This light and airy cake gets its name from its incredibly soft and fluffy texture. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a simple afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- For the Frosting (optional):
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and oil.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually increase the speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting (optional): In a large bowl, cream together the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Increase the speed to medium and beat for 2-3 minutes until light and airy. Beat in the milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them with the buttercream frosting, if desired. Decorate as you like and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra fluffiness, sift the flour before measuring.
- Make sure the egg whites and mixing bowl are completely clean and grease-free for the best results when whipping the egg whites.
- You can use different flavorings in the frosting, such as lemon, chocolate, or strawberry.
- To make a layer cake, level the tops of the cooled cakes and stack them with frosting between the layers.
Enjoy your delicious and fluffy cloud cake!