Chiffon Cake
Chiffon cake is a delightful fusion of a sponge and butter cake, creating a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. This airy dessert is perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply a sweet treat at home. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this cake. Let’s dive into the recipe and impress your friends and family with this airy masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 7 large eggs, separated
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of chiffon cake contains about 220 calories, 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, 8g fat, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard slice from a 12-slice cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, oil, water, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar to the egg whites while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in three additions.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased chiffon cake pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Invert the pan and let the cake cool completely before removing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, substituting coconut oil for vegetable oil adds a unique flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, try using whole eggs instead of separating them.
Serving and Pairings
Chiffon cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a light glaze. For a twist, serve it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chiffon cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Chiffon cake can be frozen for up to three months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake.
- Not folding egg whites gently may deflate the batter.
- Using a greased pan can prevent the cake from rising properly.
- Skipping the cooling step can lead to a soggy bottom.
- Not preheating the oven can affect baking time.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the cup.
- Experiment with flavors by adding citrus zest or extracts.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the time is up.
FAQs
What makes chiffon cake different from sponge cake?
Chiffon cake is unique because it combines the richness of butter with the lightness of a sponge cake. This creates a moist and airy texture that is distinct from the denser sponge cakes.
Can I add flavors to my chiffon cake?
Yes, you can add flavors like lemon, chocolate, or almond extract to enhance the cake’s taste. Just incorporate them into the wet mixture before combining with dry ingredients.
Why is my chiffon cake dense?
A dense chiffon cake may result from overmixing the batter or not properly folding in the egg whites. Ensure gentle incorporation for a light texture.
Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a chiffon pan?
While a chiffon pan is ideal, you can use a regular cake pan. Just ensure it’s not greased and invert it after baking to maintain the cake’s height.
How long does chiffon cake last?
Chiffon cake can last up to three days at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Chiffon cake is a delightful dessert that combines lightness and flavor, making it a favorite for various occasions. With its easy preparation and versatile nature, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving suggestions as you make this airy treat a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Chiffon Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 7 large eggs separated
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, oil, water, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until foamy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar to the egg whites while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in three additions.
- Pour the batter into an ungreased chiffon cake pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Invert the pan and let the cake cool completely before removing.