Strawberry Angel Cake
A Light and Dreamy Dessert
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s airy, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, this Strawberry Angel Cake is a must-try! Made with fluffy angel food cake, luscious strawberries, and a creamy whipped topping, it’s the perfect treat for spring and summer gatherings—or any time you want something light yet indulgent.
My Love Affair with This Dish
Strawberry shortcake was a staple at our family picnics, but I always wished for something even lighter. That’s how I fell in love with Strawberry Angel Cake! Instead of a denser biscuit base, the angel food cake is soft, cloud-like, and soaks up all the sweet strawberry juices beautifully.
What makes this version special? The combination of homemade (or store-bought) angel food cake with macerated strawberries and a rich yet airy whipped topping creates a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Plus, it’s so easy to make and looks absolutely stunning on a dessert table!
Ingredient Notes
- Angel food cake: Store-bought or homemade both work well.
- Fresh strawberries: Sweet, ripe berries bring the best flavor.
- Sugar: Helps the strawberries release their natural juices.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and enhances the strawberry flavor.
- Whipped cream or Cool Whip: Provides a creamy, dreamy texture.
- Vanilla extract: A little touch adds depth to the whipped topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and toss them with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to release their juices.
- Prepare the Cake: If using a store-bought cake, slice it into layers or cubes for easy serving.
- Make the Whipped Topping: Beat heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the angel food cake with strawberries and whipped cream, repeating as needed.
- Chill & Serve: Let it chill for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use cold heavy cream. It whips up faster and holds its shape better.
- Don’t skip the maceration. Allowing the strawberries to sit with sugar brings out their natural sweetness and creates a syrupy sauce.
- Slice the cake with a serrated knife. This prevents it from getting crushed.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can also:
- Add a drizzle of strawberry sauce or chocolate.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: While the cake itself freezes well, the strawberries and whipped topping do not. Freeze the cake separately and assemble fresh.
- Reheating: Best served chilled, but if using frozen cake, let it thaw at room temperature before assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries provide the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them first.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until serving.
What’s a good substitute for whipped cream? Greek yogurt or a mix of cream cheese and sugar can work for a tangy twist.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Angel Cake is a dessert that feels like a sweet, fluffy dream. Whether you’re serving it for a party, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it out and let me know how you make it your own!
PrintStrawberry Angel Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10–14servings (adjusted from standard 8 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Angel Cake is a light, dreamy dessert made with fluffy angel food cake, sweet macerated strawberries, and a creamy whipped topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this easy-to-make treat is both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
-
For the Cake:
- 1 store-bought or homemade angel food cake
-
For the Strawberries:
- 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream (or use Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Macerate the Strawberries
- In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Stir well and let sit for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the strawberries to release their natural juices and create a syrup.
2. Prepare the Whipped Topping
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2–3 minutes).
- Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Slice the angel food cake into layers or cubes.
- If layering, place the bottom cake layer on a serving plate and top with a layer of macerated strawberries and some whipped cream. Repeat with the remaining layers.
- If serving in a trifle or bowl, alternate layers of cake cubes, strawberries, and whipped cream.
4. Chill & Serve
- Let the assembled cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with extra strawberries or mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- Use cold heavy cream for the best whipped texture.
- Let the strawberries sit longer if you want more syrup for soaking into the cake.
- Slice angel food cake with a serrated knife to prevent it from getting crushed
Nutrition
- Calories: ~210 kcal
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g