Description
This Strawberry Angel Food Dessert is a light and airy layered treat featuring fluffy angel food cake, a creamy sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping mixture, and fresh macerated strawberries. Perfect for a refreshing summer dessert, it combines simple ingredients into an elegant trifle that is both delightful and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Angel Food Cake
- 1 box (10 oz) angel food cake mix
- 1 ¼ cups water (or as per cake mix instructions)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for macerating the strawberries)
Instructions
- Prepare the Angel Food Cake: Preheat your oven according to the angel food cake box instructions, typically at 350°F (175°C). Mix the angel food cake as directed, usually combining the cake mix with water and vanilla extract. Bake the cake according to the package directions, then allow it to cool completely once done.
- Prepare the Creamy Layer: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain a airy texture.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a bowl, combine the sliced fresh strawberries with the granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes to macerate, allowing the strawberries to release their natural juices and create a sweet syrup.
- Assemble the Dessert: Once the cake has cooled, cut it into small cubes. In a trifle dish or large serving bowl, layer the cake cubes at the bottom. Spread a generous layer of the creamy cream cheese mixture over the cake, then top with the macerated strawberries and their syrup. Repeat layering the cake, cream, and strawberries until all ingredients are used, finishing with the strawberries on top.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy this light and elegant treat.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones if fresh are not available, just thaw and drain excess liquid.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry mixture before macerating.
- This dessert is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Angel food cake can often be found gluten-free; check your packaging if needed.
