Angel food is a type of cake that is light, fluffy, and delicate in texture. It is typically made with egg whites, sugar, and flour, and is known for its airy, ethereal quality. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of angel food, as well as its origins, associations, and synonyms.
Definitions
Angel food is a type of cake that is made with egg whites, sugar, and flour. It is known for its light and airy texture, which is achieved by whipping the egg whites until they are stiff and then folding in the other ingredients. Angel food is typically baked in a tube pan and is often served with whipped cream or fresh fruit.
Origin
The origins of angel food are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. Some sources suggest that the cake was invented by African American cooks who were looking for a way to use up leftover egg whites from other recipes. Others believe that the cake was developed by Pennsylvania Dutch bakers who were known for their light and airy desserts.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, angel food is defined as “a very light, white cake made with egg whites, sugar, and flour.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a type of cake made with whipped egg whites and no fat, resulting in a light, airy texture.” Both definitions emphasize the light and airy texture of the cake, which is its defining characteristic.
Associations
Angel food is often associated with special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. It is also associated with lightness, purity, and delicacy, which are qualities that are often associated with angels. Some people also associate angel food with dieting or healthy eating, as it is lower in fat and calories than many other types of cake.
Synonyms
Synonyms for angel food include sponge cake, chiffon cake, and meringue cake. These cakes are all similar in texture and are made with whipped egg whites to achieve a light and airy texture.
Antonyms
Antonyms for angel food might include dense cake, heavy cake, or rich cake. These cakes are typically made with more fat and sugar than angel food and have a denser texture.
The same root words
The term “angel food” does not have any obvious root words, as it is a relatively modern term. However, the word “angel” comes from the Greek word “angelos,” which means “messenger.” This association with messengers or heavenly beings may have contributed to the name of the cake.
Example Sentences
- I made an angel food cake for my daughter’s birthday party.
- The angel food cake was so light and fluffy, it practically floated off the plate.
- She served a slice of angel food cake with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- I prefer a dense chocolate cake to the light and airy texture of angel food.
- My grandmother’s sponge cake recipe is very similar to angel food, but with a slightly denser texture.