BBQ Grilled Angel Food Cake Recipe: Smoky-Sweet Dessert With Charred Caramel Notes

I’ve discovered a surprising twist on classic angel food cake: grilling it over BBQ adds a smoky sweetness that elevates this dessert to new heights. 🔥 The key is careful temperature control and a watchful eye to achieve that perfect caramelized crust.

By combining the airy texture of angel food cake with the rich flavor of BBQ smoke, you’ll create a dessert that’s both familiar and excitingly new. Let’s explore how to master this unique technique and bring a smoky twist to your summer gatherings.

Ingredients for Bbq Grilled Angel Food Cake

Gather these premium ingredients to create a smoky twist on classic angel food cake.

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For the best results, use high-quality angel food cake—homemade if you’re feeling ambitious, or store-bought from Trader Joe’s or a reputable bakery. The granulated sugar for grilling should be superfine to prevent burning. I like to keep King Arthur superfine sugar on hand for this purpose.

No whipped cream maker? Chill a metal bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes, then whip until stiff peaks form. For the BBQ sauce, Kansas City-style or Memphis-style works beautifully—both have that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.

Leftover grilled cake? Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and toast for a decadent breakfast treat. The whipped cream can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Angel Food Cake

Let’s transform this classic dessert into a smoky masterpiece with these easy-to-follow steps.

🔥 Step 1: Prep the Grill and Cake

Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 325°F). While it’s heating up, slice the 1 whole Angel Food Cake into 1-inch thick slices. I like to use a serrated knife for clean cuts. Brush both sides of each slice with the 2 tbsp melted Unsalted Butter to prevent sticking and add richness.

Now, sprinkle the 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar evenly over both sides of the cake slices. The sugar will caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a crunchy exterior. Make sure to coat all slices evenly for consistent results.

🍳 Step 2: Grill the Cake to Perfection

Place the sugar-coated cake slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until you get nice grill marks and the sugar is caramelized. Watch closely as sugar burns quickly. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and the cake has a lovely char.

Once grilled, transfer the cake slices to a wire rack to cool slightly. The residual heat will continue to warm the cake through, while the outside stays crisp. This contrast is what makes this dessert so special.

👨‍🍳 Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

While the cake is grilling, prepare your toppings. Slice the 2 cups Fresh Berries and mix with a pinch of 0.25 tsp Kosher Salt to enhance their natural sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of 1 tbsp Lemon Zest for a bright, citrusy note.

Whip the 1 cup Heavy Cream with 1 tsp Vanilla Extract until it forms stiff peaks. Be careful not to over-whip, or you’ll end up with butter. The cream should be smooth and hold its shape beautifully.

🥘 Step 4: Assemble and Serve

To serve, place a grilled angel food cake slice on each plate. Top with a generous dollop of the whipped cream and a spoonful of the fresh berries. If you’re using 0.25 cup BBQ Sauce, drizzle it artfully over the top for a smoky-sweet contrast.

Finally, dust with 0.5 cup Powdered Sugar just before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. The combination of textures and flavors will surprise and delight your guests!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Cooling and Storage Basics

After grilling, let the angel food cake slices cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from making the cake soggy. Once cooled, store leftover cake slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. I like to use glass containers with tight-fitting lids to maintain freshness.

Refrigeration Tips

If you need to store the cake for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in an airtight container. This prevents the cake from absorbing fridge odors and drying out. When you’re ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature for the best texture.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat grilled angel food cake, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. You can also toast the cake lightly for a crispy exterior. For a quick fix, microwave individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds – just enough to take the chill off without drying out the cake. 🔥

Freezing for Later

For longer storage, you can freeze grilled angel food cake slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Frozen cake will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. The cake may lose some of its grilled texture, but it will still be delicious.

Tips for Maintaining Quality

To keep your grilled angel food cake fresh and delicious, avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors easily. When reheating, be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake. With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy your smoky-sweet dessert multiple times. ❄️

Creative Leftover Ideas

Don’t let leftover grilled angel food cake go to waste! Use it to make a decadent bread pudding or trifle. Simply cube the leftover cake, layer it with whipped cream and fresh berries, and you’ve got a stunning dessert. You can also crumble the cake and use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Get creative and enjoy!