Luann'S Strawberry Dessert
A light, fruity dessert featuring angel food cake, fresh strawberries, and a strawberry jello mixture, perfect for a refreshing treat suited for gatherings or casual occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange half of the angel food cake, torn into pieces, in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Dissolve the strawberry jello in 2 cups of hot water without adding cold water.
- Let the jello cool and slightly thicken.
- Stir in the fresh or frozen strawberries into the cooled jello.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites to meringue consistency.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the jello mixture, then add in the container of Cool Whip.
- Pour the mixture over the cake in the pan.
- Refrigerate until served.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks before folding them into the jello mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made whipped topping instead of Cool Whip. Fresh strawberries work best, but frozen strawberries can be a convenient substitute. For a twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice to enhance the strawberry flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings and pairs beautifully with a light salad or a slice of Pineapple-Cheese Bread. Serve it with a dollop of additional whipped topping and a sprinkle of fresh strawberries on top for an elegant presentation. It's a delightful finish to a summer BBQ or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. If the dessert is too set after refrigerating, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Luann'S Strawberry Dessert contains roughly 80 calories, with 7g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 fruit instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even tropical fruits like mango. Just keep in mind that the flavor and color of the jello will change slightly based on the fruit you choose.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert holds up well when made a day ahead of time. Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
Is there a gluten-free version of this dessert?
Yes, this dessert is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free angel food cake. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients, including jello and whipped topping, to ensure they are gluten-free.
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).