complement the lightness of the cake perfectly.

Fruit Compote

• Serve warm fruit compote made from cooked down fruits like peaches or cherries. This warm topping contrasts nicely with the cool whipped cream.

Chocolate Drizzle

• A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over each slice adds a decadent touch. You can use dairy-free chocolate for a fully plant-based option.

Citrus Glaze

• Create a simple citrus glaze using lemon or orange juice mixed with powdered sugar. This brightens up the flavor and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a refreshing twist. Vanilla or coconut flavors provide an excellent balance to the cake’s fluffiness.

How to Perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

Achieving the perfect Gluten Free Angel Food Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Choose the right flour blend: Use a gluten free baking flour blend that contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture and structure.
• Beat egg whites correctly: Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them. This helps achieve maximum volume and fluffiness.
• Avoid overmixing: Once you add the flour mixture, be gentle and mix until just combined to prevent deflating the airy batter.
• Cool upside down: Invert the pan immediately after baking to prevent collapsing. Letting it cool upside down maintains its height and texture.
• Use an ungreased pan: An ungreased angel food cake pan is essential for the cake to cling to the sides, allowing it to rise properly during baking.
• Serve chilled: For an even more refreshing dessert, chill your cake in the refrigerator before serving, enhancing its lightness.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

To create a well-rounded dessert experience, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Gluten Free Angel Food Cake.

1. Coconut Whipped Cream
   Light and airy, this dairy-free whipped cream enhances the cake’s texture without overpowering it.

2. Lemon Sorbet
   A refreshing lemon sorbet offers a zesty contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of sweet cake.

3. Berry Salad
   A simple salad featuring mixed berries lightly tossed in honey or agave syrup adds freshness and complements the flavors of the cake.

4. Pineapple Salsa
   This tropical salsa made with diced pineapple, cilantro, and lime juice brings a vibrant pop of flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet cake.

5. Chocolate Mousse
   Light and fluffy chocolate mousse provides an indulgent touch alongside the airy texture of angel food cake; opt for a dairy-free version if desired.

6. Fruit Salad
   A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits keeps things light and healthy while adding natural sweetness alongside each slice of cake.

7. Peach Chutney
   Sweet and tangy peach chutney drizzled over each slice adds depth, making for an exciting flavor combination with the angel food cake.

8. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts
   Crunchy cinnamon roasted nuts provide texture contrast and nutty flavors that complement the delicate nature of angel food cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gluten Free Angel Food Cake, certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong flour blend: Not all gluten free flours are created equal. Make sure to use a gluten free baking flour blend WITH binder for the best texture.
• Overbeating egg whites: While you want the egg whites to be airy, overbeating can cause them to become dry and grainy. Stop beating when you achieve glossy medium peaks.
• Underbaking the cake: A cake that is underbaked may collapse once removed from the pan. Always bake until it is a deep golden brown, even if it means slightly overbaking.
• Greasing the pan: Greasing the angel food cake pan can prevent the cake from rising properly. Ensure you use an ungreased nonstick pan for best results.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool upside down is crucial. If you release it too soon, it may sag and lose its structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Gluten Free Angel Food Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gluten Free Angel Food Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place cake slices on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Gluten Free Angel Food Cake dairy-free?

You can easily make this cake dairy-free by using dairy-free whipped cream and ensuring that all ingredients are free from dairy products.

Can I use other sweeteners in my Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

Yes! You can substitute granulated sugar with other sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia, but keep in mind that these may alter the texture and taste slightly.

What is the best way to serve Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream and fresh berries. You can also add fruit sauces or chocolate drizzle for extra flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I customize my Gluten Free Angel Food Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors such as lemon zest or almond extract, or top it with different fruits based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Gluten Free Angel Food Cake is light, fluffy, and delightfully sweet—perfect as a dessert or special treat. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings or flavors according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!