How to Make Taisan: A Filipino Chiffon Cake Delight

For Filipino food lovers, Taisan cake is definitely familiar. Taisan, a light and fluffy Filipino chiffon cake, is a dessert that is loved by many. Its soft texture and mild sweetness make it the perfect treat for any occasion.

In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps of making this classic dessert. You can try making it yourself at home because the method is easy and the ingredients are easy to find.

How to Make Taisan

To make Taisan (Chiffon Cake) is very easy. The ingredients used are also easy to get in traditional markets or purchased at minimarkets.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 6 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• 9-inch tube pan
• Parchment paper

Time to Cook

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 45-50 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Grease and flour a 9-inch tube pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites

1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy.
2. Gradually add the cream of tartar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and milk.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
2. Carefully fold the batter into the whipped egg whites in three additions, being gentle not to deflate the egg whites.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Video Example: youtube.com/@lutongtinapay2717

Tips

• Use room temperature eggs for best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as it can lead to a dense cake.
• Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the batter.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.

Nutritional Content

Per Serving (approximately 1 slice):

• Calories: 150-200
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 4-6g
• Fat: 5-8g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg
• Sodium: 50-70mg

Please note that this is an approximate nutritional analysis and can vary based on specific brands and quantities used.

Allergy Symptoms and Substitutes

Usually there are several ingredients that generally cause allergies in some people, such as the examples below.

Allergy Information

Taisan, as a classic chiffon cake, contains the following allergens:

• Eggs: The recipe heavily relies on egg whites for structure and leavening.
• Wheat: All-purpose flour is a common allergen and a key ingredient in this recipe.
• Milk: Milk is often used in the recipe, either directly or in the form of dairy-based butter or milk powder.

Substitute Ingredients and Alternatives

While it’s challenging to completely eliminate allergens from a recipe, here are some potential substitutions:

• Egg Whites: For those with egg allergies, consider using an egg replacer. However, this might affect the texture and taste of the cake.
• Wheat Flour: You can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but the texture and rise of the cake might be different.
• Dairy Milk: Plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be used as a substitute.

Important Note:

• Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice, especially if you¹ have severe allergies or dietary restrictions.
• When substituting ingredients, it’s recommended to test small batches to ensure the desired outcome.

By being aware of these factors and making informed choices, you can enjoy this delicious Filipino treat while managing potential dietary concerns.

Enjoy this classic Filipino dessert with a cup of coffee or tea. Happy baking!