If you’re looking for a light yet indulgent treat that bursts with fresh, fruity flavor, you absolutely must try this delightful Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert. It combines the airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of angel food cake with the sweet tang of strawberry Jell-O and fresh strawberries, all swirled into a creamy whipped topping. This dessert is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to bring together—whether for a family gathering, potluck, or simply a special weekend treat.

Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert plays a vital role, contributing to an unforgettable harmony of flavor, texture, and color. From the lightness of the angel food cake to the refreshing burst of strawberries, every element is essential and simple to find.

3 oz strawberry Jell-O: This gives the dessert its signature strawberry flavor and lovely pink hue that makes the dish visually appealing.
1 cup sliced strawberries: Adding natural sweetness and a bit of texture, these berries keep the dessert tasting fresh and vibrant.
8″ store-bought angel food cake (about 7 cups): Its airy, spongy texture soaks up the strawberry mixture beautifully, providing a light base without weighing the dessert down.
3 cups frozen whipped topping: This adds creaminess and balances the tang of the Jell-O for a silky, luscious mouthfeel.
5 sliced strawberries (for topping): The finishing touch, these fresh berries add a pop of color and a juicy bite to every serving.

How to Make Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Jell-O Mixture

Begin by mixing the strawberry Jell-O according to the package directions—usually with boiling water followed by cold water. While it’s still liquid, fold in 1 cup of sliced strawberries. Then place this mixture in the refrigerator. It needs to chill until it starts to thicken but isn’t fully set, which typically takes about an hour and a half. This semi-set stage is crucial for soaking in the angel food cake perfectly.

Step 2: Incorporate the Whipped Topping

Once the Jell-O-strawberry mixture has started to gel, gently fold in your frozen whipped topping. This adds an irresistible creamy texture and softens the gelatin’s firmness, turning the dessert into a dreamy, fluffy delight that’s lighter than you might expect.

Step 3: Combine Angel Food Cake with Strawberry Mixture

Tear or cut the angel food cake into large, bite-sized chunks. Toss these chunks into the creamy strawberry mixture, pressing them gently down so they soak up the flavorful liquid without becoming mushy. The cake will absorb just enough moisture to stay tender and flavorful while maintaining its signature airy texture.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Transfer this combined mixture into a casserole or serving dish, spreading it evenly. Top with 5 sliced strawberries for a pretty presentation and a little extra fresh flavor. Cover the dish and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the dessert to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully. After chilling, it’s ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert

Garnishes

Freshness is the name of the game when it comes to garnishing this dessert. I love to add extra sliced strawberries or a few mint leaves on top for a pop of color and an herbal aroma. If you’re feeling a little extra, a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of toasted coconut adds a delightful twist.

Side Dishes

This dessert is quite sweet and light on its own, so it pairs wonderfully with a simple, refreshing side. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette, or a small scoop of lemon sorbet to contrast the creamy texture with a cold, zesty bite.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try layering the components in clear individual glasses for elegant parfaits. You can also scoop portions into delicate bowls and add an edible flower for a stunning table centerpiece. The airy nature of the dessert makes it flexible to present in many charming ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once prepared, the Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing other odors. The cake may soften over time, but this just makes each bite even more luscious.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for this dessert because the whipped topping and Jell-O can change texture, becoming icy or watery when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh within a couple of days.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this dessert since it’s meant to be served cold and refreshing. Just pull it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving if it’s been chilled, so it’s not too cold to fully enjoy the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream will give the dessert an even richer texture and flavor. Just be sure it’s stabilized so it doesn’t weep or separate as the dessert chills.

Can I substitute other flavors of Jell-O?

Yes, you can experiment with different fruit-flavored gelatin to give your Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert a unique twist. However, the strawberry flavor pairs best with fresh berries and angel food cake.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Definitely choose a gluten-free angel food cake, which some specialty bakeries or stores offer, or try making your own gluten-free version. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How long does it take for the dessert to set?

The Jell-O mixture begins setting in about 1 ½ hours, but after everything is combined, chilling for 1-2 hours ensures the dessert is firm and flavors mingle perfectly.

Can I add other fruits besides strawberries?

You sure can. Blueberries, raspberries, or even kiwi would add lovely bursts of flavor and color. Just be mindful that the strawberry Jell-O flavor remains the star.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert has become a beloved favorite in my home because it’s truly a no-fuss treat that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The balance of airy cake, creamy whipped topping, and juicy strawberries is simply irresistible. I cannot recommend giving this recipe a try enough—whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you want to brighten your day with a little sweetness. You’re going to love it!

Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A light and refreshing Strawberry Angel Food Cake dessert featuring fluffy angel food cake chunks soaked in strawberry Jell-O mixed with whipped topping, topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for a simple, no-bake summertime treat that’s airy and sweet.

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Mixture

3 oz strawberry Jell-O
1 cup sliced strawberries

Cake and Topping

8” store-bought angel food cake (about 7 cups, torn into chunks)
3 cups frozen whipped topping
5 sliced strawberries (for topping)

Instructions

Prepare Strawberry Jell-O: Mix the strawberry Jell-O powder according to the package instructions, typically involving dissolving it in boiling water, then adding cold water. Once mixed, stir in 1 cup of sliced fresh strawberries. Refrigerate the mixture until it begins to set but is still slightly liquid, which usually takes about 1 ½ hours.
Add Whipped Topping: When the Jell-O mixture is nearly set but still soft, gently fold in the 3 cups of frozen whipped topping to combine and create a creamy strawberry mixture.
Incorporate Angel Food Cake: Tear the angel food cake into large chunks and gently press them into the strawberry and whipped topping mixture, allowing the cake to soak up some of the liquid. Stir lightly to distribute the cake pieces evenly without breaking them down too much.
Assemble and Chill: Transfer the combined dessert mixture into a casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining 5 sliced strawberries for garnish. Cover the dish and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dessert is fully set.
Serve: Once chilled and set, slice and serve this airy, fruity dessert chilled. Enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries for a bright, natural flavor.
If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen sliced strawberries work as well but may add extra liquid.
Store leftover dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Angel food cake can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
For a lower sugar version, use sugar-free strawberry gelatin and reduced-fat whipped topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American