Foam cake

A type of cake made with whipped egg whites

For the type of cake made with butter and flour, see Butter cake.

Angel food cake, a type of foam cake

Foam cake is a type of cake that relies on the air trapped in whipped egg whites to provide its structure and volume. Unlike butter cakes, foam cakes do not contain butter or oil, making them lighter and spongier. The most well-known example of a foam cake is the angel food cake.

Characteristics

Foam cakes are characterized by their light and airy texture. This is achieved by beating egg whites until they form stiff peaks, which are then gently folded into the batter. The lack of fat in the batter allows the cake to rise significantly during baking, resulting in a tall and fluffy cake.

Types of Foam Cakes

There are several types of foam cakes, each with unique characteristics:

Angel Food Cake

A slice of angel food cake

Angel food cake is a type of foam cake made with egg whites, sugar, and flour. It is known for its light, airy texture and is often baked in a tube pan to help it rise evenly. Angel food cake is typically served plain or with a light glaze or fruit topping.

Chiffon Cake

Chiffon cake is similar to angel food cake but includes a small amount of vegetable oil and baking powder, which gives it a slightly richer texture. It is also baked in a tube pan and can be flavored with vanilla, lemon, or other extracts.

Genoise

Genoise is a type of foam cake that originates from Italy. It is made with whole eggs that are beaten with sugar until thick and pale. The batter is then folded with flour and sometimes melted butter for added richness. Genoise is often used as a base for layered cakes and tortes.

Preparation Techniques

The key to making a successful foam cake is properly whipping the egg whites. The egg whites should be at room temperature and free of any yolk to ensure they whip to their full volume. A clean, dry bowl and beaters are essential to achieve stiff peaks.

When folding the egg whites into the batter, it is important to do so gently to avoid deflating the mixture. A rubber spatula is typically used for this process.

Serving Suggestions

Foam cakes are versatile and can be served in various ways. They are often enjoyed plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. For a more decadent dessert, foam cakes can be topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Related pages

• Butter cake
• Sponge cake
• Meringue