Meringue Cake

Prep: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A light and airy meringue cake with a rich vanilla flavor, perfect for special occasions or afternoon tea. The crisp meringue layers are complemented by a tender, buttery filling, making it a delightful treat for those who enjoy sweet, delicate desserts with a hint of elegance.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 4 egg yolks, beaten
  • 6 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • dash of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup flour

Instructions

  1. Sift together the flour and baking powder.
  2. Mix the ingredients in the order given: sugar, butter, beaten egg yolks, milk, vanilla, then gradually add the flour mixture.
  3. Pour the batter into two greased or parchment-lined cake pans.
  4. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter meringue cake, consider using egg whites instead of yolks to create a meringue layer. If you need to substitute ingredients, unsalted margarine can replace butter, and almond milk can work in place of regular milk. Ensure to beat the egg yolks thoroughly for the best texture. This recipe is a great base for variations like adding cocoa for a chocolate flavor or citrus zest for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meringue cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant dessert. It pairs beautifully with Heavenly Fluff for a rich, creamy contrast. For a delightful afternoon snack, enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving it with a side of Easy, Good Salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meringue cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Meringue Cake contains roughly 141 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).

141 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.2g 2% DV
Carbs 16.4g 6% DV
Fiber 1g 3% DV
Sugar 3.5g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1117.3mg 49% DV
Potassium 90mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 16.3mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.2mcg
Vitamin C 5.5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 145.2mg 11% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the meringue cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to frost it, wait until just before serving to add any icing or toppings, to prevent them from becoming soggy.

What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk in this recipe. Each alternative will impart a slightly different flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences. Make sure to use unsweetened varieties if you're watching sugar content.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top has a golden color. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking, as ovens can vary in temperature. If the edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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