Heaven and Hell Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances light and rich flavors. This classic treat combines the airy sweetness of angel food cake with the deep, indulgent taste of devil’s food cake. It’s a showstopper for any occasion and a favorite among those who love a little contrast in their sweets.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Heaven and Hell Cake, we need to gather all essential ingredients for both the cake layers and the frosting. Each component plays a key role in balancing the airy angel food with the decadent devil’s food flavors.
Cake Ingredients
For the heavenly lightness and hellish richness, here are the ingredients for the two distinct cake layers:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Egg whites | 12 large | Room temperature, for angel food |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups | Divided: 3/4 cup and 3/4 cup |
| Cake flour | 1 cup | Sifted |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | For angel food cake |
| Cream of tartar | 1 ½ teaspoons | Stabilizes egg whites |
| Cocoa powder | ¾ cup | Unsweetened, for devil’s food |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | For devil’s food |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ teaspoons | Leavening for devil’s food cake |
| Baking soda | ¾ teaspoon | Enhances devil’s food cake rise |
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup | Melted, cooled |
| Buttermilk | ¾ cup | Room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | For devil’s food cake |
| Eggs | 3 large | For devil’s food cake |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancer |
Frosting Ingredients
Our Heaven and Hell Cake needs a luscious frosting to unite the two layers perfectly. Here’s what we use:
- Unsalted butter — 1 cup, softened
- Powdered sugar — 4 cups, sifted
- Cocoa powder — ½ cup, unsweetened (for chocolate frosting)
- Cream cheese — 8 oz, softened (optional for tangy creaminess)
- Heavy cream — ¼ cup (adjust for desired consistency)
- Vanilla extract — 2 teaspoons
- Salt — A pinch, to balance sweetness
All ingredients are carefully measured and prepared to bring out the contrasting yet complementary essence fundamental to this cake’s signature taste.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Heaven and Hell Cake, having the right equipment is crucial for seamless preparation and flawless results. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools we need to bring this delicious dessert to life.
Essential Baking Tools
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
We need these to bake the separate angel food and devil’s food cake layers evenly.
- Mixing bowls (at least 2)
One for the devil’s food cake batter and one for the angel food cake batter.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
A must-have for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks for the angel food layer and mixing the devil’s food batter smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precision is key in baking. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Sifter
We sift dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar to avoid lumps and ensure a tender crumb.
- Rubber spatulas and wooden spoons
For folding the delicate egg whites into the batter without deflating them.
- Cooling racks
Proper cooling is essential to prevent sogginess and maintain texture.
Additional Tools for Frosting and Decoration
- Offset spatula
This helps us spread the frosting evenly across the cake layers with a professional finish.
- Piping bags and tips (optional)
For decorative frosting details, we can use piping bags to create beautiful designs.
- Cake board or serving platter
To assemble and display our stunning Heaven and Hell Cake.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch round cake pans | Bake angel food and devil’s food cake layers |
| Mixing bowls | Prepare separate batters |
| Electric or stand mixer | Whip egg whites and mix cake batter |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Sifter | Remove lumps and aerate dry ingredients |
| Rubber spatulas | Fold batters gently |
| Cooling racks | Allow cake layers to cool properly |
| Offset spatula | Smooth frosting application |
| Piping bags and tips | Optional decoration |
| Cake board/serving platter | Cake assembly and presentation |
Having this equipment setup ensures we achieve the ideal texture and flavor contrast that makes the Heaven and Hell Cake truly memorable.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create the perfect Heaven and Hell Cake that beautifully merges lightness with richness for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Prep Work
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for both cake layers to ensure even baking.
- Grease two 9-inch round cake pans—one for the angel food batter and one for the devil’s food batter. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
- Sift dry ingredients separately for angel food and devil’s food cakes to guarantee a smooth texture.
- Separate egg whites from yolks carefully, ensuring no yolk contaminates the whites to achieve stiff peaks.
- Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead to streamline the baking process.
Making the Cake Batter
- Angel Food Cake Batter:
- In a clean mixing bowl, whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy.
- Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in sifted cake flour and vanilla extract to maintain the airy structure.
- Devil’s Food Cake Batter:
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg yolks one at a time.
- Mix in cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt alternately with buttermilk for smooth consistency.
- Add coffee and vanilla extract for enhanced cocoa flavor.
Baking the Cake
| Cake Layer | Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angel Food Cake | 350°F (175°C) | 35-40 minutes | Cake is springy and pulls away from pan edges |
| Devil’s Food Cake | 350°F (175°C) | 30-35 minutes | Toothpick inserted comes out clean |
- Place pans in the center of the oven.
- Rotate pans halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently to maintain a stable temperature.
Cooling the Cake
- Remove cakes from oven and let cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes.
- Run a thin knife around the edges to loosen.
- Invert angel food cake onto a cooling rack to maintain height and texture.
- Gently remove devil’s food cake from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Frosting and Assembly
Bringing together the Heaven and Hell Cake requires careful frosting and assembly to highlight the contrasting flavors and textures. Let’s walk through the process step by step to ensure our cake looks stunning and tastes divine.
Preparing the Frosting
To complement the angel food and devil’s food layers, we prepare a smooth, rich frosting that enhances both without overpowering either. Our classic chocolate buttercream is a perfect balance.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- ¼ cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy and pale.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low to avoid clouding.
- Slowly pour in milk and add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Increase speed to medium-high and whip for 3-4 minutes until light, fluffy, and spreadable.
- If frosting is too thick, add more milk 1 tablespoon at a time. If too thin, add more powdered sugar by ¼ cup increments.
Assembling the Layers
Now that our frosting is ready, we assemble the cake to showcase the “Heaven and Hell” contrast.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Level the cakes | Use a serrated knife to trim domed tops. |
| 2 | Place devil’s food cake layer | On the cake board or serving platter. |
| 3 | Spread frosting evenly | Use an offset spatula for a smooth ¼ inch layer. |
| 4 | Add angel food cake layer | Carefully place on top, pressing lightly. |
| 5 | Apply crumb coat | Thin layer of frosting on entire cake. Chill 20 minutes. |
| 6 | Final frosting layer | Smooth evenly with spatula or piping bag. |
Decorating the Cake
Decoration should enhance the Heaven and Hell theme, inviting curiosity and appetite.
- Piping: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe borders around the base and top.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or curls on the devil’s food side for a decadent touch.
- Edible Flowers or Vanilla Beans: Add delicate edible flowers or vanilla beans on the angel food side for elegance.
- Drizzle: Optionally, drizzle molten chocolate or white chocolate ganache in contrasting patterns across the cake surface.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Heaven and Hell Cake, consider these serving tips that highlight its contrasting flavors and beautiful presentation.
1. Temperature and Timing
Serve the cake at room temperature to allow the rich chocolate and airy angel food textures to shine. Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance flavors.
2. Portioning the Cake
Cut the cake into moderate slices—approximately 2 inches wide—to balance the lightness of the angel food layer with the richness of the devil’s food layer. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts that preserve the cake’s layered design.
3. Pairing Beverages
Serve with beverages that complement the contrasting flavors:
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Freshly brewed coffee | Slight bitterness with robust aroma | Balances the sweetness and depth |
| Hot herbal tea | Mild and floral | Refreshes the palate |
| Cold milk | Creamy and subtly sweet | Soothes the richness of chocolate |
| Dessert wine | Sweet and fruity (e.g., Moscato) | Enhances the cake’s decadent notes |
4. Garnishing Ideas
Add garnishes that enhance the Heaven and Hell Cake’s theme and taste:
- Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast
- A dusting of powdered sugar on the angel food layer for a cloud-like effect
- Dark chocolate curls or shavings on the devil’s food layer for extra decadence
- A drizzle of raspberry or caramel sauce to introduce a vibrant flavor balance
5. Serving Occasion
Make this cake the centerpiece for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or dinner parties. Its dual-layered flavor invites conversation and amazement, making it perfect for moments worth sharing.
6. Storage and Leftover Serving
Wrap leftover cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Before serving again, bring to room temperature and refresh the frosting by adding a small spread of buttercream if necessary.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and thoughtful make-ahead planning ensure our Heaven and Hell Cake maintains its perfect texture and flavors for savoring later.
Storing the Cake
- After assembling and frosting, allow the cake to set at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Cover the cake loosely with a cake dome or an overturned large bowl to prevent the frosting from drying.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the frosting firm and the layers fresh.
- Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature for about 30 minutes to revive the cake’s softness and enhance the flavors.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 12 hours | Keep covered, avoid direct sunlight |
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store in airtight container or cake dome |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; thaw overnight in fridge |
Freezing Instructions
- For longer storage, freeze the cake after assembly without fresh garnishes or ganache.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator.
- Unwrap and allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the cake layers 1 to 2 days ahead and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture.
- Prepare the chocolate buttercream frosting up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Assemble and frost the cake on the day of serving for the freshest taste and best presentation.
- To save even more time, bake and freeze the layers weeks in advance using the freezing method above.
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips we ensure our Heaven and Hell Cake stays moist, flavorful, and visually stunning whenever we serve it.
Conclusion
The Heaven and Hell Cake offers a perfect balance between light and rich flavors that’s sure to impress any dessert lover. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create a stunning cake that tastes as good as it looks. Its versatility makes it ideal for celebrations or simply indulging in a special treat at home.
By following these steps, we ensure every bite delivers that delightful contrast we crave. Whether serving it fresh or storing it for later, this cake remains a memorable centerpiece that brings joy to any occasion. Let’s enjoy the process and the delicious results together!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heaven and Hell Cake?
Heaven and Hell Cake is a dessert featuring two contrasting layers: a light, airy angel food cake (heaven) and a rich, dense devil’s food cake (hell), combined and frosted to create a harmonious flavor balance.
What ingredients are needed for Heaven and Hell Cake?
You need separate ingredients for the angel food cake (egg whites, sugar, cake flour, cream of tartar), devil’s food cake (cocoa powder, flour, sugar, eggs), and chocolate buttercream frosting (butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, milk).
What equipment do I need to bake this cake?
Essential tools include two 9-inch round cake pans, mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, sifter, rubber spatulas, cooling racks, offset spatula, piping bags, tips, and a cake board or platter.
How do I prepare the batters for both cake layers?
Separate the techniques: whip egg whites and sift dry ingredients for the angel food cake carefully to keep it light; for devil’s food cake, combine cocoa and dry ingredients with wet ingredients for a moist, rich batter.
What is the recommended baking time and temperature?
Bake both layers at 350°F. Angel food cake takes about 35-40 minutes, devil’s food around 30-35 minutes. Use a toothpick test to check doneness: it should come out clean.
How do I frost and assemble Heaven and Hell Cake?
Level both cake layers, spread a crumb coat to seal crumbs, chill, then apply a final layer of chocolate buttercream. Decorate with piping, chocolate shavings, or ganache to highlight the theme.
How should I serve Heaven and Hell Cake?
Serve at room temperature, cut into moderate slices. It pairs well with coffee, herbal tea, cold milk, or dessert wine. Garnish with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or chocolate curls for extra flair.
How do I store Heaven and Hell Cake?
Cover the cake to prevent drying and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze without garnishes and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I make parts of the cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake layers one or two days in advance and store properly. Prepare the frosting beforehand too. Assemble the cake on the serving day for the best freshness and presentation.