Strawberry Angel Dessert Recipe: Easy No-Bake Summer Treat

There’s something about strawberry desserts that just feels like a warm, sunny day in a dish. Maybe it’s the fresh, juicy berries, or the way they pair so effortlessly with light, fluffy cake and creamy layers. Whatever it is, this Strawberry Angel Dessert captures all the best parts of summer in every bite. It’s airy, fruity, rich without being too heavy, and the kind of dessert that makes people come back for seconds (and thirds, if we’re being honest).

This recipe is a longtime family favorite in my household, especially during warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. I first tasted a version of this dessert at a church potluck years ago, and I immediately knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few tweaks and experiments in the kitchen, this is the version that stuck—and now, it’s the one we make every spring and summer without fail.

What makes this Strawberry Angel Dessert extra special is how beautifully the layers come together. You get the soft sweetness of torn angel food cake, a smooth and slightly tangy cream cheese layer that gives it structure and richness, and a glossy, homemade strawberry glaze that soaks into everything just enough to tie it all together. Every bite is creamy, slightly chewy from the cake, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.

And the best part? It’s a no-bake dessert, so you don’t need to heat up your kitchen to make it. Whether you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue, a special occasion, or just need something refreshing to end the day, this dessert fits the bill. It looks beautiful in a 9×13 dish, and it’s just the kind of showstopper that makes people think you spent way more time on it than you actually did.

So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s light, easy, and guaranteed to please a crowd, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why you’re going to fall in love with this Strawberry Angel Dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Angel Dessert Recipe

This Strawberry Angel Dessert is one of those recipes that just checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, it feeds a crowd, and it has that perfect combination of flavors and textures that keep you coming back for another spoonful. Here’s exactly why this one deserves a spot in your dessert rotation.

First of all, it’s incredibly easy to make. There’s no baking required, and almost every ingredient is easy to find at any grocery store. That makes it a great option when you’re short on time or energy but still want to serve something homemade and memorable. From start to finish, you’re looking at just a few steps—most of which involve mixing and layering.

Second, it’s totally crowd-pleasing. This is one of those desserts that both kids and adults will love. The light and airy angel food cake makes it feel delicate, the cream cheese adds just the right amount of richness, and the Cool Whip keeps things fluffy and smooth. And of course, strawberries are universally loved. Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering, a picnic, or just after dinner, it’s bound to disappear fast.

Then there’s the texture. Each bite is soft and creamy, with a little bit of chew from the cake and just enough bite from the glaze-covered strawberries. The contrast between the cool cream layer and the juicy berries makes this dessert feel refreshing and indulgent all at once.

And let’s talk about versatility. You can make this dessert ahead of time, which means no scrambling at the last minute. In fact, letting it chill for a few hours only makes it better, as the flavors have time to meld together and the layers set beautifully. It’s also super customizable—you can play around with different fruits or even add a little crunch with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or graham crackers on top.

All in all, this is the kind of dessert that feels fancy but is completely foolproof. You don’t need to be an experienced baker to make it turn out perfectly, and it’s guaranteed to get compliments every time you serve it.

Health Benefits

While this Strawberry Angel Dessert is definitely a treat, it also comes with a few surprising benefits, especially compared to more traditional heavy desserts. Let’s take a closer look at what you’re actually getting with each delicious bite.

First up: strawberries. These vibrant red berries aren’t just sweet and delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They’re also a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied. Because this recipe uses fresh strawberries rather than a sugary canned filling, you get all the natural benefits of the fruit without any unnecessary preservatives.

Next, let’s talk about the angel food cake. Unlike many other cakes, angel food is made without butter or egg yolks, which means it’s naturally lower in fat. It’s also quite light in texture, which makes it easier to digest and a little gentler on your stomach after a big meal. While it does contain sugar, the overall fat content is significantly lower than heavier cakes like pound cake or cheesecake.

The cream cheese layer brings a bit of richness to the dish, but you can always use reduced-fat cream cheese if you want to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor. Cream cheese also provides a small amount of protein and calcium, which are beneficial for bone health and muscle maintenance.

Cool Whip, while processed, is lower in calories than traditional whipped cream. It adds that light, creamy texture without overwhelming the dish. You can even opt for the “light” or “sugar-free” versions if you’re looking to reduce overall sugar and calorie content.

Finally, the glaze made from Jell-O and cornstarch does add some sugar, but it’s also what brings everything together. If you want to reduce sugar even more, there are low-sugar or sugar-free gelatin options available that work just as well.

So, while this dessert definitely leans on the indulgent side, it’s a lighter alternative to traditional cream-based or baked desserts. It offers a nice balance between indulgence and nutrition, especially when you focus on the natural goodness of the strawberries and the lightness of the cake.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you dive into mixing and layering, it’s helpful to know what to expect in terms of timing, servings, and nutritional breakdown. Here’s a simple overview to guide your planning.

Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 to 3 hours
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours including chill time

Servings:
This recipe serves approximately 12 generous portions. If you’re serving a crowd or cutting smaller pieces, you could stretch it to about 15.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 32g
Fiber: 1.5g
Calcium: 4% DV
Vitamin C: 50% DV

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredient variations you use. If you choose to use light or sugar-free versions of Cool Whip or cream cheese, the calories and sugar content will decrease accordingly.

Having these numbers in mind helps if you’re tracking your intake or just trying to be mindful of your portions. Despite being a treat, this dessert fits into most meal plans as an occasional indulgence, especially when paired with a light main course.

Ingredients List

Let’s break down everything you’ll need for this Strawberry Angel Dessert. Each component plays a specific role, and together, they build those delicious layers you’re going to love.

1 angel food cake, torn into 1-inch pieces
Angel food cake forms the base of this dessert. Its light, airy texture makes it the perfect foundation because it soaks up just enough moisture without getting soggy. You can use store-bought or homemade cake for this recipe. If using pre-packaged, make sure it’s fresh and soft.

1 (16 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
Cool Whip adds that creamy, dreamy texture. You’ll use half to mix with the cake and the other half to blend with the cream cheese layer. If you prefer, you can substitute with stabilized whipped cream, but Cool Whip is convenient and holds up well.

8 oz cream cheese, softened
This adds a rich, slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake and strawberries. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature so it blends easily.

1 cup sugar, divided
You’ll use half a cup in the strawberry glaze and the other half in the cream cheese layer. Sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries and smooths out the tang of the cream cheese.

1 tsp vanilla extract
Just a teaspoon adds a warm, comforting note that rounds out the cream layer. Use pure vanilla extract if possible for the best flavor.

1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced
Fresh strawberries are the star here. Choose ripe, juicy berries for maximum flavor. Slice them evenly so they distribute well in the glaze.

3 tbsp cornstarch
This helps thicken the strawberry glaze, giving it that glossy finish and perfect consistency to coat the berries and sit on top of the dessert.

1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O
Jell-O adds a boost of strawberry flavor and helps the glaze set into a smooth, cohesive layer. You can use a sugar-free version if you prefer.

1 tbsp lemon juice
A little bit of lemon juice brightens the glaze and enhances the strawberry flavor. It also adds a subtle tang that balances the overall sweetness.

1 cup water
Used in the glaze, water helps dissolve the sugar, cornstarch, and Jell-O powder. It’s the base liquid that pulls the whole sauce together.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready to go, let’s walk through how to turn them into a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert. The steps are simple and easy to follow—even if you’re brand new to the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Strawberry Angel Dessert might look impressive, but it’s honestly one of the easiest and most rewarding desserts you can pull together. We’ll walk through each part of the process step by step, so you know exactly what to do and what to expect along the way.

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Glaze

The glaze is the bright red, sweet-tart topping that brings this whole dessert together. It clings to the strawberries and adds a rich, jammy layer of flavor.

What you’ll need for this step:

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

Instructions:

1. Grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat.
2. Add in the sugar, cornstarch, Jell-O powder, lemon juice, and water all at once. Stir well to combine everything.
3. Keep stirring constantly. The mixture will start out watery and grainy, but as it heats, you’ll notice it thickening. Don’t walk away—it’s important to keep stirring to avoid lumps or burning.
4. After a few minutes, it will come to a gentle boil. Let it bubble for about one minute while continuing to stir. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks glossy and slightly thick—like a light jelly.
5. Remove from the heat and let it cool for about 10–15 minutes before adding the strawberries. It should still be pourable, but not hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Once your glaze has cooled a bit, it’s time to fold in the star of the show—fresh strawberries.

What you’ll need for this step:

• 1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions:

1. Wash the strawberries gently under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Remove the green tops and slice each strawberry into even, thin slices. You want them to be bite-sized so they distribute nicely through the glaze.
3. Gently fold the strawberries into the glaze. Be careful not to over-mix or smash them—you want them to stay in nice slices.
4. Set the strawberry-glaze mixture aside while you build the other layers.

Step 3: Build the Cake Base Layer

Now that the top layer is prepped and waiting, let’s turn our attention to the base. This step gives you that soft, sponge-like texture that soaks in all the flavors.

What you’ll need for this step:

• 1 angel food cake, torn into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups Cool Whip (from your 16 oz container)

Instructions:

1. Tear your angel food cake into bite-sized chunks, about 1-inch in size. Don’t cut them too small—you want them to hold their shape.
2. In a large bowl, add the torn pieces and 2 cups of Cool Whip.
3. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently fold the Cool Whip into the cake pieces. Be careful not to mash the cake. You want it coated, not soggy.
4. Once evenly mixed, press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Use clean hands or the back of a spoon to gently flatten it into an even layer.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

This layer adds a smooth, tangy balance to the sweet strawberries and fluffy cake. It holds the dessert together and gives it a more “complete” flavor profile.

What you’ll need for this step:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Remaining Cool Whip (about 2 cups)

Instructions:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Gently fold in the remaining Cool Whip. The texture should be fluffy and creamy—not too stiff, not too runny.
4. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer in your dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out all the way to the edges.

Step 5: Add the Strawberry Topping

This is where the magic really happens. The strawberries and glaze finish things off with a glossy, irresistible finish.

Instructions:

1. Carefully spoon the strawberry-glaze mixture over the cream cheese layer.
2. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the strawberries into an even layer. Make sure every inch is covered.
3. If you want a more dramatic finish, arrange some of the strawberry slices facing up for a pretty presentation.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Now it’s time to let everything come together in the fridge. This step allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to blend beautifully.

Instructions:

1. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours. If you have the time, overnight is even better—the dessert slices more cleanly and tastes even more delicious the next day.
3. When ready to serve, cut into squares using a sharp knife. For extra clean slices, wipe the knife clean between cuts.

And there you have it—the perfect, no-bake Strawberry Angel Dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better.

How to Serve

This dessert is beautiful right out of the fridge and easy to portion into neat squares. Because it has such a light and fluffy texture, it works perfectly for a variety of serving styles depending on the occasion.

Serve it straight from the dish for a casual gathering or potluck. The 9×13 pan is perfect for scooping and slicing, and the layers hold up well if the dessert has been properly chilled.

For a fancier presentation, you can cut the dessert into clean squares and serve them on individual plates. Add a little swirl of whipped cream on the side or a few mint leaves for a pop of color.

You can also serve this in individual glass jars or dessert cups. Layer the cake mixture, cream cheese layer, and strawberries for cute single-servings that are great for picnics or parties.

No matter how you serve it, don’t forget to keep the dish chilled until right before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed cold when the layers are set and the cream is perfectly soft.

Pairing Suggestions

This light dessert pairs well with a wide variety of drinks and meals, making it incredibly flexible. Here are a few ideas for how to round out the experience.

After-Dinner Pairings:

• Serve after a light grilled chicken or fish dinner. The cool, fruity sweetness is a perfect contrast to savory meals.
• It’s also great after something spicy or bold—like BBQ chicken—because the creaminess cools the palate.

Beverage Pairings:

• Iced tea, especially something fruity like peach or raspberry, goes beautifully with the strawberry flavors.
• A cold glass of sparkling water with a lemon wedge keeps things fresh and hydrating.
• For a kid-friendly combo, pair it with cold milk or strawberry lemonade.

Snack or Brunch Pairings:

• Serve a small square alongside a fruit salad or yogurt parfait for a lighter brunch treat.
• It also works well with a side of buttery croissants or scones if you’re making it part of a more indulgent spread.

This dessert plays well in almost any setting—it’s flexible, friendly, and easy to match with your favorite foods or drinks.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Strawberry Angel Dessert—aside from how amazing it tastes—is how well it stores. Whether you’re making it ahead of time or hoping for leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any), this dessert holds up beautifully in the fridge and can even be frozen with a few simple steps.

How to Store in the Fridge

If you’re planning to enjoy this dessert over a few days, the refrigerator is your best friend.

After assembling the full dessert, make sure it’s tightly covered. Use plastic wrap or foil to seal the top of your 9×13-inch dish. If you’re using a baking dish with a lid, even better.

Store the dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Beyond that, the strawberries might start to release too much moisture, and the texture could become overly soft. The flavors will still be there, but the layers may not hold as firmly.

When you’re ready to serve again, just remove it from the fridge, slice, and enjoy. No reheating required—this dessert is meant to be served chilled.

How to Freeze

Freezing is an option if you’d like to make the dessert well ahead of time or save a few slices for later.

To freeze the entire dessert, first let it chill and set completely in the fridge for a few hours. Then cover it with a double layer of plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Label it with the date, and place it in the freezer.

Alternatively, cut the dessert into individual portions, place them in airtight containers, and freeze them separately. This is a great way to grab a single serving when you want a quick treat.

Frozen dessert will keep well for about 2 months.

How to Thaw

To thaw, transfer the dessert from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let it thaw overnight or for at least 6 to 8 hours. Do not thaw at room temperature, as this could make the strawberries watery and the cream layer unstable.

Once thawed, serve as usual. The texture may be slightly softer than fresh, but the flavor will still be delicious.

This make-ahead flexibility makes Strawberry Angel Dessert a reliable choice for events, parties, or even busy weeks when you want something sweet on hand.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with an easy recipe like this one, a few common pitfalls can sneak in and affect your final result. Luckily, they’re easy to avoid once you know what to look for. Here are the top mistakes people make—and how you can make sure your dessert turns out perfect every time.

Using Hot Glaze on the Strawberries

If you add fresh strawberries to the glaze before it’s cooled, the heat can make them mushy and dull in color. Always let the glaze cool slightly before folding in the sliced berries. This keeps them vibrant and fresh-looking in the final dish.

Not Letting the Dessert Chill Long Enough

This dessert really needs those 2–3 hours in the fridge to set. Cutting into it too early will give you runny layers and a messy presentation. Plan ahead and give it enough time to chill thoroughly.

Overmixing the Cake with Cool Whip

When you mix the angel food cake with Cool Whip, be gentle. Overmixing can cause the cake pieces to break down too much and turn mushy. Fold just until the cake is coated, then stop.

Using Frozen Strawberries

While frozen strawberries might seem like a convenient option, they release a lot of moisture as they thaw. That excess liquid can make the glaze watery and throw off the texture of your top layer. Always go with fresh berries if possible.

Skipping the Softening Step for Cream Cheese

Trying to beat cold cream cheese results in a lumpy cream layer. Be sure to let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before mixing. This step is key for that smooth, velvety texture.

By watching out for these simple things, you’ll ensure that your dessert looks beautiful and tastes even better.

Pro Tips

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s take it up a notch with some expert tips that can elevate your Strawberry Angel Dessert to the next level. These are the little things that make a big difference and can help you feel more confident whether you’re making this for the first time or the fiftieth.

Use a Serrated Knife for the Angel Food Cake

When tearing the angel food cake into pieces, you can use your hands for a rustic texture, but if you prefer cleaner edges, a serrated knife works great. It helps maintain the fluffy structure of the cake without squishing it down.

Stabilize Your Cream Layer (Optional)

If you want your cream cheese layer to stay firmer and slice super clean, you can mix in a tablespoon of instant vanilla pudding powder. It subtly enhances the flavor and helps the texture stay perfect, especially on warm days.

Let It Sit Overnight for Best Flavor

Although 2 to 3 hours of chilling is the minimum, this dessert actually gets better if you let it chill overnight. The flavors deepen, and the layers meld together even more beautifully. It also cuts much cleaner the next day.

Try a Different Fruit for a Twist

Strawberries are classic, but you can switch things up with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries. Just keep the quantities and glaze method the same, and you’ll have a delicious twist that still works with the overall recipe.

Use a Glass Dish for Presentation

This dessert is layered and colorful, so a clear glass baking dish really shows off those vibrant reds and creamy whites. It’s perfect if you’re taking it to a potluck or serving guests at home.

Following these tips makes an already-great recipe feel like something you’d find in a fancy bakery display—except you made it yourself, and way more affordably.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You’ve got questions? Let’s get them answered. Here are some of the most common ones people ask about this Strawberry Angel Dessert, with straightforward tips to help you troubleshoot and adapt as needed.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dessert is ideal for making ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight in the fridge only improves the texture and flavor. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered so it doesn’t absorb any odors from the fridge.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, but there’s a catch. Homemade whipped cream isn’t stabilized, so it won’t hold up as well over time. If you’re serving the dessert the same day, it’s a great alternative. Otherwise, stick with Cool Whip or use a stabilizer like gelatin or instant pudding in your whipped cream.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?

Fresh is definitely best for this recipe, but if they’re out of season, you could use thawed frozen strawberries that have been drained very well. Just keep in mind the texture will be softer, and the glaze might turn a bit thinner due to the extra moisture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. You can easily substitute a gluten-free angel food cake (store-bought or homemade). Most other ingredients, like Cool Whip, cream cheese, and Jell-O, are naturally gluten-free, but double-check the labels to be sure.

How do I keep the cream layer from getting too runny?

The key is to make sure your cream cheese is softened but not warm, and don’t overfold the Cool Whip into the mixture. Also, let the dessert chill for the full 2 to 3 hours so the layer can firm up properly.

Can I cut this recipe in half?

Yes. Just use an 8×8-inch square dish instead of a 9×13 and halve all the ingredients. It’s perfect if you’re serving a smaller group or just don’t need quite as many servings.

Is this dessert halal?

Yes. This recipe does not contain alcohol, pork, or any non-halal ingredients. As always, if you’re buying packaged ingredients like Jell-O or Cool Whip, check that they are halal-certified or suitable for your dietary preferences.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can, with a few swaps. Use a dairy-free whipped topping, a vegan cream cheese substitute, and a dairy-free angel food cake. The texture will be a little different, but the flavors still work beautifully.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Absolutely. If you want a little texture contrast, sprinkle crushed graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or chopped nuts over the strawberry layer before serving.

How long does it last?

It stays fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and up to 2 months in the freezer. After that, the texture starts to break down a bit, but the flavor remains delicious.

Conclusion & Call to Action

So there you have it—your complete guide to making the most refreshing, crowd-pleasing, no-bake Strawberry Angel Dessert. With layers of airy angel food cake, creamy whipped filling, and that glossy strawberry topping, it’s one of those treats that hits all the right notes: light, sweet, tangy, creamy, and totally irresistible.

It’s easy enough for beginners and impressive enough for celebrations. Whether you’re bringing it to a gathering or just surprising your family with something special, this recipe never fails to delight. Plus, it’s flexible, make-ahead friendly, and perfect for warm weather when no one wants to turn on the oven.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you make it for a birthday? A weekend BBQ? A cozy night in with family? Drop your story in the comments or tag me on your favorite social platform—I seriously can’t wait to see your creations.

And if you’ve got your own twist on this classic, share that too. One of the best parts of cooking is learning from each other and discovering new ways to enjoy old favorites.

Until next time—happy layering, and enjoy every single spoonful!

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