The irresistible crunch of a Butterfinger bar meets the airy lightness of angel food cake in this surprisingly simple yet spectacular dessert. This recipe elevates the classic angel food cake to new heights of indulgence, creating a unique treat that's perfect for any occasion. Forget the ordinary – prepare for a taste sensation that's both unexpected and unforgettable!
What Makes this Butterfinger Angel Food Cake So Special?
This recipe isn't your average angel food cake. We're taking the delicate texture of the classic and infusing it with the rich, nutty, and chocolatey goodness of Butterfinger bars. The combination of light and airy cake with the satisfying crunch of the candy creates a delightful textural contrast that will tantalize your taste buds. We're not just adding Butterfingers on top; we're incorporating them into the cake itself for a truly immersive experience.
How to Make the Perfect Butterfinger Angel Food Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe requires careful attention to detail, particularly when making the angel food cake base. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfection:
Ingredients:
- For the Angel Food Cake:
- 1 cup cake flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (divided)
- 12 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- For the Butterfinger Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger bars
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). A tube pan (10-inch) is essential for this recipe – make sure it's ungreased and unfloured!
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the cake flour and 1/2 cup of the sugar together twice. This ensures a light and airy texture.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg whites in three additions, being careful not to deflate the batter. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Upside Down: Invert the pan immediately onto a wire rack and let the cake cool completely upside down. This prevents the cake from collapsing.
- Make the Butterfinger Topping: While the cake cools, melt the butter and mix in the crushed Butterfinger bars.
- Frost & Serve: Once the cake is completely cool, carefully remove it from the pan and frost the top with the Butterfinger mixture. Slice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other candy bars instead of Butterfingers?
Absolutely! While Butterfingers provide a unique flavor profile, you can experiment with other crunchy candy bars like Snickers, Heath, or even pretzels for a different twist. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change.
How can I store leftover Butterfinger Angel Food Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
The angel food cake component can be made a day or two in advance. However, it's best to add the Butterfinger topping just before serving to maintain the crunch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not inherently gluten-free. Cake flour contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you'll need to substitute a gluten-free blend of cake flour. Be sure to check the ingredients of your chosen Butterfingers as well, as some may contain traces of gluten.
What if my angel food cake collapsed?
Angel food cake is notoriously delicate. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease. Overmixing the batter can also lead to collapse. Make sure to follow the cooling instructions carefully to avoid this issue.
Elevate Your Baking Game with this Unique Dessert
This Butterfinger Angel Food Cake is a testament to the magic of unexpected flavor combinations. The contrasting textures and bold flavors make it a truly unforgettable dessert. Give it a try and prepare to impress your friends and family! Happy baking!
