Strawberry Angel Food Cake – Easy No-Bake Summer Treat

There’s something deeply nostalgic about strawberry desserts. Maybe it’s the way the sweet aroma fills the kitchen or how that first bite instantly transports you to warm, carefree days spent with family and friends. This particular recipe, a Layered Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert, brings all of that and more in one beautifully simple, crowd-pleasing treat.

I first made this recipe for a summer potluck a few years ago. It was one of those last-minute things—I had strawberries on the edge, a store-bought angel food cake on the counter, and Cool Whip thawing in the fridge. With some cream cheese and a packet of Jell-O, the idea hit me like a lightbulb moment. I layered it all together, hoping it would turn out halfway decent. Not only did it turn out, but it also vanished in minutes. People were scraping the dish, asking for the recipe, and going back for seconds. From that moment on, this dessert has been a staple in my kitchen.

What makes this recipe so special is how it combines textures and flavors. The cloud-like softness of angel food cake soaks in the cream cheese and Cool Whip layer like a sponge, while the glossy strawberry glaze adds a beautiful, jammy finish. It’s cool, refreshing, and indulgent—but not too heavy—making it ideal for spring brunches, holiday gatherings, or just when you want to treat yourself to something delightful.

Better yet, this recipe is ridiculously easy to make. You don’t need to turn on your oven or have any special baking skills. Everything comes together with minimal prep, a little chilling time, and a whole lot of love. So if you’re looking for a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery window but tastes like a family favorite, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Angel Food Recipe

There are a lot of desserts out there, but few manage to strike the perfect balance between ease, beauty, and pure joy. This Strawberry Angel Food Dessert does exactly that, and here’s why you’re going to fall in love with it:

It’s Effortlessly Easy

You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make this dish. If you can mix, fold, and layer, you can make this dessert. Most of the ingredients are ready-made or require minimal prep. That’s the magic of this recipe—it gives you impressive results without the stress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting brunch, heading to a potluck, or planning a casual dinner with friends, this dessert fits right in. It feels festive and elegant, but it’s also comforting and familiar. It’s especially ideal during spring and summer when strawberries are in season, but honestly, it works year-round with good-quality berries.

Flavor That Sings

This dessert has that dreamy combination of sweet, tart, creamy, and fluffy. The strawberries bring a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth vanilla-infused cream cheese. The Cool Whip keeps things light, while the Jell-O glaze adds that signature strawberry punch that lingers just long enough.

Kid and Adult Approved

It’s hard to find a dessert that everyone agrees on, but this one is a universal hit. Kids love the bright strawberry layer and the soft cake, while adults appreciate the richness of the cream cheese and the not-too-sweet finish.

Make-Ahead Friendly

You can assemble the entire dessert a day in advance and let it chill overnight. In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge when all the layers meld together into a dreamy, spoonable masterpiece.

With so many reasons to love this dessert, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to for all things sweet and celebratory.

Health Benefits

While this dessert is undoubtedly indulgent, it also comes with a few nutritional perks that make it a smarter sweet treat option when compared to traditional heavy desserts. Let’s take a look at how the ingredients play a role in making this a balanced choice in moderation.

Fresh Strawberries Bring the Nutrition

Strawberries are the star ingredient here, and they’re absolutely packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, strawberries support immune health, aid in digestion, and help protect against free radical damage. They’re also low in calories and have a high water content, which makes them hydrating and refreshing.

Angel Food Cake is Naturally Lower in Fat

Angel food cake, traditionally made from egg whites and no added fat, is one of the lightest cake options available. It’s fluffy, low in calories, and free from butter or oil. This makes it a fantastic base for creamy, fruit-forward desserts without adding unnecessary heaviness.

Cream Cheese in Moderation Offers Nutritional Value

Though cream cheese is rich, it provides a good dose of calcium and vitamin A. Using it in a moderate amount, balanced with lighter ingredients like Cool Whip and fruit, helps create a more balanced dessert overall.

Cool Whip Adds Creaminess Without Excess Calories

Compared to heavy whipping cream, Cool Whip offers a lighter texture with fewer calories per serving. It adds a lovely whipped consistency without the richness that can sometimes weigh down a dessert.

Low-Fat and Customizable

This dessert can easily be adjusted to make it more health-conscious. Use reduced-fat cream cheese, sugar alternatives like Stevia, and light Cool Whip if you’re watching your intake. Despite these changes, the flavor still shines through beautifully.

So, while this isn’t a green smoothie or a protein bowl, it’s still a dessert you can feel good about enjoying on occasion. Especially when made with love and shared with others.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

When it comes to planning out a dessert, it helps to know exactly what you’re getting into in terms of prep, servings, and nutrition. This section lays it all out clearly so you know how this dish fits into your schedule—and your plate.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time (Glaze Only): 5–7 minutes
• Chill Time: 2–3 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours including chilling

Servings

• Serves: 12 generous portions

This makes it ideal for a medium-sized gathering or event. You can also easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Sugar: 24g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Vitamin C: 60% DV

Please note: these numbers are estimates and may vary slightly based on the brands you use or any substitutions you make.

Now that you’ve got a clear idea of what to expect, let’s move on to what you’ll need.

Ingredients List of this Strawberry Angel Food

This dessert doesn’t require anything fancy or hard to find. Most of the ingredients can be picked up from a standard grocery store, and many of them you might already have on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need, with helpful notes on why each ingredient is essential.

• 1 angel food cake, torn into 1-inch pieces
  This forms the base layer. Its airy texture absorbs flavor and gives structure without heaviness.
• 1 (16 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
  Used in both the cake and cream cheese layers, it adds a whipped, creamy texture without the need for homemade whipped cream.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  This is the heart of the creamy layer. It adds richness, tang, and a velvety mouthfeel.
• 1 cup sugar, divided
  Used to sweeten both the cream cheese and the strawberry glaze. It helps balance the tanginess and acidity in the dessert.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  This boosts the flavor of the cream cheese layer, adding warmth and depth.
• 1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced
  They’re not only used as a topping but also folded into the glaze. The freshness makes a huge difference here.
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
  Helps thicken the strawberry glaze, giving it a luscious, jam-like consistency.
• 1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O
  Adds color, flavor, and a little extra body to the glaze. It also helps the strawberries set beautifully on top.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  Enhances the natural tartness of the strawberries and keeps the glaze from being overly sweet.
• 1 cup water
  Used to dissolve the sugar, Jell-O, and cornstarch to create the strawberry glaze.

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start assembling the magic.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Strawberry Angel Food

This recipe comes together in layers, and each one adds a new texture and flavor to the dessert. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get the best results, along with helpful tips along the way.

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Glaze

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the following:

• ½ cup of the sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup water

Begin stirring as soon as the mixture is combined. It’s important to stir constantly to prevent the cornstarch from clumping or settling at the bottom. As it heats, you’ll notice the mixture starting to thicken. Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat slightly and continue to stir for another 1 to 2 minutes until the glaze reaches a thick, pourable consistency. It should resemble warm jelly.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the glaze to cool slightly—about 10 minutes is perfect. This ensures it won’t melt the Cool Whip or cream cheese when layered.

Step 2: Add the Strawberries to the Glaze

While the glaze is still slightly warm, gently fold in the sliced strawberries. Stir until the berries are well-coated and glossy. Set the mixture aside to cool fully while you prep the other layers.

Step 3: Prepare the Angel Food Cake Layer

Tear the angel food cake into 1-inch chunks. They don’t need to be perfectly even—this rustic texture actually works better to catch the cream and glaze later.

In a large bowl, mix together the cake pieces and about 2 cups of the Cool Whip. Gently fold until all the cake pieces are lightly coated and sticky. This helps them bind together and gives the base a lovely, moist texture.

Press this mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out, ensuring it’s pressed down just enough to form a flat layer.

Step 4: Create the Cream Cheese Layer

In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes.

Fold in the remaining Cool Whip by hand using a spatula. Take your time with this step; folding gently will keep the mixture light and airy.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer. Smooth it out with a spatula so you have an even, flat surface.

Step 5: Add the Strawberry Topping

By now, your strawberry glaze should be fully cooled and thickened. Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread it gently but evenly across the entire surface.

The vibrant red berries against the white cream layer are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld. For best results, let it chill overnight.

Once it’s fully set, you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve this Strawberry Angel Food

Serving this dessert is just as much a delight as preparing it. Once it’s chilled and set, the vibrant layers make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, a baby shower, or just enjoying a casual weekend treat, the way you serve this Strawberry Angel Food Dessert can enhance the whole experience.

To begin, make sure your dessert is well chilled. This not only helps the layers hold together when slicing, but also improves the flavor and texture. Once it’s firm, use a sharp knife to cut clean, square portions. Because this dessert has such soft, fluffy layers, it’s helpful to wipe the knife clean between slices for neat presentation.

You can serve each slice on a small dessert plate with a spoon or fork. For an elegant touch, top each serving with a fresh mint leaf or a few additional strawberry slices. This little detail adds a pop of freshness and makes your dish look like it came straight from a patisserie.

If you want to take things up a notch, drizzle a little strawberry syrup or a thin line of honey on the plate before placing the dessert slice on top. It’s a simple way to make each serving feel extra special.

For parties or potlucks, consider scooping the dessert into small clear cups or jars instead of serving it in slices. This allows for individual servings and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, those beautiful layers shine through the clear sides, making the presentation even more appealing.

However you choose to serve it, the most important thing is to enjoy it chilled and fresh. The creamy middle, fluffy cake, and glistening strawberries are at their best when cool, making each bite refreshing and indulgent all at once.

Pairing Suggestions for this Strawberry Angel Food

Pairing desserts with the right beverages or sides can elevate the entire experience, and this Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is no exception. Because it’s light, fruity, and creamy, it works wonderfully with a variety of complementary flavors.

If you’re serving this for a brunch or afternoon gathering, consider pairing it with a refreshing drink like iced herbal tea. Something slightly floral or fruity—like hibiscus, raspberry, or lemon verbena—works beautifully to enhance the strawberry flavors without overpowering them. Unsweetened tea or lightly sweetened options are ideal to balance out the sweetness of the dessert.

For a more festive occasion, you can offer sparkling water with fresh fruit slices. A chilled citrus-infused sparkling water served in tall glasses gives a nice contrast to the creamy dessert, making it feel even more refreshing. You could also use strawberry slices and mint to mirror the dessert’s main ingredients.

If you’re planning a full meal, consider serving this dessert after something light and seasonal, like a spring salad with grilled chicken or a chilled pasta dish with fresh vegetables. The dessert rounds off a light meal perfectly, offering just the right amount of sweetness and satisfaction.

For kids, pairing it with a small glass of cold milk or a strawberry smoothie can make dessert time extra fun and wholesome. And for those looking to keep things even lighter, a scoop of sugar-free strawberry sorbet on the side can make for a delightful pairing that stays within a fruit-forward theme.

No matter how you serve it, this dessert shines as the star of the table. But with the right pairing, you can create a memorable experience from start to finish that feels both indulgent and well-balanced.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best parts about this dessert—besides how delicious it is—is how well it stores. In fact, the flavor improves slightly after chilling as the layers meld together. However, proper storage is key to maintaining that fresh, creamy texture and keeping the strawberries looking their best.

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. Keep the dessert refrigerated at all times. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. After that, the strawberries may start to release too much moisture, and the cream layer might become a bit soft or runny.

If you’re preparing the dessert in advance, it’s perfectly fine to make it the night before you plan to serve it. In fact, chilling overnight gives it a firmer structure and deeper flavor. Just be sure to keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing this dessert is a bit tricky because of the different textures involved. While the angel food cake and cream cheese layers freeze reasonably well, the strawberries and gelatin layer can become watery or slightly rubbery after thawing. If you do decide to freeze it, wrap the entire dish tightly in two layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month.

To thaw, place the dessert in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving it to speed up thawing, as that can compromise the texture and cause separation in the cream layer. Serve it slightly chilled for the best taste and consistency.

If you’re only freezing individual portions, you can place them in airtight containers with a piece of wax paper between the layers. This makes it easy to grab one serving at a time, especially if you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers for later.

And just a tip—this dessert is best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days, so try not to make more than you think you’ll eat. But if you do have leftovers, you’ll be glad to know they store just as beautifully as they serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Strawberry Angel Food

Even with a recipe as straightforward as this one, a few simple missteps can make the difference between a decent dessert and a truly show-stopping one. Here are the most common mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them so you can enjoy the best version of this delightful strawberry treat.

One common issue is not letting the glaze cool fully before adding it to the cream cheese layer. If the strawberry glaze is still warm, it can melt the whipped topping and create a runny, uneven top layer. Be sure to allow the glaze to reach room temperature before spooning it over the dessert.

Another mistake is using overly wet strawberries. If your berries are freshly washed, make sure to pat them completely dry before slicing. Too much extra moisture can water down the glaze and make the dessert soggy.

Some people are tempted to overmix the cream cheese and Cool Whip, but this can deflate the whipped topping and make the cream layer dense rather than fluffy. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined to maintain that airy, mousse-like texture.

Using low-quality or unripe strawberries can also affect the final flavor. Ripe, sweet strawberries are essential for a flavorful glaze and topping. If your berries are slightly underwhelming, a tiny pinch of salt in the glaze can help enhance their natural sweetness.

Lastly, don’t skip the chill time. It’s tempting to dive in early, but this dessert really needs those two to three hours in the fridge to set properly. If you cut into it too soon, the layers may slide or blend together, losing the visual and textural contrast that makes this dish so appealing.

By keeping an eye on these small but important details, you can ensure that every batch of this dessert turns out picture-perfect and absolutely delicious.

Pro Tips of this Strawberry Angel Food

Want to take this recipe from great to unforgettable? Here are some expert-level pro tips that will help you master this dessert and impress your guests every time.

First, use room temperature cream cheese. This makes it much easier to blend smoothly without lumps. Cold cream cheese can create a grainy texture, so let it soften for about 30 to 45 minutes on the counter before mixing.

Next, fold gently, don’t stir aggressively. When combining the whipped topping with the cream cheese mixture, use a folding motion with a spatula. This keeps the mixture airy and prevents it from becoming too dense or heavy.

For an even more stable glaze, let the strawberry mixture sit in the fridge for about 10–15 minutes after combining it with the gelatin and cornstarch. This helps it set just slightly before spooning it over the dessert, reducing the risk of it running off the sides or soaking into the cream layer.

If you want the dessert to be extra visually stunning, reserve a few perfect whole strawberries and slice them thinly to create a decorative pattern on top. You can fan them out or place them in concentric circles for a bakery-style look.

When pressing the cake layer into the dish, don’t mash it down too hard. A gentle press is all you need to create an even layer. Pressing too firmly can compress the cake and make it less absorbent, which reduces that wonderful moist texture.

Also, for a subtle flavor twist, add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. It complements the strawberry and adds a fresh brightness that takes the entire dessert up a notch.

Finally, always remember to chill long enough. Letting it rest in the fridge for a few hours gives the layers time to settle and the flavors to meld, ensuring the perfect bite every time.

These small adjustments can make a big impact and turn your homemade dessert into a showstopper worthy of any celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the glaze.

Is it okay to use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream if you prefer a more natural option. Just be aware that homemade whipped cream may not hold its shape as long, so it’s best to serve the dessert the same day if you go this route.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a gluten-free angel food cake, which you can find in specialty bakeries or make at home using gluten-free flour blends. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but double-check labels to be safe.

What size dish should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish works perfectly for this recipe. It gives you the ideal height for layering and makes clean-up simple.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can cut back slightly on the sugar in the cream cheese mixture or use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener. However, reducing the sugar in the glaze may affect its ability to set properly.

Is this dessert suitable for halal diets?
Yes, this dessert can be halal-friendly as long as you check that your Jell-O and other packaged ingredients are free from gelatin derived from non-halal sources. Look for certified halal products or use vegetarian gelatin substitutes if needed.

Can I make individual servings instead of a large dish?
Definitely! Use clear dessert cups or mason jars to layer the ingredients individually. It’s a great option for parties or portion control, and the presentation is charming.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight improves the flavor and texture. Just keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I use flavored cream cheese?
It’s best to stick with plain cream cheese for this recipe to keep the flavor balanced. Flavored cream cheese may compete with the strawberries or add unexpected notes that don’t complement the dessert.

Can I use another type of fruit?
Absolutely. This recipe also works beautifully with raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend. Just adjust the Jell-O flavor to match or complement your chosen fruit.

Conclusion & Call to Action

So, there you have it—a dessert that checks all the boxes. It’s light yet satisfying, sweet but not cloying, and layered with textures and flavors that make every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your journey in the kitchen, this Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert is one of those foolproof recipes you’ll return to again and again.

It’s a showstopper without being showy, elegant without being fussy. It fits right into birthday parties, potlucks, bridal showers, and even your quiet Tuesday nights when you’re craving something sweet and soothing. And because it’s so versatile, you can easily customize it with different fruits, toppings, or a citrus twist to make it your own.

Now that you have the full recipe and all the tips to make it shine, it’s your turn to bring this dessert to life. Try it out this week, surprise your family, or impress your guests. And don’t forget to share your creations! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you.

If you make this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Share a photo and tag me on social media—I absolutely love seeing your kitchen magic. Happy layering, and enjoy every creamy, strawberry-filled bite!

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