What to Serve with Angel Food Cake – 8 Side Dish Idea
Angel food cake is a dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or just want something sweet and delicious, angel food cake is always a good choice.
But what should you serve with it?
We’ve all been there. You’ve got the cake, but what now? I remember one year, for my brother’s birthday, we had a small get-together at our house. My mom made her famous angel food cake, and let me tell you, the cake was to die for. However, I was so amazed that what actually took the cake from good to great to simply amazing was the side dish she served with it.
Truth be told, I always considered cake as something that didn’t really need a side dish, but after being wowed by my mom’s creation, I realized that the perfect side dish can really lift a cake to new heights.
So, what are some good side dishes for angel food cake? Here are a few of my favorites.
Side Dishes for Angel Food Cake
- Ham and Cheese Pie
- Bacon
- Cherry Cobbler
- Zucchini Bread
- Scones
- Tomato Soup
- Deviled Eggs
- Fresh Fruit
Ham and Cheese Pie
Firstly, ham and cheese pie is an excellent side dish for angel food cake! The savory flavors of ham and cheese complement the sweetness of the cake, and the creamy texture of the pie helps to balance out the airy texture of the cake.
Plus, the pie can be prepared in advance, which means that you can enjoy your cake without having to worry about last-minute preparation. To prepare the pie, simply combine ham, cheese, and eggs in a baking dish and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add some chopped vegetables, such as onions or peppers if you like. Frankly, the possibilities are endless!
In addition, ham and cheese pie can be enjoyed as a main dish or as an appetizer. From my experience, when served as an appetizer, it is best to cut the pie into small squares so that everyone can enjoy a taste. No matter how you serve it, ham and cheese pie is always a hit!
Bacon
I don’t know about y’all, but in my opinion, bacon makes everything better. So when I found out that you could put bacon on angel food cake, I was intrigued. Various questions swirled through my mind like, why does it go well as a side dish? How is this side dish prepared? What other ways can this side dish be utilized?
Nevertheless, what it all boils down to is that angel food cake may be traditionally served with whipped cream but, the addition of bacon takes this dessert to the next level. The smoky, salty flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet cake and fresh berries. Plus, the crispy texture of bacon provides a nice contrast to the soft cake.
If you’re interested in trying this delicious side dish, it’s easy to prepare and there are a few options to select from. You can fry the bacon in a pan, bake it in the oven, or even microwave it. Just be sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy. Then, simply crumble the bacon and sprinkle it over your slice of angel food cake. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Similarly, you can also use bacon bits or pancetta in place of cooked bacon for a similar flavor profile.
Either way, this unique side dish can also be used in other recipes. For example, you could top your pancakes or waffles with bacon and syrup for a delicious breakfast treat. Or you could add crumbled bacon bits on your desserts like strawberry shortcakes or ice cream.
Cherry Cobbler
If you’re lookin’ for a show-stoppin’ dessert that’s sure to impress, then you need to try out Angel Food Cake served with cherry cobbler! This heavenly combination is the perfect summertime treat and the oh-so-airy angel food cake is the perfect canvas for the fresh, juicy cherries in the cobbler.
Plus, the cobbler adds a nice crunch to the otherwise soft and fluffy cake. Trust me, your guests will be askin’ for seconds!
Now, I know what y’all are thinking, how do I make this delicious dish? Well, it’s easy as pie…er, cake! First, you’ll need to bake up an angel food cake according to the recipe or box instructions. While that’s bakin’, prepare the cherry cobbler filling. Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for a bit before spooning on the cobbler filling. Then, just pop it in the fridge to chill and you’re done!
Moreover, this dish can be served as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream on top. And if you’re feeling like a culinary star, you can go on to garnish it with some fresh mint leaves or chocolate shavings.
Zucchini Bread
Following behind cherry cobbler, zucchini bread is another fantastic option for those looking to spruce up their angel food cake. Perhaps unsurprisingly, some persons may be asking, what does zucchini have to do with cake? But trust me when I say that this combination is seriously delicious and definitely worth a try!
To be frank, the moist and dense zucchini bread pairs wonderfully with the light and fluffy angel food cake. Plus, the zucchini bread adds a lovely green hue to the otherwise white cake, making it even more aesthetically pleasing. Not to mention, the added veggies make this dish healthier than your average dessert!
Now, to make this side dish, simply follow your favorite zucchini bread recipe. Then, once the bread has cooled, slice it into thin pieces and serve alongside a slice of angel food cake. You can even add a dollop of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream on top for extra decadence.
Scones
Next up on this list are scones, and let me tell y’all about a little something I like to call scone-ceptional. That’s right, scones make a deliciously fun side dish for angel food cake, and they can even be used as toppings!
You see, the scones provide a lovely crunch to the otherwise soft cake. Plus, their flaky texture pairs perfectly with the fluffy angel food cake. They can be enjoyed plain or topped with butter, jam, or clotted cream. And for those who are feeling truly naughty, scones can even be dipped in chocolate sauce.
As for preparation, you can either buy scones from your local bakery or make them at home using your preferred recipe. Also, feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations like lemon, poppyseed, chocolate chip, and cranberry.
Just remember, when it comes to food, there are no rules. So go ahead and surprise yourself with new flavor combos!
Tomato Soup
Here is yet another unique and tasty option for those wanting to jazz up their angel food cake, tomato soup! And, I know what y’all thought process may be right now. You’re like, what in the world does tomato soup have to do with cake? But take my word for it, this pairing is seriously delicious and well worth a try.
Let me tell you, the rich flavor of this savory soup complements the sweetness of the cake, and the acidity of the tomato helps to balance out the richness of the buttercream frosting. The first time I tried this combination, I was truly blown away. So much so that I am now a bigger fan than ever of savory and sweet pairings!
Additionally, the soup can be prepared in a variety of ways, from a simple roasted tomato soup to a more complex and flavorful bisque. The simple matter is preparation is effortless and quick!
Not to mention, this dish is perfect for those chilly winter nights. Besides, you can also pair your yummy tomato soup with some grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy movie night in!
Deviled Eggs
Somebody once told me that the best way to eat an angel food cake is with deviled eggs as a side dish. I have to say, I was skeptical at first. But then I tried it, and let me tell you, it is heavenly! The rich, creamy yolks of the deviled eggs complement the light, airy texture of the cake perfectly.
Plus, the savory flavors help to offset the sweetness of the cake that just melts in your mouth.
And the best part? They’re super easy to make. Just hard-boil some eggs, then remove the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and a little bit of salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture into the egg whites, then garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or parsley.
Afterward, arrange the eggs on a plate and serve alongside a slice of angel food cake. Who knows, maybe you’ll even find yourself converting skeptics like me. 🙂
Fresh Fruit
Last but not least, I have fresh fruit! And what’s not to love about this classic side dish? It’s healthy, it’s refreshing, and it comes in a wide variety of colors and flavors. Plus, it pairs beautifully with angel food cake.
Generally speaking, the most popular fruits to pair with angel food cake are berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. But really, any fruit will do! So get creative and mix and match until you find your perfect match.
For example, try pairing angel food cake with mangoes and pineapple for a tropical twist. Or go for a more traditional route with apples and pears. Really, the sky’s the limit when it comes to fresh fruit. My only advice is to go wild and have fun experimenting!
FAQ
What do you cut an angel food cake with?
A serrated knife is the best tool to use when cutting angel food cake. You can also use an electric knife if you have one.
Can you freeze angel food cake?
Yes, you can freeze angel food cake! Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator.
Why is angel food cake healthier?
Frankly, angel food cake contains no egg yolk or butter, making it a healthier option. Hence, it’s low in cholesterol and saturated fats. What’s more, angel food cake is also a good source of protein!
Conclusion
Phew, there y’all have it! A list of my favorite side dishes for angel food cake, as well as a few FAQs. I hope this has been helpful in choosing the perfect side dish for your next slice of angel food cake.
And for what it’s worth, I think angel food cake is delicious no matter what you pair it with. But maybe that’s just me. 🙂 Either way, head to the kitchen right now and get cooking!