Classic Angel Food Cake with Spiced Apple Compote

Named for its ethereal lightness, angel food cake is a classic American sponge that bakes tall in a tube pan. This version pairs the airy crumb with a buttery spiced apple compote scented with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serves 8 · 20 min prep · 55 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 285 cal
• 5g protein
• 58g carbs
• 4g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1 box (16 oz) angel food cake mix
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 4 medium apples
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch salt

Instructions

1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F and position a rack in the lower third. Prepare an ungreased 10-inch tube pan by ensuring it is completely clean and dry.
2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix with the water. Beat on low speed just until moistened, then increase to medium and whip for about 1 minute until the batter is smooth, glossy, and holds soft peaks.
3. 3Pour the batter evenly into the tube pan. Run a thin knife through the batter to release any large air pockets. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden brown and springs back lightly when touched, and a skewer inserted near the center comes out clean.
4. 4Immediately invert the pan onto a heatproof bottle or funnel and cool completely upside down for at least 1 1/2 hours so the delicate crumb sets without collapsing.
5. 5While the cake cools, peel, core, and dice the apples into even 1/2-inch pieces. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
6. 6Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt. Stir to coat, then cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and release juices that thicken into a glossy spiced syrup.
7. 7Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla. Taste and adjust spice if needed; the compote should be warmly fragrant and spoonable. Let it cool slightly so it remains warm but not scorching.
8. 8Run a thin knife the edges of the cooled cake and the center tube to loosen. Invert onto a serving plate and gently lift off the pan. Slice with a serrated knife using a gentle sawing motion.
9. 9Spoon generous warm spiced apple compote over each slice so it seeps into the airy pockets of the cake. Serve immediately while the contrast of cool cake and warm fruit is at its best.