Angel Food Cake Lemon Pie Filling Recipe You’ll Love
The smell of angel food cake baking brings back memories of my grandmother’s house. As a kid, I loved waiting for her lemon pie filling. It was a mix of tart and sweet that made me happy and comforted.
This Angel Food Cake Lemon Pie Filling Recipe is a treat. It brings back that homemade taste with a new twist. It’s a dessert that looks great and tastes even better, full of citrusy flavor.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Combines fluffy angel food cake with tangy lemon pie filling for a delicious dessert
- Only requires 2 store-bought ingredients: lemon pie filling and angel food cake mix
- Bakes in a 9×13 pan in just 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy recipe
- Serves 16 people, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations
- Customizable with various toppings and flavor variations to suit your preferences
Introduction to Angel Food Cake and Lemon Pie Filling
Angel food cake is a sponge cake known for its light and airy texture. It’s made with whipped egg whites, flour, and sugar. This cake is a delight for those who love a tangy lemon flavor with a sweet touch. Paired with a zesty lemon pie filling, it makes a refreshing dessert perfect for spring and summer.
What is Angel Food Cake?
Angel food cake is a sponge cake with a fluffy, cloud-like texture. It’s different from traditional cakes, which use butter or oil. Instead, it uses whipped egg whites for its structure. This makes the cake exceptionally light and airy, with a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth.
The Perfect Lemon Pie Filling
A tangy lemon pie filling is the perfect match for the light and airy cake. The lemon filling adds a burst of citrusy flavor. This balances the cake’s sweetness, making a refreshing dessert. Whether you make your own lemon curd or buy one, the mix of the light and airy cake and tangy lemon flavor will please your taste buds.
“The marriage of the light and airy cake and the tangy lemon flavor is a match made in dessert heaven.”
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
To make the perfect angel food cake lemon pie filling, you need a few key ingredients. Let’s explore what you’ll need for this tasty dessert.
Essential Ingredients for Angel Food Cake
- 16-ounce “just add water” angel food cake mix
- Water, as directed on the cake mix package
Key Ingredients for Lemon Pie Filling
- 21-ounce can of lemon pie filling
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Want to enhance your angel food cake lemon pie filling? Consider these optional ingredients:
- Lemon zest for a bright, citrusy kick
- Lemon extract for an extra layer of lemon flavor
- White chocolate chips for a creamy, indulgent touch
For a sugar-free version, use sugar-free whipped topping and fresh berries as a garnish instead of the lemon pie filling.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel Food Cake Mix | 16 oz |
| Lemon Pie Filling | 21 oz |
| Lemon Zest | To Taste |
| Lemon Extract | To Taste |
| White Chocolate Chips | To Taste |
| Sugar-Free Whipped Topping | For Sugar-Free Version |
| Fresh Berries | For Sugar-Free Version |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Angel Food Cake
Making a baked lemon pie with a fluffy angel food cake filling is rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create this divine dessert:
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large mixing bowl, mix the angel food cake mix with the lemon pie filling. Use a whisk to mix until it’s light and airy.
Mixing the Batter
Once the batter is ready, pour it into a greased 9×13 baking dish or a bundt cake pan. Make sure the mixture is evenly spread in the pan.
Baking the Cake
Put the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-33 minutes. The cake should be fluffy and cracked on top. This step is key for the perfect angel food cake filling.
After baking, let the cake cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This step lets the cake set and the flavors blend, making a delightful baked lemon pie experience.
The secret to a great angel food cake filling is careful preparation and baking. By following these steps, you’ll make a dessert that everyone will love.
Creating the Lemon Pie Filling
While this recipe uses store-bought lemon pie filling, you can make your own for a special tangy lemon flavor. Homemade lemon curd is made by cooking lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter until it thickens. This creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs well with the light angel food cake.
Cooking the Lemon Filling
Making your own lemon filling is easy. Just mix lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens like custard. This homemade homemade lemon curd can be used as the pie filling for your angel food cake dessert.
Comparing Store-Bought vs. Homemade Fillings
Store-bought lemon pie fillings are convenient because they’re ready to use. But, making your own lets you choose the ingredients and flavor. Homemade homemade lemon curd uses fresh ingredients for a more authentic taste.
“Homemade lemon curd is the way to go for a truly indulgent and flavorful lemon pie filling.”
Whether you choose store-bought or homemade lemon filling depends on what you prefer and how much time you have. Both can make your angel food cake with a tasty lemon twist.
Assembling the Cake with Lemon Pie Filling
Now that you’ve baked the fluffy angel food cake and prepared the luscious lemon pie filling, it’s time to bring them together. Layering the cake and filling creates a stunning presentation that will wow your guests.
Layering Techniques for a Beautiful Presentation
To achieve a layered look, start by slicing the cooled angel food cake horizontally into two or three even layers. Carefully transfer the bottom layer to your serving plate or cake stand. Using an offset spatula, spread a generous amount of the fluffy lemon custard over the top, ensuring even coverage.
Next, gently place the second cake layer on top of the filling, pressing down lightly to create a flat surface. Repeat the process, spreading more lemon pie filling over the second layer. If making a three-layer cake, add the final layer and top with the remaining filling.
Tips for Even Filling Distribution
- Use an offset spatula to spread the filling evenly across the cake layers, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture.
- Avoid overfilling the layers, as this can cause the cake to become unstable and the filling to spill out.
- If you have any leftover lemon zest garnish, sprinkle it over the top of the assembled cake for a beautiful finishing touch.
- Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze to enhance the presentation.
By following these techniques, you’ll create a stunning layered angel food cake with a luscious lemon pie filling. It will be the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Serving Suggestions for Your Dessert
After making your Angel Food Cake with Lemon Pie Filling, it’s time to enjoy it. The cake’s light texture goes well with the tangy lemon filling. It’s a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ideal Pairings with Angel Food Cake
For more flavor, try serving the cake with meringue topping or vanilla ice cream. The sweetness of these toppings balances the tartness of the citrus dessert. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries also add a burst of freshness and color.
Creative Serving Ideas for Lemon Pie Filling
- Spoon the lemon pie filling into tart shells or phyllo cups for a bite-sized treat.
- Use the filling as a topping for pound cake or shortbread cookies for an easy and delicious dessert.
- Layer the lemon filling between slices of angel food cake for a fun twist on a classic dessert.
- Serve the cake with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of fresh lemon curd for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
No matter how you serve your Angel Food Cake with Lemon Pie Filling, your guests will love it. Enjoy every bite of this bright and refreshing dessert!
Storing Leftovers and Maintaining Freshness
Enjoying a light and airy angel food cake with tangy lemon pie filling is just the start. Proper storage and preservation keep your treat fresh for longer. This way, you can enjoy every last bite.
Best Practices for Storing Angel Food Cake
Store your angel food cake at room temperature, covered tightly, for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it (without toppings or fillings) in an airtight container for up to 30 days. Thaw the cake at room temperature before serving for its light and airy texture.
How to Preserve Lemon Pie Filling
- Leftover lemon pie filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For the best results, it’s recommended to consume the cake within 1-2 days of baking to ensure the light and airy texture is maintained.
Follow these simple storage tips to enjoy the angel food cake and lemon pie filling for days. Enjoy every bite and share with family and friends!
Variations of Angel Food Cake and Lemon Pie Filling
The classic mix of angel food cake and lemon pie filling is a favorite. But, there are many ways to make it even better. Try adding new flavors and toppings to make your dessert special.
Flavor Infusions to Try
Make the lemon filling even more citrusy by adding lemon zest or extract. For a unique taste, use orange or lime instead of lemon. You can also try blueberry or cherry pie fillings to mix with the cake’s creamy lemon custard.
Seasonal Fruit Toppings
- Spring: Top the cake with fresh, juicy strawberries for a burst of sweetness.
- Summer: Arrange ripe, juicy peach slices or a medley of berries for a refreshing summertime treat.
- Fall: Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn by adding a layer of cranberries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Winter: Infuse the cake with a hint of warmth by garnishing it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of nutmeg.
There are countless ways to make this classic dessert your own. Let your taste buds explore and find your new favorite combination.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Creation
Recap of the Recipe Steps
Congratulations on making this amazing angel food cake with tangy lemon pie filling! You’ve learned how to make a light and airy cake base. And you’ve also made a homemade lemon filling that goes great with the cake. Together, they make a dessert that will wow your friends and family.
Encouragement to Experiment and Share
Now, feel free to try new flavors and toppings to make it your own. Angel food cake and lemon are a great combo for endless ideas. You could add vanilla or almond extracts, or try seasonal fruits for a unique twist. Most importantly, share your creations and enjoy the sweet and tangy mix in every bite.
This lemon angel food cake is easy and delicious for any time. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Don’t be shy to try new things and share your creations. Enjoy the sweet and tangy mix in every bite.