Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Do not grease your angel food cake pan. The batter needs to cling to the sides for proper rising.
In a bowl, sift together the cake flour and ¾ cup of the granulated sugar. This step is crucial for aeration.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Increase the mixer speed to high and gradually add the remaining sugar (1 cup). Continue beating until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
Gently fold in the vanilla extract into the whipped egg whites.
Sift the flour and sugar mixture over the whipped egg whites in three additions, gently folding after each addition. Be careful not to deflate the batter.
Gently pour the batter into the ungreased angel food cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
Remove the cake from the oven and invert the pan immediately. This helps the cake maintain its height as it cools.
Once completely cool, run a knife around the edges and gently remove the cake from the pan.