If you’re looking for a light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth cake, this Basic Chiffon Cake is the answer! The best part? It’s made without baking powder—relying entirely on whipped egg whites for its airy texture. This foolproof recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether as a standalone treat or as a base for layered cakes.
Why This Recipe Works
No Baking Powder Needed: Perfectly whipped egg whites create the rise.
Incredibly Soft: The chiffon cake is known for its cloud-like texture.
Customizable: Add your favorite flavors, like vanilla, citrus, or even coffee.
Beginner-Friendly: With a few simple techniques, you can master this cake!
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
50g milk
50g vegetable oil
5 large eggs, separated
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
84g cake flour
2g salt
Sugar (Divided):
20g (for egg yolk mixture)
50g (for meringue)
Additional:
2ml lemon juice (or white vinegar, to stabilize meringue)
How to Make Basic Chiffon Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare an ungreased 7-inch chiffon cake pan (do not grease, as the batter needs to cling to the sides to rise).
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and 20g of sugar.
Sift in the cake flour and salt. Mix until smooth and lump-free.
Step 3: Prepare the Meringue
In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with lemon juice using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Gradually add 50g of sugar in 3 additions, beating continuously until stiff peaks form (the meringue should hold its shape but still look glossy).
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Add 1/3 of the meringue to the egg yolk mixture and gently fold to lighten the batter.
Gradually fold in the remaining meringue in 2 additions, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the ungreased chiffon cake pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Immediately invert the pan onto a bottle or cooling rack to cool completely (this prevents the cake from collapsing).
Once cooled, use a knife to loosen the edges and release the cake from the pan.
Slice and serve plain or with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, fruits, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for the Perfect Chiffon Cake
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensures the egg whites whip to maximum volume.
Don’t Skip Folding: Gently fold the meringue to avoid deflating the batter.
Use the Right Pan: Chiffon cakes need a tube pan with high sides for support.
Cool Inverted: Always cool the cake upside down to maintain its height and fluffiness.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to mimic the lightness of cake flour.
Why didn’t my cake rise properly?
This could happen if the meringue wasn’t whipped to stiff peaks or was over-mixed when folding into the batter.
Can I make this cake in a regular pan?
It’s best to use a tube pan, but you can use a regular pan if you line it with parchment and adjust the baking time.
How do I store the cake?
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate if topped with cream.
Serving Suggestions
Classic: Serve with powdered sugar and fresh berries.
Decadent: Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Festive: Layer with fruit jam or lemon curd for a special occasion.
Timing & Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yield: Serves 8
Conclusion
This Basic Chiffon Cake is a classic that never fails to impress. Its light, airy texture and delicate flavor make it versatile for any occasion. With no baking powder required, the whipped meringue gives it that perfect lift. Whether you’re enjoying it plain or with creative toppings, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
So, grab your whisk and make this heavenly treat today! 🍰✨