Angel food cake is one of the most versatile desserts we know. It pairs perfectly with fresh fruit or a flavored whipped cream, is excellent with Seven Minute Frosting for a sumptuous no-cholesterol treat, and is unforgettable with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce.
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Don't grease or flour your angel food cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and 3/4 cup of the sugar. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites, salt, and extract. Beat until the mixture is just frothy, then sprinkle the cream of tartar on top and continue beating until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks.
Add the remaining sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, then gradually fold in the dry ingredients.
Spoon the batter into the pan, and bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it's golden brown and the top springs back when lightly touched.
Remove the cake from the oven, and set it upside down with a bottle through its center cone to keep its top from flattening on the counter. Let the cake cool for 1 1/2 hours. This cooling period sets the structure, and keeps the cake from collapsing.
Loosen the edges of the cake with a knife, and remove it from the pan.
Store the angel food cake, covered, on the counter for up to a week. Freeze, well wrapped, for up to 3 months.
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