The Yin and the Yang of Cakes

For every yin there is a yang. For each up there is a down. Balance is what keeps the world spinning and people semi-sane.

Which explains the reason for both Devil’s Food Cake and Angel’s Food Cake. Yin and yang of the cakes – opposite yet complimentary. Yet neither the devil nor heavenly angels have anything to do with either cake.

Angel’s Food Cake belongs in that light and oh so airy category of sponge cakes. What makes these cakes different is that they rely on massive amounts of eggs (and sometimes just the whites) for elevation; making them all the latest rage in the Renaissance period. It is believed that the Italians mastered the art of sponge cakes, winning the reputation as superior bakers world-wide. Naturally wealthy household in England and France sought to hire Italian culinary maestros. After all, they had reputations of their own to uphold.

Whatever the reason for the popularity of Angel Food Cakes, these light cakes continue to hold a place of honor in the dessert world. Today just happens to be National Angel Food Cake Day. Rather than wait until the end of the day to enjoy a slice of cake, I thought why not start our day that way. Care to join us?

Angel Food Cake French Toast
1 loaf Angel Food Cake
3 Eggs
1 cup Half and Half
2 teaspoons Cinnamon
1 teaspoon Nutmeg
Butter as needed
1 cup fresh Strawberries
1 cup fresh Blackberries
Powdered Sugar, optional
Syrup as desired

Trim ends from the Angel Food Cake loaf. Slice into 12 equal slices, set aside. Lay cake out to “dry” just a bit so it doesn’t become soggy when dipped.

Whisk eggs, half and half, cinnamon and nutmeg until well blended. Pour into a shallow bowl, set aside.

Warm a griddle to medium heat. Lightly oil or butter the griddle. While the griddle warms, clean, hull and slice strawberries. Clean the blackberries, set aside until ready to use.

Quickly dip each slice of cake into the custard batter. Place on the warm griddle to fry for about 2 or 3 minutes, until nicely toasted and browned. Flip cake slices over, continue to fry. Place a pat of butter on each slice just before removing from the griddle and allow butter to seep in.

Plate Angel Food Cake French Toast, garnish with berries. Dust with powdered sugar if using. Serve with syrup and more butter as desired.

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Glory in His holy name;
Rejoice, O hearts that seek the LORD!