Chiffon cake is known for its airy, delicate texture and subtly sweet flavor. Combining the lightness of a sponge cake with the richness of a butter cake, chiffon cake is the perfect choice for a delightful dessert that isn’t too heavy. This Easy Chiffon Cake Recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can achieve a cake that’s both elegant and delicious. Ideal for any occasion, this cake pairs beautifully with fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a light glaze.
Ingredients for Easy Chiffon Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup (180ml) water
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
How to Make Easy Chiffon Cake
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare an ungreased 10-inch (25 cm) tube pan. Chiffon cakes rely on the pan’s sides to help the cake rise, so it’s important not to grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Beat Egg Whites:
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should hold their shape but not be dry or over-beaten.
6. Fold Egg Whites into Batter:
- Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Once incorporated, fold in the remaining egg whites in two additions. Be gentle to avoid deflating the mixture.
7. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
8. Cool the Cake:
- Remove the cake from the oven and immediately invert the pan onto a cooling rack. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This helps the cake set and prevents it from collapsing.
9. Remove the Cake from the Pan:
- Once the cake is cool, use a thin knife to gently loosen the edges from the pan. Remove the cake from the pan by inverting it onto a serving plate.
10. Optional Glaze and Garnish:
- For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
- Garnish with fresh berries and whipped cream if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour:
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the chiffon cake. It’s versatile and suitable for most baking needs. Sifting the flour helps to aerate it, which contributes to the cake’s light texture.
Granulated Sugar:
Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also helps to stabilize the egg whites when beaten. It’s crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
Vegetable Oil:
Vegetable oil contributes to the moistness and tenderness of the cake. It helps create a soft crumb without adding any additional flavors.
Eggs:
Eggs are essential for both structure and moisture. The yolks add richness, while the whites are beaten to create the airy texture that defines a chiffon cake.
Baking Powder:
Baking powder is the leavening agent that helps the cake rise. It’s important to use fresh baking powder to ensure the cake achieves the correct texture.
Cream of Tartar:
Cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites during beating, helping them achieve stiff peaks and maintain their structure.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract adds a subtle flavor that complements the cake’s sweetness and enhances its overall taste.
Chiffon cake is a timeless dessert that combines lightness and flavor in a simple yet impressive way. This Easy Chiffon Cake Recipe allows you to create a beautifully airy and delicious cake with minimal effort. Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings for a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
