Lavender Angel Food Cake With Fresh Strawberries

LAVENDER ANGEL FOOD CAKE WITH FRESH STRAWBERRIES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• On a piece of wax paper, sift the powdered sugar and flour together 3 times. Stir in the lavender buds.
• In a large, chilled bowl on medium speed, beat the egg whites, cream of tartar and vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
• Sift 1/4 of the flour/sugar mixture over the beaten eggs. Fold in {{gently}}. Repeat, adding another 1/4 of the flour/sugar mixture at a time. Fold in gently each time.
• Transfer the cake batter to an ungreased 10" tube pan.
• Bake on the lowest rack in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
• Once the cake is done baking, invert but leave in pan. Cool thoroughly. Loosen sides of cake from the pan and remove to a cake platter.
• Top with your favorite fresh berries and add a dollop of whipping cream to each serving.

STRAWBERRY ANGEL FOOD CAKE

Steps:

• Wash and cut fresh strawberries into bite-size pieces. Freeze until ready to use.
• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

STRAWBERRY ANGEL CAKE

Steps:

• Combine strawberries and 1/4 cup sugar in a small bowl; cover and let stand 1 hour. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, milk, and cream cheese in a medium bowl; beat at medium speed of mixer til smooth.
• Cut cake horizontally into 3 layers using a serrated knife; place bottom layer, cut side up, on a serving plate. Brush with 1 tbsp liqueur (or orange juice), and spread half of cream cheese mixture over cake. Spoon one third of strawberries over cream cheese mixture using a slotted spoon. Repeat layers, ending with cake and liqueur (or orange juice). Spread whipped cream over top and sides of cake. Cover; chill 30 minutes.
• Arrange remaining strawberries on top of cake. Sprinkle with almonds, and serve.