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 store-bought angel food cake; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgences

I absolutely love making Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits when strawberries are in season. The light, airy texture of the angel food cake combined with fresh, juicy strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream creates a harmonious blend that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy more time with my guests. Plus, the beautiful layers in the parfaits make them visually stunning and a true showstopper at gatherings!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:37:34.854Z

Making Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits has become one of my favorite summer traditions. From picking fresh strawberries to layering them with fluffy angel food cake, I cherish each moment in the kitchen. The whipped cream adds just the right amount of richness. One tip I always follow is to gently fold in the whipped cream to maintain the lightness of the cake.

Recently, I experimented with different presentations, serving them in elegant glasses and garnishing with mint leaves. This tiny detail makes a big difference and impresses everyone at the table. If you want to elevate your dessert game, these parfaits are just the thing!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicate layers of light angel food cake and luscious strawberries
A refreshing dessert that is a feast for both the eyes and the palate
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or toppings

Choosing the Best Strawberries

When selecting strawberries for your parfaits, look for vibrant red color and a sweet aroma. Fresh strawberries should appear firm with green, leafy tops. Avoid any with bruising or soft spots, as these will not have the best flavor or texture. A good rule of thumb is to choose strawberries that are in season, typically from late spring to early summer, to ensure optimal freshness and sweetness.

If strawberries are out of season, consider using frozen strawberries, but be mindful to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess moisture in your parfaits. This can help maintain the lightness of the dessert, preventing sogginess in the layers. Bringing out the natural sweetness with a bit of powdered sugar can also enhance the flavors.

Perfecting the Whipped Cream

For the whipped cream, it’s essential to start with cold heavy cream to achieve the best results. I usually pop my mixing bowl and beaters into the freezer for about 10 minutes before I start. This can help the cream whip faster and reach soft peaks that are ideal for layering. Be careful not to over-whip; stopping as soon as it starts holding its shape ensures a light texture that complements the cake and strawberries.

You can adjust the sweetness of your whipped cream based on your preference. If you prefer it sweeter, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time while mixing. A pinch of salt can also help enhance the flavors without making it taste salty, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Lastly, fresh vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Assembling and Serving Tips

When assembling the parfaits, consider using clear glasses to show off the lovely layers of angel food cake, strawberries, and whipped cream. Start with a good layer of cake at the bottom, then alternate layers for the best visual impact. Aim for at least two to three layers to create height, which adds to the stunning presentation.

These parfaits can be made ahead of time! Preparing them a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. If you’re planning to serve them later in the day, I recommend adding fresh strawberries on top right before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

Ingredients

For the Parfaits

1 store-bought angel food cake
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Enjoy making these parfaits and get creative with your favorite fruits!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Make the Whipped Cream

In another bowl, beat the heavy cream with the remaining powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Layer the Parfaits

In serving glasses or bowls, begin layering by breaking the angel food cake into pieces, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries, and a layer of whipped cream. Repeat until glasses are full.

Serve

Top with additional strawberries and a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

These parfaits are best served fresh, but they can be made a couple of hours in advance.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can drizzle some strawberry syrup between layers or consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries for an extra zing.

Make-Ahead Storage

The Strawberry Angel Food Cake Parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. However, it’s best to keep the layers separate until just before serving to maintain the texture of the cake and strawberries. Store the cake in an airtight container and the strawberries in a covered bowl. Whipped cream can be stored in a separate container as well. This will help prevent the layers from becoming soggy.

If you have leftovers, you can enjoy them the next day. However, the quality may not be as pristine due to moisture absorption from the strawberries and whipped cream. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the angel food cake separately. To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer bag, and it can last up to three months.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your parfaits with different fruits based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Peaches, blueberries, or raspberries are delicious alternatives that can bring their unique flavor profiles and colors. If you want to get creative, consider adding a layer of lemon curd or chocolate sauce for an extra zing or richness.

For a twist on the whipped cream, you could fold in flavored extracts like almond or coconut or even some crushed cookies for added texture. Experimentation is not only encouraged but can elevate the classic parfait into something uniquely yours!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your whipped cream isn't whipping up correctly, it could be because your cream isn't cold enough or you’ve overbeaten it. If you notice grainy or butter-like texture, you may have whisked it too long. To remedy this, gently fold in a little more unwhipped cream until smooth. This can also help in achieving the light, airy consistency needed for the parfaits.

If your strawberries seem overly tart, consider adjusting the macerating step by adding a bit more sugar or a splash of orange juice for extra flavor. Maceration not only sweetens the berries but also draws out their juices—making them juicier and more flavorful for your layers. Always taste test before assembling to ensure ideal flavor balance!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the parfaits a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until serving.

→ What can I substitute for strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with any berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, or even peaches or mangoes.

→ Is there a way to lighten this recipe?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to reduce calories while still achieving a creamy texture.

→ Can I use homemade angel food cake?

Absolutely! Homemade angel food cake will add a personal touch to your parfaits.