Quick "No Bake" Cake
A quick and delicious no-bake strawberry cake featuring crumbled angel food cake, fresh strawberries, jello, and whipped topping, perfect for a light, fruity dessert enjoyed anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble the angel food cake and spread it evenly in the bottom of an oblong dish or pan.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water, sugar, crushed strawberries, butter, and cornstarch.
- Cook the mixture until it has thickened; then set aside to cool slightly.
- Dissolve the strawberry jello in 2 cups boiling water and add it to the cooked strawberry mixture.
- While still hot, pour the strawberry and jello mixture over the crumbled cake in the dish.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill until the jello mixture is firm.
- Prepare whipped topping such as Dream Whip or Cool Whip and spread it over the chilled cake to create a frosting effect.
- Chill the assembled cake until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using fresh whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. You can also substitute the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor. If you don't have angel food cake, a sponge cake works as a great alternative. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the cooked strawberry mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light dessert after a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit on the side. For an elegant touch, garnish with mint leaves or drizzle with Supreme Caramel Sauce. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat. Just take it out of the fridge, slice, and serve. If the jello mixture starts to separate from the cake, gently stir it before serving to maintain a uniform texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick "No Bake" Cake contains roughly 327 calories, with 5g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 566mg per serving (25% 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 flavor of jello?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors of jello, such as raspberry or peach, to create a unique cake. Just ensure that the flavor complements the fruit you are using to maintain a balanced taste.
How do I make this cake vegan?
To make this cake vegan, replace the angel food cake with a vegan sponge cake or a homemade version. Use agave syrup or coconut sugar instead of regular sugar, and opt for a plant-based whipped topping. Ensure the jello is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain gelatin derived from animal products.
Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake is ideal for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
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).