No Bake Cake Dessert

Prep: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A light, fruity no-bake dessert featuring angel food cake, pineapple, Cool Whip, and nuts, perfect for easy gatherings and satisfying sweet cravings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large angel food cake
  • 2 envelopes Knox gelatine
  • 2 flat cans crushed pineapple
  • 1 quart Cool Whip
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the gelatine in 1/4 cup cold water.
  2. Add 1 cup boiling water and juice from the pineapple to the gelatine and stir until dissolved.
  3. Let the mixture cool until it starts to jell.
  4. Add crushed pineapple, 3/4 of the Cool Whip, and chopped nuts to the gelatine mixture and mix well.
  5. Crumble half of the angel food cake and place it in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
  6. Spoon half of the pineapple mixture over the cake layer.
  7. Crush down to cover all the cake with the pineapple mixture.
  8. Crumble the remaining half of the cake over the first layer.
  9. Spread the remaining pineapple mixture over the crumbled cake.
  10. Top with the remaining Cool Whip and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
  11. Refrigerate until set before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure the gelatine sets properly, let it cool completely before mixing with the pineapple and Cool Whip. Consider using fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor, but remember to use a gelatin alternative if you want to keep it vegan. If you're looking for a lighter dessert, substitute the Cool Whip with a homemade whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version. This no bake cake dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped nuts or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added texture. This dessert pairs beautifully with a glass of Womens Guild Punch, making it an ideal choice for summer picnics or potlucks. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the dessert begins to lose its texture, serve it cold to retain the best flavor. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change and become watery upon thawing. For best results, consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of No Bake Cake Dessert contains roughly 73 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.

73 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 5.9g 8% DV
Carbs 5.3g 2% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3.4mg
Potassium 77.8mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 1.3mg 1% DV
Calcium 4.2mg
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

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 substitute angel food cake with a sponge cake or pound cake for a denser texture. However, keep in mind that this will alter the overall lightness of the dessert. If you choose a denser cake, you might want to adjust the gelatine mixture to ensure it holds the layers well.

How long does this dessert need to set in the refrigerator?

The dessert typically requires at least 4 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the gelatine fully sets, making it easier to slice and serve.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

Yes, to make this dessert vegan, use a plant-based whipped topping instead of Cool Whip and replace the gelatine with a vegan alternative like agar-agar. Ensure that the angel food cake is also vegan, or consider making a vegan sponge cake to substitute. This will maintain the delicious layers while catering to a vegan diet.

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).

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