Strawberry Layers
A light and fruity layered dessert featuring angel food cake, fresh strawberries, strawberry pie filling, and Cool Whip, perfect for summer gatherings and sweet celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Cool Whip and cream cheese until smooth.
- In a 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole pan, cover the bottom with pieces of angel food cake.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling over the cake.
- Layer the fresh strawberries on top of the pie filling.
- Spread the Cool Whip and cream cheese mixture over the strawberries.
- Garnish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute the Cool Whip with Greek yogurt. Fresh strawberries can be swapped for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor. Ensure the angel food cake is cut into uniform pieces for even layering. If you're short on time, using store-bought cake and pie filling will save you effort without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Layers dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and pairs beautifully with Jello Chiffon for a refreshing meal. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light fruit salad for a complete dessert experience. Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or mint leaves for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften over time, but the flavors will continue to meld. Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing, making it less enjoyable. Serve chilled for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strawberry Layers contains roughly 404 calories, with 10g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% 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 make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert a day in advance. Just layer the ingredients in the casserole dish and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, it's best to add any whipped cream garnishes just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for the strawberry pie filling?
You can use homemade strawberry compote or fresh strawberries mixed with a bit of sugar and cornstarch as an alternative to strawberry pie filling. This allows you to control the sweetness and flavor while keeping the dish fresh and delicious.
Is there a gluten-free option for the cake?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free angel food cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients, like the Cool Whip and pie filling, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without dietary concerns.
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).