Vanilla Chiffon Cake

Vanilla Chiffon Cake is a medium American recipe that serves 12. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person on YouTube.

Prep: 45 min | Cook: 1 hr 15 min | Total: 2 hrs 15 min

Cost: $50.73 total, $4.23 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cake flour (sifted)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (divided: 1/3 cup with dry ingredients, 2/3 cup folded into egg whites)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 7 units large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 10 units large egg whites (room temperature, clean bowl)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (helps stabilize whites)
  • 1 cup blackberries (for serving) (macerated with 1 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp lemon juice)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipped with a pinch of sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for macerating fruit)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for macerating fruit)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Set the oven to 325°F (165°C) and allow it to fully preheat.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 325°F

  2. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In the large mixing bowl whisk together cake flour, salt, baking powder, and 1/3 cup granulated sugar until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Create a Well and Add Yolks & Oil

    Make a well in the center of the dry mixture. Add the 7 egg yolks and 3/4 cup neutral oil. Begin whisking from the center outward, incorporating the flour gradually.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Incorporate Milk

    Add half of the milk (½ cup) and whisk until the batter looks smooth. Then add the remaining milk and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, whisking just until no dry spots remain.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Whip Egg Whites

    In a clean bowl, add the 10 egg whites, 1/4 tsp cream of tartar, and the remaining 2/3 cup sugar. Using the stand mixer on medium‑low, whip until the mixture becomes glossy, then increase to high speed and continue until very stiff peaks form.

    Time: PT15M

  6. First Fold

    Scoop about one‑third of the whipped egg whites and gently fold into the batter with a large spatula, using a cutting‑and‑lifting motion.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Second Fold

    Add another one‑third of the remaining whites and fold until just incorporated.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Final Fold

    Fold in the last third of the whites, stopping when the batter is almost streak‑free.

    Time: PT4M

  9. Prepare Pan & Transfer Batter

    Line the sides and tube of the 9‑inch tube pan with foil (to provide friction). Pour the batter in, filling about three‑quarters of the pan. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release large air bubbles.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Bake

    Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the top is golden‑brown and a cake tester inserted into the tallest part comes out clean.

    Time: PT1H15M

    Temperature: 325°F

  11. Cool

    Ideally invert the pan and let the cake cool upside‑down for 30 minutes. If foil prevents inversion, cool right‑side‑up on a rack for the same time.

    Time: PT30M

  12. Release & Serve

    Remove the foil, gently run a butter knife around the tube and bottom, then lift the cake out. Slice and serve with macerated blackberries and a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

    Time: PT10M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
4 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: vegetarian, contains gluten, contains dairy

Allergens: eggs, wheat, milk

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Vanilla Chiffon Cake

Recipe by Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person

A light, airy vanilla chiffon cake made in a tube pan. Inspired by a beloved Brooklyn bakery cake, this sponge‑style cake uses oil instead of butter and a mountain of whipped egg whites for lift. Serve with macerated blackberries and whipped cream for a simple yet elegant dessert.

MediumAmericanServes 12

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 28m
Prep
1h 15m
Cook
20m
Cleanup
3h 3m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$50.73
Total cost
$4.23
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whipping egg whites to very stiff peaks
  • Folding the whipped whites gently without deflating
  • Cooling the cake upside‑down (or using a pan with feet) to preserve height

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot oven and pan with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • When using foil inside the pan, ensure it does not touch the heating elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Vanilla Chiffon Cake in American bakery tradition?

A

Vanilla Chiffon Cake reflects the American adaptation of the Japanese chiffon cake, popularized in the 1970s for its light, airy texture. It became a staple in boutique bakeries, especially in Brooklyn, where the recipe draws inspiration from a beloved local cake shop. The cake’s use of oil and whipped egg whites showcases American innovation in creating a tender, moist crumb.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Vanilla Chiffon Cake in American cuisine?

A

In the Northeast, particularly New York, Vanilla Chiffon Cake is often served with fresh berries and whipped cream, while West Coast versions may incorporate citrus zest or matcha for a modern twist. Southern bakers sometimes add a light vanilla glaze, and Midwestern adaptations might include a simple powdered‑sugar dusting. Each variation reflects local taste preferences while preserving the cake’s airy structure.

cultural
Q

What is the authentic traditional way Vanilla Chiffon Cake is served in American dessert culture?

A

The classic American presentation of Vanilla Chiffon Cake involves slicing the cake into generous layers and topping it with macerated blackberries and a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. It is often served at room temperature to highlight its delicate crumb. Some bakers also drizzle a thin vanilla glaze for added shine.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Vanilla Chiffon Cake traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Vanilla Chiffon Cake is a popular choice for spring gatherings, brunches, and birthday celebrations across the United States. Its light texture makes it ideal for holiday luncheons such as Easter and Mother’s Day. Many American bakeries also feature it as a seasonal specialty during summer farmers‑market events.

cultural
Q

How does Vanilla Chiffon Cake fit into the broader American cuisine tradition of sponge cakes?

A

Vanilla Chiffon Cake occupies a niche in American sponge‑cake tradition by using oil instead of butter, which yields a softer crumb than classic pound cakes. It bridges the gap between the dense American butter cake and the ultra‑light Japanese chiffon, illustrating the United States' penchant for hybrid desserts. Its versatility allows it to be layered, flavored, or served plain, echoing the American love for adaptable sweets.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Vanilla Chiffon Cake versus acceptable substitutes?

A

The authentic recipe calls for cake flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, large egg yolks, vegetable oil, and a large amount of whipped egg whites for lift. Acceptable substitutes include using a gluten‑free cake flour blend for those with dietary restrictions, or swapping the oil for a neutral‑tasting melted butter if a richer flavor is desired. However, replacing the whipped egg whites with a commercial stabilizer can affect the cake’s signature fluffiness.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with Vanilla Chiffon Cake for a balanced dessert menu?

A

Vanilla Chiffon Cake pairs beautifully with a tangy lemon curd tart, offering a bright contrast to its sweet, airy profile. It also complements a rich chocolate mousse, creating a textural interplay between light sponge and dense mousse. For a seasonal touch, serve it alongside a warm apple crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Vanilla Chiffon Cake from the YouTube channel Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person recipe?

A

Common pitfalls include over‑beating the egg whites, which can cause the cake to collapse, and under‑mixing the batter, leading to uneven lift. Another mistake is opening the oven door too early, which disrupts the gentle rise. Finally, failing to invert the tube pan after baking can cause the cake to sink, ruining its airy texture.

technical
Q

How do I know when the Vanilla Chiffon Cake is done cooking and what texture and appearance should I look for?

A

The Vanilla Chiffon Cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, and the top is a pale golden brown with a slightly domed shape. The cake should feel springy to the touch and pull away cleanly from the sides of the tube pan. After cooling upside‑down, the cake will retain its lofty, feather‑light crumb.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person specialize in and what is its cooking philosophy for American desserts?

A

The YouTube channel Claire Saffitz x Dessert Person specializes in meticulously tested, approachable dessert recipes that blend classic American techniques with modern twists. Their philosophy emphasizes precision, ingredient quality, and making bakery‑level pastries accessible to home cooks. The channel often highlights the cultural backstory of each dessert, as seen in their Vanilla Chiffon Cake video.

channel

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