Best Key Lime Angel Food Cake
This Key Lime Angel Food Cake is ultra-light, soft, and naturally fat-free. Made with fresh key lime juice and zest, it delivers a bright citrus flavor wrapped in a fluffy, cloud-like texture. Perfect for warm days, special occasions, or a refreshing dessert anytime.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup cake flour sifted
- ¾ cup superfine sugar divided
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 12 large egg whites room temperature
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup fresh key lime juice
- 2 tablespoons key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Light whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh lime slices
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Use an ungreased 10-inch tube pan.
- Sift the cake flour, half of the superfine sugar, and salt together three times. Set aside.
- In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites on medium speed until foamy.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue mixing until soft peaks form.
- Slowly add granulated sugar while increasing speed to high. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract.
- Fold the flour mixture into the egg whites in three additions, using gentle motions.
- Spoon the batter into the tube pan and smooth the top. Tap lightly to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top springs back when touched.
- Invert the pan immediately and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Once cooled, release the cake from the pan and slice with a serrated knife.
Notes
- Always use fresh key limes for the best flavor.
- Do not grease the pan, as the batter needs to cling to rise properly.
- Slice using a sawing motion for clean cuts.
Nutrition (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 22g