Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the granulated sugar in a food processor and pulse for about 2 minutes until it becomes superfine.
- Sift together half of the superfine sugar with the salt and cake flour; set the remaining sugar aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the egg whites, warm water, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cream of tartar. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute.
- With the mixer running on medium speed, gradually sift in the reserved superfine sugar and continue beating until the meringue reaches medium peaks.
- When the peaks are medium, sift a portion of the flour mixture over the foam and gently fold it in using a spatula.
- Repeat folding in the remaining flour mixture until it is fully incorporated.
- Carefully spoon the batter into an ungreased tube pan.
- Bake for 35 minutes, then test for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer halfway between the inner and outer wall; it should come out dry.
- Immediately invert the pan onto a cooling rack and let it cool upside down for at least 1 hour before removing the cake.
Nutrition
Notes
For best volume, ensure egg whites are at room temperature and free of any yolk. If you don't have cake flour, substitute 1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch, sifted together. The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely floral note. Cool the cake completely upside down to prevent collapsing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
