How do you make foam cake?

Making a Foam Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Foam cakes, known for their airy and delicate texture, rely on whipped egg whites for their lightness. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a classic foam cake:

Ingredients:

* 4 large egg whites (room temperature)

* 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

* 1/2 cup granulated sugar

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

* 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

* Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

* Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. Whip the Egg Whites:

* In a clean, dry bowl, add the egg whites and cream of tartar.

* Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

* Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

* Add vanilla extract and beat briefly to combine.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

* In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. Gently Fold in Dry Ingredients:

* Add the dry ingredients to the whipped egg whites in three additions, folding gently with a rubber spatula.

* Be careful not to overmix, as this will deflate the batter.

5. Bake the Cake:

* Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

* Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Frost:

* Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

* Frost the cake as desired.

Tips for Success:

* Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature whip up better than cold eggs.

* Clean Equipment: Any grease or residue on your mixing bowls or beaters will hinder the whipping process.

* Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter will deflate the air bubbles and create a dense cake.

* Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so check the cake after 25 minutes to see if it's done.

Variations:

* Flavorings: Experiment with different flavor extracts, such as almond, lemon, or orange.

* Toppings: Add fresh fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips to your cake.

* Decorations: Use fondant, buttercream, or royal icing to decorate your cake.

Enjoy your light and airy foam cake!