Strawberry-Rhubarb Angel Food Cake

Ingredients

• 1 angel food cake mix (or use a ready-made cake)
• 2 1/2 cups sliced rhubarb
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 orange + its grated peel
• 2 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
• Red food color
• 1 cup whipping cream
• 1 (16 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Mint leaves (garnish)

Instructions

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. Stir remaining strawberries into rhubarb mixture.
4. Stir in a few drops red food color for eye appeal. Cool. Mixture will begin to thicken slightly.
5. Slice cake horizontally to make 3 layers. Spoon 1/2 the filling on bottom cake layer. Add second layer cake and spoon on remaining filling. Place top layer on cake.
6. Chill cream well, then whip until stiff. Set aside.
7. Beat together ricotta cheese, 4 tablespoons sugar and the grated peel of one orange. Beat until fluffy.
8. Fold whipped cream into whipped ricotta cheese.
9. Frost the sides and top of cake with whip cream mixture.
10. Garnish with remaining strawberry slices and mint leaves.
11. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

This cake is best if served the same day it is made.