In a dazzling display of culinary artistry, Jeanine Kitzmiller from Chambersburg emerged victorious in the 2025 Pennsylvania Farm Show’s Angel Food Cake competition. Her innovative "Snickers" themed cake, layered with caramel frosting, peanut butter filling, and rich ganache, captivated judges and attendees alike. Held at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg, this prestigious event celebrates the finest in baking and agriculture.

Elevate Your Dessert Game with This Unforgettable Snickers-Inspired Angel Food Cake

The Art of Crafting an Award-Winning Cake

The journey to crafting an award-winning angel food cake is as much about technique as it is about creativity. Jeanine Kitzmiller's triumph lies not only in her impeccable baking skills but also in her bold choice of flavors that pay homage to the beloved Snickers bar. The foundation of her masterpiece starts with selecting the finest ingredients—egg whites, sifted flour, and premium sugar. Each element must be meticulously prepared to ensure the cake rises perfectly and achieves its signature light texture.Whipping egg whites to stiff peaks introduces air into the batter, creating a delicate sponge that can support the layers of flavor to come. The addition of cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they maintain their structure throughout the baking process. Vanilla and almond extract infuse the cake with aromatic depth, while the careful sifting of dry ingredients ensures uniform distribution. Baking in an ungreased tube pan for 40-50 minutes allows the cake to rise evenly, and cooling it upside down preserves its airy texture.

Layering Flavors: Caramel Frosting and Peanut Butter Filling

Once the cake has cooled, the real magic begins with the assembly of layers. The caramel frosting, a velvety blend of butter, caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla, adds a sweet and sticky contrast to the light cake. Achieving the perfect consistency requires patience and precision; adding milk and salt to taste ensures the frosting is neither too thick nor too thin. This layer not only enhances the visual appeal but also enriches the overall flavor profile.Complementing the caramel is the peanut butter filling—a luxurious spread made by beating together butter, powdered sugar, and creamy peanut butter. The inclusion of peanuts adds a satisfying crunch, balancing the smoothness of the frosting. Together, these layers create a symphony of textures and tastes that elevate the humble angel food cake to new heights.

Ganache: The Finishing Touch

No dessert is complete without a finishing touch, and in this case, it comes in the form of rich chocolate ganache. Created using a simple 1-to-1 ratio of chocolate chips to hot cream, this glossy topping drizzles over the cake, providing a decadent contrast to the lighter layers beneath. The warmth of the cream melts the chocolate, creating a silky-smooth glaze that sets beautifully once cooled. This final flourish ties the entire creation together, offering a moment of indulgence with every bite.

A Culinary Tradition Meets Innovation

The Pennsylvania Farm Show has long been a showcase for agricultural excellence, but it also highlights the evolving landscape of home baking. Competitions like the Angel Food Cake contest encourage bakers to push boundaries while honoring traditional techniques. Jeanine's win exemplifies this spirit of innovation, proving that classic recipes can be reimagined with modern twists. By combining familiar flavors with meticulous preparation, she has set a new standard for what angel food cake can be.The impact of such competitions extends beyond the show floor. They inspire home bakers to experiment and refine their skills, fostering a community of culinary enthusiasts who share a passion for creating memorable desserts. Whether competing at county fairs or simply baking for family gatherings, the lessons learned from events like the Pennsylvania Farm Show can transform ordinary cakes into extraordinary works of art.