Strawberry Jello Angel Food Cake is a delightful and light dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Combining the airy texture of angel food cake with the sweetness of strawberries and the cool creaminess of whipped topping, this dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
This Strawberry Jello Angel Food Cake is a nostalgic favorite that’s both beautiful and tasty. The combination of fluffy angel food cake, fruity Jello, fresh strawberries, and whipped topping makes for a refreshing and light dessert that’s ideal for warm weather. It’s easy to assemble, can be made ahead of time, and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 3 oz package strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 pint fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 8 oz container of whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jello Mixture
- In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the Jello is completely dissolved.
- Add 1/2 cup of cold water to the Jello mixture, stirring to combine.
- Place the bowl in the refrigerator and allow the Jello to cool until it thickens slightly, about 15-20 minutes. It should be the consistency of thick syrup but not fully set.
Step 2: Prepare the Angel Food Cake
- Tear the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the cake pieces, distributing them evenly throughout.
Step 3: Combine the Cake and Jello
- Pour the slightly thickened Jello mixture over the cake and strawberries, tossing gently to coat all the cake pieces with the Jello. Make sure the Jello mixture is evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large trifle bowl, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
- Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake mixture, using a spatula to smooth it out.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the Jello is fully set and the dessert is chilled.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Once the dessert is set, you can garnish it with additional fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added texture.
- Slice and serve this light and refreshing Strawberry Jello Angel Food Cake as a delightful dessert.
Cook’s Notes
- Homemade Angel Food Cake: If you prefer to make your own angel food cake, be sure it is completely cooled before tearing it into pieces.
- Jello Setting Time: Keep an eye on the Jello as it cools. If it starts to set too much, give it a quick whisk to loosen it up before adding it to the cake.
- Whipped Topping: For a homemade touch, you can substitute the store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped cream.
Variations
Mixed Berry Jello Angel Food Cake
Replace the strawberries with a mix of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
Lemon Jello Angel Food Cake
Use lemon Jello instead of strawberry for a tangy and refreshing variation. Pair it with fresh lemon zest and blueberries for a zesty combination.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Jello Cake
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the whipped topping before serving for a decadent chocolate-covered strawberry flavor.
Pineapple Jello Angel Food Cake
Swap the strawberries for crushed pineapple and use pineapple-flavored Jello for a tropical-inspired dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It actually improves as it chills, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The dessert may become slightly softer as it sits, but it will still be delicious.
4. Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different Jello flavors and fruit combinations to suit your taste.
5. Can I make this dessert in individual servings?
Yes, you can assemble the dessert in individual cups or jars for a fun and portable treat. Just divide the ingredients evenly among the containers.
Strawberry Jello Angel Food Cake is a delightful, light, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of fluffy cake, fruity Jello, and creamy topping, this dessert is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic strawberry version or try one of the variations, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this easy-to-make treat!