Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert

Name: Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups egg whites (from about 10-12 eggs); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: From the Oven

I love indulging in light and fluffy desserts, and this Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert is one of my favorites. The combination of airy angel food cake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream creates a truly divine treat. I appreciate how easy it is to put together, yet it looks so impressive. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this dessert is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s refreshing and perfect for summer gatherings or picnics!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:10:35.511Z

When I first decided to make this Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert, I was inspired by the fresh strawberries overflowing at the local market. The idea of combining them with a light angel food cake seemed irresistible. I opted for homemade whipped cream to heighten the flavors, and the results were nothing short of fantastic. It’s amazing how the layers come together to create such a delightful presentation that truly impresses anyone who tries it.

One tip I noticed is to allow the angel food cake to cool completely before layering. This makes a significant difference in the overall texture and prevents any mushiness from the strawberries. I also suggest using ripe strawberries for the best flavor, as they provide that perfect balance of sweetness against the airy cake. Enjoy this dessert chilled for the most refreshing experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fluffy angel food cake melts in your mouth.
Fresh strawberries create a burst of flavor.
Light and airy dessert perfect for warm days.

Understanding Angel Food Cake

Angel food cake is famous for its light and airy texture, achieved primarily by whipping egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its signature fluffiness. It's crucial to ensure no yolk gets into the whites, as fat can impede the aeration process. Use a clean metal or glass bowl for whipping; avoid plastic bowls, as they might retain grease, affecting the egg whites' ability to whip up properly.

Once your batter is ready, pouring it into an ungreased tube pan is essential. The cake needs the sides to cling to allow for upward growth while baking. Inverting the pan after baking ensures the cake cools properly without collapsing, helping keep that delightful airy structure. It’s important to allow it to cool completely. For best results, let it sit for at least an hour to ensure it doesn't deflate.

Whipping the Cream

Whipping the cream is a critical step in this recipe, adding both texture and sweetness to balance the light cake and fresh strawberries. Start with cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl to achieve ideal volume; this makes a significant difference in how fluffy the whipped cream will become. Beat the cream until soft peaks form, and be careful not to over-whip it, as this can lead to a grainy texture or even butter if whipped beyond the right point.

Adding powdered sugar and vanilla during whipping not only sweetens the cream but also facilitates a smooth consistency. Taste your whipped cream as you go; you can adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if necessary. This creamy topping complements the cake and the tart freshness of the strawberries, working together to create a delightful layered experience.

Layering and Serving Tips

When assembling your Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert, consider cutting the cake into even layers for a more visually appealing presentation. Using a serrated knife to slice through the airy cake gently will prevent crumbling. Start with cake pieces at the bottom of your serving dish, followed by a generous layer of strawberries and whipped cream, repeating the process until you finish with cream. Make sure the last layer is cream, as it creates a beautiful finish and helps stabilize the layers beneath.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the top with whole or halved strawberries, mint leaves, or a drizzle of strawberry sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also the presentation. Allowing the dessert to chill for at least an hour helps the flavors to meld perfectly, ensuring each bite is refreshing. This dessert is best enjoyed within a day or two but can last up to three days in the refrigerator with proper storage.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups egg whites (from about 10-12 eggs)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For the Layers

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, then add the cream of tartar and continue whipping until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sifted sugar mixture, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in the vanilla extract gently.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Invert the pan to cool completely.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

While the cake cools, in a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the cake is completely cool, cut it into layers. In a serving dish, layer cake pieces, sliced strawberries, and whipped cream. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For best results, use in-season strawberries for a sweeter taste. Also, ensure that your whipping cream is cold prior to whipping to achieve the best texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for gatherings. You can bake and cool the angel food cake a day ahead; just remember to store it in the tube pan, inverted, to keep it from flattening. The whipped cream can also be made a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

As for the strawberries, slice them just before you're ready to assemble the dessert to prevent them from becoming soggy. If you find leftover dessert, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dessert can keep for about 2-3 days, but keep in mind that as it sits, the layers might start to blend, which can alter the texture slightly.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for gluten-free options, it is possible to substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure that the blend you choose contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the texture of regular flour in this dessert. Additionally, for a reduced-sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or a monk fruit sweetener, adjusting quantities according to the brand's instructions.

For a dairy-free version, switch the heavy cream for coconut cream, which can be whipped similarly and provides a rich flavor. If you want a more straightforward option, look for pre-made dairy-free whipped toppings available in grocery stores. With these substitutions, you can still enjoy the delightful experience of this dessert without compromising on dietary preferences.

Creative Variations

Once you've mastered the basic Strawberry Angel Food Cake Layer Dessert, you can easily experiment with variations. Try adding different fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to introduce new flavors and colors. A splash of lemon or orange zest in the whipped cream can also add a refreshing citrus note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Alternatively, you can layer in a cream cheese mixture for added richness. Mix equal parts of cream cheese and whipped cream, sweetening to taste, for an indulgent variation. This change enhances the flavor profile and provides a decadent twist. With these variations, you can customize the dessert to fit seasonal ingredients or personal preferences, keeping it exciting every time you bring it to the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day before and store it in the fridge, then layer it with the strawberries and cream on the day you plan to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches.

→ What if my cake collapses?

Make sure to let the cake cool upside down and avoid greasing the pan. This helps it retain its structure.