Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert With Berries

Name: Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert With Berries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cake flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 12 large egg whites, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I love making Strawberry Angel Food Cake Dessert with Berries, especially during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. This dessert is light, fluffy, and oh-so-refreshing! The angel food cake adds an airy quality that perfectly complements the sweetness of the berries. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to treat for gatherings or a sweet indulgence after dinner. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience its charm!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:41:35.062Z

When I first made this Strawberry Angel Food Cake, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a stunning dessert. I used fresh, ripe strawberries that added a natural sweetness and color to the dish. The fluffy angel food cake served as a beautiful backdrop, and the whipped cream gave it an indulgent finish. I found that letting the cake sit for a few minutes before serving helps blend the flavors together wonderfully.

One of my favorite tricks is to drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the strawberries; it enhances their flavor remarkably! This dessert always garners plenty of compliments, and it’s satisfying to know that such a delicious treat can be made with just a handful of ingredients. Plus, it’s a light option that feels refreshing at the end of a hearty meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and fluffy angel food cake that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries paired with a hint of sweetness
A beautiful presentation perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Angel Food Cake

Successfully baking an angel food cake relies heavily on the proper preparation of the egg whites. Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are impeccably clean, as any trace of fat can prevent the whites from whipping up properly. When beating the egg whites, start on a medium speed until soft peaks form, then gradually increase to high speed. This technique allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.

When folding in the flour mixture, use a gentle motion with a spatula. This is crucial; if you overmix, the cake will lose its airy structure, leading to a denser final product. Aim for a smooth, homogenous batter with no visible streaks of flour. It’s vital that you do not grease the tube pan, as this allows the cake to cling to the sides while rising and ensures a dramatic height.

Balancing Flavors with Toppings

The sweetness of the strawberries can significantly enhance your dessert, so choose ripe, aromatic berries for the best flavor. If your strawberries lack sweetness, a sprinkle of sugar can help. Allow them to sit for about 10-15 minutes to create a natural syrup. This syrup can be layered with the cake to add an extra burst of flavor and moisture to each bite.

Whipping the cream to soft peaks is fundamental; avoid overwhipping as it may turn grainy and separate. To achieve a silky texture, add powdered sugar slowly as you beat the cream, which not only sweetens but also stabilizes it. If you're looking to make the topping ahead of time, consider using a stabilizer like gelatin or instant pudding mix to keep the whipped cream fluffy longer without collapsing.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delightful dessert:

For the Cake

1 cup cake flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
12 large egg whites, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Make sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly before using them!

Instructions

Let's get started with the steps to create this beautiful dessert:

Prepare the Angel Food Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, sift together the cake flour and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Fold the flour mixture into the egg whites gently, being careful not to deflate the batter. Pour into an ungreased tube pan and bake for 30 minutes. Invert the pan and let it cool.

Prepare the Topping

While the cake is cooling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside. Slice the fresh strawberries and, if desired, sprinkle a little sugar to enhance their sweetness.

Assemble the Dessert

Once the cake has cooled completely, remove it from the pan. Slice the cake into layers or cubes, if preferred. In a serving dish, alternate layers of cake, whipped cream, and strawberries. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your light and refreshing dessert!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use the ripest strawberries you can find. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries for added brightness.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

To make this dessert in advance, prepare the angel food cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, for longer storage, consider freezing the cooled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and it can last up to three months. Just allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

The topping can be ready a few hours prior to serving. Whip the cream and slice the strawberries, storing them separately in the fridge. When it's close to serving time, assemble the layers so everything remains fresh and the cake doesn’t become soggy. This strategy helps maintain the delightful textures while ensuring maximum flavor.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with the berry topping! While strawberries are the star here, you could substitute or mix in blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful medley. Each berry brings its own flavor and adds a vibrant look; just be mindful of the sweetness levels and adjust the sugar accordingly.

For a twist on the traditional, consider adding a hint of citrus zest—like lemon or orange—to the whipped cream. This will elevate the flavor profile and balance the sweetness with a refreshing tartness. It can also give your dessert an appealing aromatic quality that pairs well with the berries.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

You can prepare the cake in advance and store it separately. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the cake?

You can use a gluten-free cake flour substitute, keeping in mind the texture might differ slightly.