When it comes to delightful desserts that capture the essence of the fall season, Pumpkin Angel Food Cake stands out as a light and fluffy treat that embodies the warmth of pumpkin pie spices. This unexpected twist on the classic angel food cake introduces a subtle hint of pumpkin, complemented by a luscious ginger whipped cream topping. Perfect for cozy gatherings during the holidays or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year, this recipe is a must-try for pumpkin enthusiasts.
Crafted from a simple boxed mix, this Pumpkin Angel Food Cake recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on convenience. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick mixing process, you can have this melt-in-your-mouth dessert ready in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe promises a delicious outcome that will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
Creating a scrumptious Pumpkin Angel Food Cake requires a few key components that blend together to form a delightful dessert. Below are the ingredients you’ll need for both the cake and the ginger-cream filling.
Cake
- 1 box (16 oz) Betty Crocker Angel Food Cake Mix
- 1 tablespoon Gold Medal all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 3/4 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 pint (2 cups) whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger
Equipment and Tools Required
To prepare this delicious Pumpkin Pie Angel Food Cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, you will need the following equipment and tools:
- Tube pan with a removable bottom or lined with parchment paper
- Stand mixer
- Medium mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Silicone spatula
- Parchment paper
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
Having these essential tools ready will help you efficiently assemble and bake this heavenly dessert. Be sure to gather all the equipment before starting to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Preparation Steps
Before diving into baking our scrumptious Pumpkin Angel Food Cake, let’s ensure we have everything ready to go from prepping the ingredients to baking the cake. Let’s start this culinary journey step by step!
- Angel Food Cake Mix: Measure out 1 box of Angel Food Cake Mix, ensuring it’s ready to be combined with the pumpkin for that perfect texture.
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: Get your hands on 15 ounces of canned pumpkin puree, ready to infuse that delightful pumpkin flavor into our cake.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Grab 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, adding that cozy, warm flavor to the mix.
- Unsalted Butter & Cream Cheese: Make sure to have ½ cup of unsalted butter and 6 ounces of softened cream cheese at room temperature for the delightful frosting.
- Vanilla Extract, Powdered Sugar, and Cinnamon: Have on hand ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 ½ cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to create the perfect cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
Directions
Creating a pumpkin angel food cake is a simple yet rewarding process. Follow these steps to make this delightful dessert.
Making the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease a 9-inch x 13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk the angel food cake mix with pumpkin pie spice.
- Stir in the canned pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center springs back when touched.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Preparing Ginger-Cream Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
- Chill the filling in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the ginger-cream filling evenly over the top.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
- Cut the cake into slices and serve to enjoy this delicious pumpkin angel food creation.
Cooking Method
Baking the Cake
To bake the Pumpkin Angel Food Cake, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If using a tube pan without a removable bottom, line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of sugar, pumpkin pie spice or Chinese five-spice powder, and cake flour.
- Whip the egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer until foamy.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and gradually add the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan, gently tap it on the counter to remove air bubbles, and smooth the top.
- Bake the cake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and springy to the touch.
- Remove the cake from the oven and immediately invert it to cool for at least 3 hours to prevent deflating.
- Once cooled, run a knife around the edges and remove the cake from the pan. Serve slices at room temperature.
- Prepare a delicious spiced whipped cream by folding together whipped topping, pumpkin pie spice, and powdered sugar.
- Spread half of the frosting on one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a decorative and flavorful touch.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Angel Food Cake
Achieving Fluffiness
For the perfect Pumpkin Angel Food Cake, achieving an airy and fluffy texture is key. Make sure to whip your egg whites until they form soft peaks to incorporate air into the batter. This step helps create a light and delicate cake that is characteristic of angel food cakes.
Serving and Presentation
How to Serve
When serving Pumpkin Angel Food Cake, carefully slice generous portions using a serrated knife to maintain the airy texture. Serve each slice on a dessert plate for a delightful individual experience.
Decorating Tips
For a beautiful presentation, dust the top of the cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice just before serving. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As an experienced food blogger, I know the importance of planning ahead and ensuring that your delicious creations can be enjoyed fresh for longer. When it comes to your Pumpkin Angel Food Cake, here are some handy make-ahead and storage tips to make your baking experience even more convenient:
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the Cake Ahead: You can bake the Pumpkin Angel Food Cake in advance to save time on the day you plan to serve it. Simply follow the recipe until the cake is baked but not frosted. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Freeze the Cake: If you want to enjoy your Pumpkin Angel Food Cake at a later time, you can freeze it. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and add the frosting before serving.
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to consume the cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Place the frosted cake in a cake dome or cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Ensure it is kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain its freshness.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended. Place the frosted cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Remember to take the cake out at least 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature for the best taste and texture.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy your Pumpkin Angel Food Cake fresh and delicious, whether serving it for a special occasion or as a delightful treat throughout the week.
Conclusion
Creating a Pumpkin Angel Food Cake is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall in a light and airy dessert. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, anyone can enjoy the scrumptious taste of this cake. The ginger-cream filling adds a luxurious touch, making each bite a truly indulgent experience. Remember to whip those egg whites until soft peaks form for that perfect fluffy texture. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this Pumpkin Angel Food Cake is sure to impress with its delicate flavor and elegant presentation. So why not try your hand at making this heavenly dessert and delight your taste buds with a slice of pumpkin perfection?