Introduction: Ready for a Light, Fruity Dessert?
Craving a dessert that’s airy, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor? This Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is a no-bake treat that layers fluffy angel food cake, a creamy cream cheese mixture, and glossy strawberries for a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert. Perfect for summer potlucks, family gatherings, or a refreshing sweet treat, this dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious. Ready to create some strawberry bliss? Let’s dive in!
Overview: Why Strawberry Angel Food Dessert Shines
This Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is a light, no-bake dessert that combines the airy texture of angel food cake with a rich cream cheese layer and sweet, glazed strawberries. It’s naturally vegetarian, beginner-friendly, and ideal for making ahead, with a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and fluffy textures that make it a hit for all ages.
- Time Requirement: About 20 minutes for prep, plus chilling time (at least 1–2 hours).
- Difficulty Level: Super easy. No baking or cooking required, just crumbling, mixing, and layering.
- Why It’s Special: The combination of fluffy angel food cake, creamy filling, and juicy strawberries creates a refreshing, indulgent dessert that’s light enough for warm days.
Essential Ingredients: What You’ll Need
With just six ingredients, this recipe is all about simplicity and vibrant strawberry flavor. Use fresh strawberries and a quality glaze for the best results.
- 1 (10-inch / 25 cm) angel food cake: Provides a light, airy base.
- 2 (8-ounce / 226 g each) packages cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, creamy layer.
- 1 cup (200 g) white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 (8-ounce / 226 g) container frozen whipped topping, thawed: Adds lightness and fluffiness.
- 1 quart (about 4 cups / 600 g) fresh strawberries, sliced: Delivers juicy, fresh flavor.
- 1 (18-ounce / 510 g) jar strawberry glaze: Coats the strawberries for a glossy, sweet finish.
- Substitutions and Variations:
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free whipped topping (e.g., coconut whipped cream).
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the angel food cake is gluten-free (store-bought or homemade with gluten-free flour).
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to ¾ cup (150 g) or use a sugar substitute; opt for a low-sugar or homemade glaze (blend 1 cup strawberries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch, cooked until thickened).
- Fruit Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries for variety.
- Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for extra depth.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The angel food cake provides a fluffy, light base, the cream cheese mixture adds creamy richness, and the glazed strawberries bring a sweet, juicy pop, creating a perfect layered dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Strawberry Angel Food Dessert
This no-bake recipe is quick and simple, delivering a refreshing, layered dessert. Follow these steps for a perfect result!
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Crumble or cut 1 (10-inch) angel food cake into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the pieces evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer.
- Tip: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts or tear by hand for a rustic texture; ensure an even layer for consistent coverage.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a medium bowl, beat 2 (8-ounce) packages softened cream cheese with 1 cup white sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Fold in 1 (8-ounce) container thawed whipped topping with a spatula until fully combined and smooth.
- Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps, and fold gently to maintain the whipped topping’s airy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cream Cheese Layer
- Gently press the cake pieces down slightly to form a compact layer.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer, using a spatula to smooth it out.
- Tip: Spread to the edges for full coverage, and tap the dish gently to remove air pockets.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
- In a large bowl, combine 1 quart sliced fresh strawberries with 1 (18-ounce) jar strawberry glaze, tossing gently until the strawberries are evenly coated.
- Tip: Slice strawberries uniformly for a polished look, and ensure the glaze coats each piece without breaking the berries.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
- Spread the glazed strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Tip: Chill for up to 4 hours for a firmer texture, making it easier to scoop or cut.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve chilled, scooping portions into bowls or cutting into squares for a neater presentation.
- Tip: Garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream for a decorative touch.
Assembly: Creating the Perfect Strawberry Angel Food Dessert
Assembling this dessert is all about layering for a balance of textures and flavors. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Layer the Cake: Arrange the cake pieces evenly for a sturdy, fluffy base.
- Spread the Cream: Smooth the cream cheese mixture for a creamy, even layer.
- Top with Strawberries: Spread the glazed strawberries for a glossy, vibrant finish.
- Presentation Tips:
- Serve in a clear glass dish to show off the colorful layers.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves, extra whipped topping, or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for texture.
- Cut into squares for a tidy presentation or scoop for a rustic, family-style serve.
- Serving Tip: Serve chilled for a refreshing, cohesive texture, perfect with a cold drink like lemonade or iced tea.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dessert is ideal for preparing ahead and stores well with proper care. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Fridge: Store covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake may soften further, but flavors remain delicious.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as the cream cheese and whipped topping layers may separate upon thawing.
- Serving Tip: Refresh with a few fresh strawberry slices if stored for a couple of days.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Assemble the dessert up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge, adding garnishes just before serving.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture a day ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to spread.
- Slice strawberries and store in the fridge (without glaze) for up to 1 day; toss with glaze just before assembling.
Recipe Variations: Get Creative!
Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is versatile, so you can tweak it to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:
- Mixed Berry Angel Food Dessert: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with a matching glaze.
- Lemon Strawberry Dessert: Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Angel Food Dessert: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or layer with chocolate shavings for a decadent touch.
- Tropical Angel Food Dessert: Swap strawberries for mango or pineapple chunks with a matching glaze.
- Mini Angel Food Cups: Layer in individual cups or jars for portable, party-friendly servings.
Conclusion: Savor the Fruity Bliss of Strawberry Angel Food Dessert!
You’ve just created a Strawberry Angel Food Dessert that’s as refreshing as it is delicious! With its fluffy angel food cake, creamy filling, and glossy strawberries, this no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any time you crave a light, fruity dessert. Get creative with variations or serve it classically, and enjoy every creamy, strawberry-filled bite. How will you make your dessert unique? Share your ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
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Strawberry Angel Food Dessert
Description
Craving a dessert that’s airy, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor? This Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is a no-bake treat that layers fluffy angel food cake, a creamy cream cheese mixture, and glossy strawberries for a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
With just six ingredients, this recipe is all about simplicity and vibrant strawberry flavor. Use fresh strawberries and a quality glaze for the best results.
-
1 (10-inch / 25 cm) angel food cake: Provides a light, airy base.
-
2 (8-ounce / 226 g each) packages cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, creamy layer.
-
1 cup (200 g) white sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
-
1 (8-ounce / 226 g) container frozen whipped topping, thawed: Adds lightness and fluffiness.
-
1 quart (about 4 cups / 600 g) fresh strawberries, sliced: Delivers juicy, fresh flavor.
-
1 (18-ounce / 510 g) jar strawberry glaze: Coats the strawberries for a glossy, sweet finish.
-
Substitutions and Variations:
-
Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free whipped topping (e.g., coconut whipped cream).
-
Gluten-Free: Ensure the angel food cake is gluten-free (store-bought or homemade with gluten-free flour).
-
Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to ¾ cup (150 g) or use a sugar substitute; opt for a low-sugar or homemade glaze (blend 1 cup strawberries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch, cooked until thickened).
-
Fruit Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries for variety.
-
Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon almond extract to the cream cheese mixture for extra depth.
-
Why These Ingredients Matter: The angel food cake provides a fluffy, light base, the cream cheese mixture adds creamy richness, and the glazed strawberries bring a sweet, juicy pop, creating a perfect layered dessert.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
-
Crumble or cut 1 (10-inch) angel food cake into bite-sized pieces.
-
Arrange the pieces evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer.
-
Tip: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts or tear by hand for a rustic texture; ensure an even layer for consistent coverage.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
-
In a medium bowl, beat 2 (8-ounce) packages softened cream cheese with 1 cup white sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
-
Fold in 1 (8-ounce) container thawed whipped topping with a spatula until fully combined and smooth.
-
Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps, and fold gently to maintain the whipped topping’s airy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Cream Cheese Layer
-
Gently press the cake pieces down slightly to form a compact layer.
-
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer, using a spatula to smooth it out.
-
Tip: Spread to the edges for full coverage, and tap the dish gently to remove air pockets.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
-
In a large bowl, combine 1 quart sliced fresh strawberries with 1 (18-ounce) jar strawberry glaze, tossing gently until the strawberries are evenly coated.
-
Tip: Slice strawberries uniformly for a polished look, and ensure the glaze coats each piece without breaking the berries.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
-
Spread the glazed strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
-
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
-
Tip: Chill for up to 4 hours for a firmer texture, making it easier to scoop or cut.
Step 6: Serve
-
Serve chilled, scooping portions into bowls or cutting into squares for a neater presentation.
-
Tip: Garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream for a decorative touch.
FAQs: Your Strawberry Angel Food Dessert Questions Answered
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes, thaw and drain 4 cups frozen strawberries before tossing with glaze. Note that they may release more liquid, so pat dry if needed.
Q: Is this dessert healthy?
A: It’s a treat with sugar and cream cheese, but strawberries provide vitamin C and fiber. Use low-sugar glaze or reduce sugar in the cream layer for a lighter option.
Q: Why is my cream cheese layer lumpy?
A: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating, and mix thoroughly with the sugar to achieve a smooth texture.
Q: Can I make my own angel food cake?
A: Yes, bake a homemade angel food cake or use a store-bought one. Cool completely before crumbling to avoid a gummy texture.
Q: How long does it take to make this dessert?
A: About 20 minutes for prep, plus 1–2 hours for chilling (up to 4 hours for best results).
Q: Can I use a homemade glaze?
A: Yes, blend 1 cup strawberries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch, cook until thickened, and cool before tossing with strawberries.