A fresh and airy dessert, this Strawberry Trifle Cake with Angel Food & Creamy Layers features fluffy cake cubes, sweet macerated strawberries, creamy vanilla pudding blended with cream cheese, and a swirl of strawberry preserves—all beautifully layered into a stunning trifle that’s both elegant and effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This trifle is a delightful combination of textures and flavors—light and spongy angel food cake, silky pudding cream, and juicy, bright strawberries. It’s a no-bake dessert that looks impressive and comes together quickly, making it ideal for spring and summer gatherings, holidays, or casual entertaining. The recipe is also easily adaptable and can be prepared in a large trifle dish or portioned into individual cups for a more refined presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

angel food cake, cut into cubes
fresh strawberries, sliced
lemon zest
strawberry preserves
granulated sugar
instant vanilla pudding mix
whole milk
cream cheese, softened
heavy whipping cream
fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Directions

Macerate the strawberries: In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries with lemon zest and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
Prepare the pudding base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk. Refrigerate for 5 minutes until thickened.
Make the cream layer: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold the thickened pudding into the cream cheese until fully blended.
Whip the cream: In another bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding-cream cheese mixture to lighten it.
Layer the trifle: In a large trifle dish or clear individual cups, layer the cubed angel food cake, a portion of the cream mixture, a spoonful of strawberry preserves, and a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers as desired.
Top and chill: Finish with a layer of whipped cream and garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Berry blend: Mix strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for added color and flavor.
Lemon twist: Use lemon pudding instead of vanilla and add extra lemon zest for a tangier profile.
Chocolate layer: Add a thin layer of shaved dark chocolate or chocolate chips between the layers.
Alcoholic version: Drizzle the cake cubes with a splash of Grand Marnier or limoncello for a boozy twist.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free angel food cake to make the dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers will soften over time but remain delicious.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream and fruit layers may lose texture upon thawing.
Reheating: Not applicable—this dessert is meant to be served cold.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, making it a day in advance actually improves the flavor as the layers meld together.

What if I don’t have a trifle dish?

You can use a large glass bowl or prepare the dessert in individual serving glasses or jars.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

Mascarpone or whipped ricotta can be used for a different texture and flavor.

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, homemade vanilla pudding works well if you prefer not to use a boxed mix.

Will store-bought angel food cake work?

Absolutely—it’s a convenient and time-saving option for this dessert.

Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes, but freshly whipped cream offers better texture and flavor.

Can I add nuts for crunch?

Toasted almonds or crushed pistachios make a great textural contrast if sprinkled between layers or on top.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Beat until stiff peaks form and fold gently into the pudding mixture to preserve volume.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Use a long spoon or serving spatula for trifle dishes, or simply hand out pre-portioned cups if using individual servings.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Trifle Cake with Angel Food & Creamy Layers is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that delivers on both presentation and taste. With its mix of fruit, cake, and rich cream, it’s perfect for any gathering or celebration. Make it ahead, customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Strawberry Trifle Cake with Angel Food & Creamy Layers

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A light and luscious strawberry trifle made with fluffy angel food cake, sweet vanilla pudding, fresh berries, and a swirl of strawberry preserves—layered into a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Layering
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss sliced strawberries with lemon zest and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
In another bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk. Let thicken in the fridge for 5 minutes.
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold in the thickened pudding until well combined.
In a separate bowl, beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold half into the cream cheese mixture to lighten.
In a trifle dish or individual cups, layer angel food cake cubes, pudding mixture, strawberry preserves, and macerated strawberries.
Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream and a few mint leaves or fresh strawberries on top.
Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use store-bought or homemade angel food cake as preferred.
Let strawberries sit with sugar to fully develop syrupy juices.
Layer components evenly for the best presentation in clear dishes.
Best served within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 23g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg