National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Culinary Practice Exam

Which type of cake is traditionally made without any chemical leaveners?

1. Chiffon cake

2. Genoise cake

3. Pound cake

4. Sponge cake

The correct answer is: Pound cake

Pound cake is traditionally made without any chemical leaveners, relying instead on the air that is incorporated into the batter during the creaming of the butter and sugar, as well as the natural moisture in the eggs. The classic recipe for pound cake includes equal weights of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, creating a dense and rich texture. This denser quality and its method of preparation highlight its lack of chemical leavening agents such as baking powder or baking soda, distinguishing it from other cake types that commonly use these for a lighter, airier structure. In contrast, chiffon and genoise cakes incorporate leavening through either the use of baking powder (in the case of chiffon) or the incorporation of whipped eggs or egg whites to provide volume (as seen in genoise). Sponge cakes also rely heavily on whipped eggs and air for their rise and lightness, further differentiating them from the denser pound cake. The unique mixing method and ingredient proportions in pound cake solidify its identity as a classic cake made without any chemical leaveners.