CHOCOLATE ANGEL CAKE

This is a recipe I got from TOH. Here is a note from the lady who submitted the recipe: When I was married in 1944, I could barely boil water. My dear mother-in-law taught me her specialty - making the lightest angel food cakes ever. This chocolate version is an easy, impressive treat. For many years, it was our son's birthday cake.—Joyce Shiffler, Colorado Springs, Colorado

1-1/2 cups egg whites (about 10)

1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar

1 cup cake flour

1/4 cup baking cocoa

1-1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup sugar

Frosting:

1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup baking cocoa

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate leaves, optional

Place egg whites in a large bowl; let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Sift together confectioners' sugar, flour and cocoa three times; set aside.
Add cream of tartar and salt to egg whites; beat on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, about 2 tablespoons at a time, beating on high until stiff glossy peaks form and sugar is dissolved. Gradually fold in flour mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time.
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 375° for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned and entire top appears dry. Immediately invert pan; cool completely, about 1 hour.
Run a knife around side and center tube of pan. Remove cake to a serving plate.
In a large bowl, combine the first five frosting ingredients; cover and chill for 1 hour. Beat until stiff peaks form.
Spread over the top and sides of cake. Store in the refrigerator. Garnish with chocolate leaves if desired. Yield: 12-16 servings.