Best Key Lime Angel Food Cake Recipe | Refreshing Citrus Dessert
Light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor—this key lime angel food cake is the perfect refreshing dessert. Topped with whipped cream and lime zest, it’s ideal for spring celebrations, summer parties, or anytime you crave a sweet yet airy treat.
Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Fine zester and juicer
- Sifter
- Tube pan (ungreased)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 12 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 cup cake flour, sifted
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp fresh key lime juice
- 1 tbsp key lime zest
- Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Prep oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Whip egg whites: Beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Sift flour with remaining sugar. Gently fold into egg whites in batches.
- Add flavor: Fold in vanilla, lime juice, and zest carefully to avoid deflating batter.
- Bake: Pour batter into ungreased tube pan. Bake 35–40 minutes until golden and springy.
- Cool upside down: Invert pan immediately and cool completely before removing.
- Glaze (optional): Mix powdered sugar and lime juice. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Notes
- For maximum fluffiness: Ensure mixing bowl is grease-free and egg whites are at room temperature.
- Flavor boost: Use fresh key limes, not bottled juice, for the best citrus aroma.
- Make-ahead: Cake can be baked a day in advance; store covered at room temperature.
- Variations: Try coconut-lime, mini cupcakes, or sugar-free adaptations.
- Tip: Always cool cake upside down to prevent collapse.