Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes
This light and airy Vanilla Chiffon Cake is perfectly complemented by a rich, fluffy whipped cream frosting, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Vanilla Chiffon Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the lightness of a sponge cake with the richness of a butter cake, resulting in a fluffy yet moist treat. Topped with a smooth whipped cream frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and airy texture that's simply delightful
- Rich, creamy frosting that complements the cake perfectly
- Versatile and perfect for any celebration or gathering
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
This Vanilla Chiffon Cake is a masterclass in texture and flavor. The combination of light, airy cake and rich, creamy frosting creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the cake's unique chiffon structure, which incorporates oil for moisture and egg whites for lift, resulting in a cloud-like cake that feels indulgent yet light.
The vanilla extract in both the cake and the frosting enhances the overall flavor profile, offering a warm, comforting sweetness that is sure to please. This cake can stand alone or be dressed up with fresh fruits, making it versatile enough for any occasion, from birthdays to elegant dinner parties.
Tips for Baking Success
To achieve the best results when making Vanilla Chiffon Cake, it’s important to ensure your egg whites are at room temperature. This helps them whip up to their maximum volume, creating that necessary lift in the cake. Additionally, make sure your mixing bowls and utensils are completely clean and free from any grease, as this can hinder the egg whites from reaching stiff peaks.
When folding the egg whites into the batter, use a gentle hand to maintain the airiness of the mixture. This step is crucial for that signature chiffon texture. Remember, the goal is to combine the ingredients without deflating the whipped egg whites, so take your time to do this patiently for the best results.
Serving and Storing Your Cake
After frosting your Vanilla Chiffon Cake with whipped cream, it can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for later. If you plan to serve the cake later, refrigerate it to keep the whipped cream frosting fresh and fluffy. Just be sure to cover it lightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
This cake can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, place the un-frosted cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator, then frost it with fresh whipped cream. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or special occasions, allowing you to enjoy homemade cake with minimal last-minute effort.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting.
For the Vanilla Chiffon Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to have everything ready before you start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake and frost your Vanilla Chiffon Cake.
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, water, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until thick. Gradually add them to the batter and mix well.
Whip Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into an ungreased tube pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Invert the pan onto a wire rack and let cool completely.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting
While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, remove it from the pan and frost the top and sides with the whipped cream frosting. Serve immediately or refrigerate until serving.
Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Chiffon Cake!
Why Chiffon Cakes Are Special
Chiffon cakes are unique because they bridge the gap between foam cakes and butter cakes, providing the best of both worlds. They are made with oil, which keeps them moist and tender, while the whipped egg whites give them a light and airy structure. This combination makes them a favorite among bakers looking for a cake that is both delicious and visually appealing.
Additionally, chiffon cakes are incredibly versatile. You can infuse them with various flavors, from citrus to spices, allowing for endless variations. This flexibility makes them a go-to choice for bakers who want to impress their guests without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Whipped Cream Frosting Variations
While this recipe features a classic whipped cream frosting, there are many variations you can try to customize your cake. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. You can also fold in some freshly grated lemon zest or pureed strawberries for a fruity touch.
If you're looking for a sturdier frosting that holds up better at room temperature, consider stabilizing your whipped cream. This can be done by adding a bit of gelatin or instant pudding mix, which will help maintain its structure and prevent it from wilting, especially in warmer climates.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.
→ How should I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
→ Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! This cake pairs well with buttercream or cream cheese frosting too.
→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Whipped Cream Frosting
This light and airy Vanilla Chiffon Cake is perfectly complemented by a rich, fluffy whipped cream frosting, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Family Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Vanilla Chiffon Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, water, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until thick. Gradually add them to the batter and mix well.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them.
Pour the batter into an ungreased tube pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Invert the pan onto a wire rack and let cool completely.
While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Once the cake is completely cool, remove it from the pan and frost the top and sides with the whipped cream frosting. Serve immediately or refrigerate until serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g