Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups egg whites (about 10)
  • 1 cup cake flour
  • 1-1/4 cups sugar, divided
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
  • Confectioners' sugar

Method

  • Let egg whites stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Sift the flour, 1 cup sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg together twice; set aside.
  • In a large bowl, beat the egg whites, cream of tartar, vanilla and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in remaining sugar, about 1 tablespoon at a time, on high until stiff glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved. Gradually fold in flour mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time. Fold in pumpkin.
  • Gently spoon into an ungreased 10-in. tube pan. Cut through batter with a knife to remove air pockets. Bake on the lowest oven rack at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until lightly browned and entire top appears dry. Immediately invert pan; cool completely, about 1 hour.
  • Run a knife around sides and center tube of pan. Remove to a serving plate. Sprinkle top of cake with confectioners' sugar.