Angel food cake or Angel cake is a kind of sponge cake. The lack of fat and presence of soft wheat flour in angel food cake results in a very light texture. Therefore, a serrated knife should be used for cutting of angel food cake as a straight edged knife tends to compress it and the cake is not sliced properly.
History
Angel food cake originated in North America. Food historians have belief that in early times the angel food cakes were baked by African-American slaves from the Southern US. These cakes are traditional African-American favorite post-funeral meals.
Ingredients and Preparation
The main ingredients used for the preparation of angel food cake are soft wheat flour/ cake flour, egg whites, lemon juice, and cream of tartar (Stabilizer for egg white).
Angel food cake is generally baked in a tube pan. A bundt pan can also be used but there may be difficulty in releasing the cake because of its fluted sides. The angel food cake pan is not to be greased, unlike like other cake pans. This provides the surface upon which it crawls up and rise during baking.
Angel food cake usually has some sort of sauces like caramel or sweet fruit sauce as toppings. Sometimes they are served frosted. A simple glaze can also be applied. Many chefs have popularized the addition of aromatic spices such as mace and cloves to the cake.
Health and Nutrition Facts
Serving size – 1 Slice (28 g)
Approximate values per serving (Calories - 72 cal, Fat – 0.2 g, Carbohydrates – 16 g, Protein – 2 g, Saturated fat – 0 g, Cholesterol – 0 mg, Sodium – 210 mg, Sugars – 0 g)
Nutritional Benefits of Angel food cake
1. It is very low in saturated fats
2. It contains no cholesterol
3. It is high in phosphorus
4. It has no sugar
5. It is also a good source of Riboflavin
Health Benefits
1. Angel food cake is high in phosphorus which works together with calcium for building and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Phosphorus also helps in filtering waste from kidneys and maintains a balance of other vital minerals such as zinc and magnesium.
2. This cake Vitamin B12 (riboflavin) helps in lowering risk of heart diseases.
Disadvantage: Angel food cake is high in Sodium.
People suffering from hypertension should avoid Angel food cake because it is high in Sodium.