Instant Pie
A luscious layered strawberry and jello dessert with angel food cake, perfect for summer gatherings or light, sweet treats that impress with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the water, cornstarch, and sugar to a boil.
- Add the instant jello and boil again until dissolved.
- Crumble the angel food cake in a 13 x 9-inch pan to create the base layer.
- Mix Dream Whip, cream cheese, and powdered sugar together until smooth.
- Layer sliced strawberries and glaze onto the cake layer, then repeat the layering process.
- Top the final layer with strawberries and glaze before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the glaze thickens properly, make sure to stir continuously while bringing the water, cornstarch, and sugar to a boil. For a lighter option, you can substitute Dream Whip with whipped coconut cream. For added flavor, consider using vanilla extract in the cream cheese mixture. This Instant Pie can also be made with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Instant Pie chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with Baked Apple Slices for a delightful dessert duo. Consider accompanying it with a glass of Happy Time Punch for a refreshing beverage that complements the sweetness of the pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The layers may soften over time, so it's best to consume it fresh. If you need to reheat any portion, use the microwave in short intervals to avoid melting the cream cheese layer too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Instant Pie contains roughly 419 calories, with 2g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake instead of angel food cake?
Yes, you can use a sponge cake or pound cake if you prefer. Just ensure that the cake is light enough to complement the creamy layers and strawberries. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make this Instant Pie gluten-free, use a gluten-free angel food cake mix or make your own from scratch using gluten-free flour. Additionally, verify that the instant jello and powdered sugar are gluten-free, as most brands are.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Just layer it fully and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld nicely, but it's best to add the final layer of strawberries right before serving for freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).