How to Make a Strawberry Angel Food Cake Trifle That Everyone Will Love

Sharing is caring!

As winter fades and the days grow longer, the promise of spring brings a longing for fresh, vibrant flavors. What better way to celebrate this transition than with a strawberry angel food cake trifle? This classic dessert blends the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the lightness of homemade angel food cake, and the creaminess of whipped cream into a treat that feels like sunshine in every bite.

Jump to Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link and then make a purchase, I may get a small commission from that sale, at no extra cost to you.

Whether you’re welcoming the first blooms of spring or enjoying a warm day in the height of summer weather, this dessert is versatile enough for any occasion. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and sure to become your new favorite.

A Unique Twist on a Classic Dessert

While many layered desserts rely on intricate assemblies, we’ve added a unique spin to this strawberry trifle by using a shallow glass dish. Rather than multiple layers, we created a single stack of cake cubes, juicy strawberries, and whip cream. This approach showcases each ingredient while keeping things delightfully simple.

If you love the traditional layered look, use a large glass bowl or trifle dish to create alternating layers of strawberries, cake, and cream. For an extra special touch, consider serving the trifles in individual cups, perfect for parties or picnics.

Ingredients

Cake Layer:

• 1 pound cake or homemade angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor

Strawberry Layer:

• 1 pint of fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Cream Layer:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese (optional for a richer flavor)

Optional Toppings:

• Whole strawberries or mint leaves for garnish
• Additional drizzle of strawberry syrup

Instructions

2. Prepare the Strawberries:
In a large bowl, toss the diced strawberries with sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to release the strawberries’ natural juices.

3. Whip the Cream:
In another large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. For a richer texture, gently fold in mascarpone or cream cheese.

4. Assemble the Trifle:

For the unique single-layer approach, spread a layer of cake cubes in a shallow glass dish, top with the macerated strawberries, and finish with a generous dollop of cream.

For traditional layers, alternate the layers of angel food cake, strawberries, and cream in a trifle dish or individual cups, ending with a cream layer on top.

5. Garnish and Serve:
Add whole strawberries, a sprig of mint, or a sprinkle of lemon zest as garnish. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Make It Your Own

This strawberry angel food cake trifle recipe starts with a decision: will you bake your own homemade angel food cake or pick up a ready-made one from the grocery store? Either option works beautifully, but making your own adds an extra touch of care to this pretty dessert.

For the strawberries, a quick toss in lemon juice, sugar, and vanilla extract enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their vibrant color. Pair them with heavy whipping cream or a tub of cool whip, and you’ve got a match made in dessert heaven.

To elevate the presentation, consider visiting a thrift store to find unique glassware. Vintage bowls or individual cups can add a charming, rustic touch to your dessert table. Every spoonful of this strawberry shortcake trifle recipe will feel as delightful as it looks.

Strawberry Angel Food Cake Trifle, Perfect for Any Occasion

This trifle dessert is an excellent choice for springtime gatherings, summer barbecues, or even a casual weekday treat. The layers of angel food cake, whip cream, and fresh strawberries make it a showstopper without requiring hours in the kitchen.

For larger gatherings, assemble the trifle in a large bowl or trifle dish, allowing guests to scoop out their servings. For smaller settings, the single-layer approach in a shallow dish keeps things simple and elegant.

A New Favorite Dessert

Whether you’re enjoying it in a quaint dish or serving it in a large glass bowl, this strawberry trifle will quickly become your new favorite dessert. Its bright flavors, light texture, and endless customization options make it the perfect dessert to welcome spring and summer.

So grab your favorite fruit, a few pantry staples, and let this classic dessert remind you of the joy and beauty that come with a new season. From its juicy strawberries to its fluffy whipped cream, this is one treat you’ll return to time and time again.

If you’re looking for another delicious sweet treat, try out Rich and Moist Chocolate Coffee Cupcakes