Prepare to elevate your dessert game with this heavenly cake that’s as light as a cloud and just as dreamy. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will have your guests floating on cloud nine with every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cake flour and whipped egg whites ensures a texture so light, it’s like biting into a cloud.
- A touch of vanilla and almond extract adds depth to the flavor, making it irresistibly delicious.
- The simple syrup soak keeps the cake moist, ensuring every slice is perfect.
- It’s versatile! Dress it up with fruits or keep it classic with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour, sifted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 4 large egg whites, whipped to stiff peaks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 cup simple syrup (for soaking)
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Sifter
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease your 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your heaven cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly every time.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only removes lumps but also aerates the flour, contributing to that cloud-like texture we’re after.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually add this to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we’re all about that light, airy texture.
Fold in Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter. This step is crucial for achieving the cake’s signature fluffiness. Fold until no white streaks remain, but be careful not to deflate the egg whites.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back when lightly touched.
Soak with Simple Syrup
Once the cake is out of the oven and slightly cooled, poke holes all over the top with a skewer and gently brush with simple syrup. This step ensures your heaven cake stays moist and delicious.
Tips and Tricks
For an even fluffier cake, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping. This allows them to reach their maximum volume. Also, when folding in the egg whites, use a figure-eight motion to incorporate them evenly without deflating. Lastly, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought simple syrup, but homemade is always better for flavor control.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Heaven Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and substitute the almond extract with lemon extract for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Heaven Cake: Replace 1/2 cup of cake flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version that’s just as light.
- Berry Heaven Cake: Top the finished cake with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a fruity finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cake flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for the best results. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How do I store Heaven Cake?
This cake is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze Heaven Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Summary
This Heaven Cake is your ticket to dessert paradise. With its cloud-like texture and delicate flavor, it’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this cake is a heavenly treat.