Strawberry-Rhubarb Angel Food Cake

Recipe from the KLS-TV Cooking Show. While rhubarb is in season is a great time to try this wonderful dessert. It has a delightful strawberry-rhubarb filling and is crowned with whipped cream. This recipe heralds spring.

• Ready In: 1 hr 45 mins
• Serves: 10-12

Ingredients

• 1  angel food cake (make, use a mix or buy one already made)
• 2 1⁄2 cups  sliced rhubarb
• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1  orange
• 2 1⁄2 cups  sliced strawberries
•  red food coloring
• 1  cup  whipping cream
• 1 (16 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1⁄4 cup sugar
•  mint leaf (garnish)

Directions

1. Combine rhubarb and the juice of one orange (juice should equal at least 1/4 cup liquid- if additional liquid is needed, add water to make 1/4 cup).
2. Add 1/2 cup sugar, cover and cook over medium heat until rhubarb is tender.
3. Set aside 1/2 cup sliced strawberries.
4. Stir remaining strawberries into rhubarb mixture.
5. Stir in a few drops red food color for eye appeal.
6. Cool.
7. Mixture will begin to thicken slightly.
8. Slice cake horizontally to make 3 layers.
9. Spoon 1/2 the filling on bottom cake layer.
10. Add second layer cake and spoon on remaining filling.
11. Place top layer on cake.
12. Chill cream well, whip until stiff.
13. Set aside.
14. Beat together ricotta cheese, 4 tablespoons sugar, and the grated peel of one orange.
15. Beat until fluffy.
16. Fold whipped cream into whipped ricotta cheese.
17. Frost the sides and top of cake with whip cream mixture.
18. Garnish with remaining strawberry slices and mint leaves.
19. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
20. Cake is best if served same day.