Never-Fail Sponge Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. 2
   Set oven rack to second-lowest position).
3. 3
   Prepare an ungreased tube pan with removable sides.
4. 4
   Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt.
5. 5
   In a large bowl beat egg yolks until thick and lemon colored (this is important the egg yolks must be thick, the beating time should take about 5 minutes or more).
6. 6
   Add in sugar, vanilla and lemon juice; beat until thoroughly blended and no sugar granules remain (about 5 minutes).
7. 7
   Add in sifted flour mixture alternately with water; beat until just blended.
8. 8
   In a large stainless steel or copper bowl beat room temperature egg whites with cream of tartar until quite stiff; gently fold into the flour mixture.
9. 9
   Transfer to the ungreased tube pan.
10. 10
    Bake for 55-60 minutes.
11. 11
    Immediately turn the pan upside down and cool completely before removing.