Lemon Angel Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F (190 C).
2. 2
   Sift the flour onto a plate, then stir in the lemon zest and set aside.
3. 3
   Put the egg whites, salt and cream of tartar into a large bowl and beat until stiff but moist-looking peaks form.
4. 4
   Gradually add in the superfine sugar, a tablespoon at a time, and continue beating for 1 more minute.
5. 5
   Gently fold in the flour mixture using a metal spoon and a swirling figure-of-eight motion.
6. 6
   Pour into an 8-inch deep or 9-inch shallow nonstick angel food cake pan (there is no need to grease it first).
7. 7
   Bake until the cake is well risen and golden and the top springs back when pressed with a fingertip, 25 to 30 minutes.
8. 8
   Turn the cake, still in its pan, upside down onto a cooling rack and let cool.
9. 9
   As it cools, it will fall out of the pan.
10. 10
    To Make the Frosting:.
11. 11
    In a bowl, stir together the lemon curd and sour cream and spread over the top of the cooled cake.
12. 12
    Sprinkle with crystallized rose petals or flowers.
13. 13
    Makes 8 servings.
14. 14
    Note: To crystallize flowers, buy a sachet of dried egg white and mix it as instructed.
15. 15
    Let it cool, then brush the mixture over rose petals or viola, pansy or herb flowers.
16. 16
    Dust lightly with a little superfine sugar, let dry for 30 minutes, then use to decorate the cake just before serving.