Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 angel food cake, cut into cubes; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Magic

I absolutely adore making Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits! Every time I prepare this dessert, I am overwhelmed by the fresh, fruity flavors and the light, airy texture. Layering the angel food cake with ripe strawberries and whipped cream creates a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner, these parfaits never fail to impress. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings or just a sweet indulgence at home.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:53:35.738Z

Preparing these Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits is always a delightful experience for me. The combination of freshly whipped cream and sweet strawberries creates a mouthwatering harmony that pairs beautifully with the airy cake. I've learned that using ripe strawberries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the layers. This dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

When layering the parfaits, I like to alternate between cake, strawberries, and whipped cream to ensure every spoonful is a mixture of all the delicious components. This method keeps the texture interesting and prevents any one ingredient from overpowering the others. Trust me, this little trick elevates the entire dessert!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and fluffy angel food cake brings a delightful texture
Fresh strawberries add a burst of juicy sweetness
Perfectly layered for an elegant presentation

Choosing the Right Strawberries

Selecting the best strawberries is crucial for achieving the ideal flavor in your parfaits. Look for ripe, bright red strawberries with a firm texture and a sweet aroma. When you slice them, they should be juicy and not overly soft. If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries; just be sure to thaw them properly and drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy layers.

Opt for organic strawberries if possible, as they tend to have a more intense flavor. If you’re unable to find fresh strawberries, you can also use other berries like raspberries or blueberries. You might want to slightly adjust the quantity and layering based on their size and texture to maintain the parfait's balanced flavor profile.

Mastering the Whipped Cream

To achieve light and fluffy whipped cream, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold before starting. Chill them in the freezer for about 10 minutes; this helps the cream whip faster. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form, and avoid over-whipping, which can turn the cream grainy. If this happens, you can gently fold in more heavy cream to rescue the mixture.

For a twist on flavor, consider infusing the whipped cream with citrus zest or using flavored extracts such as almond or coconut instead of vanilla. This addition can elevate the overall taste and complexity of your parfait. You can also experiment with different sweeteners like honey or a sugar substitute if you're looking for a healthier option.

Ingredients

For the Parfaits

1 angel food cake, cut into cubes
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Enjoy this delicious and refreshing dessert!

Instructions

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

Layer the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the angel food cake cubes, sliced strawberries, and whipped cream. Repeat until the glasses are filled, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a few strawberry slices on top.

Chill and Serve

Chill the parfaits for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits!

These parfaits are best enjoyed chilled.

Pro Tips

Using cold tools while whipping the cream can help achieve better volume and texture. Additionally, feel free to substitute the strawberries with other berries based on your preference!

Make-Ahead Tips

Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings. You can assemble the parfaits up to 2 hours before serving; just be sure to store them covered in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can enhance the overall taste.

If you plan to make them further in advance, consider storing each component separately. Keep the angel food cake cubes and strawberries in airtight containers, and whip the cream right before assembly. This approach helps maintain the textures, ensuring that your parfaits are fresh and light by the time you serve them.

Troubleshooting Layering Issues

If you find that your layers aren’t holding together well, it could be due to the whipped cream being too soft. Make sure to beat until soft peaks form, and for a sturdier texture, try adding a tablespoon of gelatin dissolved in a bit of warm water to the cream before whipping. This will help the whipped cream retain its structure during layering.

Additionally, if the angel food cake is crumbling too much, it's possible that it's too dry. Make sure you don’t overbake it; the cake should be light and springy to the touch. If you’ve made the cake in advance, consider lightly soaking the cubes in a simple syrup (sugar dissolved in equal parts water) to keep them moist for layering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought angel food cake?

Absolutely! Store-bought angel food cake works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.

→ How long do the parfaits last in the fridge?

The parfaits can last up to 2 days in the fridge, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free angel food cake recipe or store-bought option to make this dessert gluten-free.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can use a variety of fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches to switch things up!