Strawberry Dream
A luscious layered dessert combining angel food cake, strawberries, and creamy pudding, topped with whipped cream, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear the angel food cake into pieces and place them in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Mix the strawberry jello according to the package directions, using 3 cups of water.
- Pour the prepared jello over the cake pieces in the pan.
- Add the frozen strawberries and chopped pecans on top of the jello layer.
- Mix the vanilla instant pudding according to the package directions, using 3 cups of milk.
- Pour the pudding over the strawberries and pecans layer.
- Top the dessert with Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. If you're short on time, you can use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones, although frozen berries will give a nice texture. To add a crunch, substitute chopped pecans with walnuts or almonds. This dessert can also be made in individual cups for a fun presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Strawberry Dream chilled, garnished with additional strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a delightful touch. It pairs beautifully with Jimmie'S Fried Chicken for a contrasting savory dish. This dessert is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and can be made a day in advance to save time.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert may lose some of its texture over time, but it will still be delicious. Avoid freezing, as the cream and pudding layers may separate when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry Dream contains roughly 376 calories, with 6g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberry jello complements the dessert perfectly, feel free to experiment with other flavors like raspberry or peach. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the overall taste and color of the dessert.
Is there a way to make this dessert lighter?
Yes! You can use low-fat or sugar-free versions of the pudding and jello. Additionally, substituting the Cool Whip with Mock Whipped Cream Frosting can reduce calories while still providing a delicious topping.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Definitely! Strawberry Dream can be made up to a day ahead of time. Just assemble it as directed and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
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).