Strawberry Heaven Dessert – Easy No-Bake Recipe with Strawberries

There’s something magical about desserts that come together quickly but still look and taste like something out of a bakery window. Strawberry Heaven Dessert is just that kind of recipe. It’s light, creamy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Best of all, there’s no baking required—just some mixing, layering, and chilling. If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place.

This recipe starts with torn pieces of fluffy angel food cake. Then comes a creamy layer made with softened cream cheese and whipped topping. Finally, you’ll spoon on a glossy, sweet strawberry glaze filled with fresh berries. The result is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, special occasions, or any time you want to impress without heating up your kitchen.

I first discovered this dessert at a summer barbecue, and it’s been in my rotation ever since. A friend brought it in a glass casserole dish, and the moment she set it down, the table got quiet. The bright red glaze shimmered under the sunlight, and those juicy berries sat like gems on top of the creamy white layer. It looked fancy, but the first bite told me it was comfort food in disguise—sweet, soft, slightly tangy, and deeply satisfying. That day, I cornered her for the recipe, and now it’s one I make over and over again. From backyard gatherings to Eid dinners, this dessert has made more appearances than I can count—and it always gets requests for the recipe.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting out in the kitchen, this dessert welcomes you in with open arms. There’s no pressure, no complicated techniques—just simple, classic ingredients that come together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe: A Dessert That Delivers on All Fronts

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the biggest perks of this dessert is that it requires no oven, no baking skills, and no fancy tools. You only need a saucepan, a mixing bowl, and a dish to assemble everything in. Each layer comes together with a few ingredients and minimal effort. The glaze thickens in under ten minutes, the cream layer is as easy as mixing and folding, and the angel food cake is store-bought—no need to bake from scratch.

It Feels Fancy But Comes Together Fast

Even though this dessert is super easy to make, it looks like something you spent hours on. The layers of cream, cake, and vibrant strawberries look impressive, especially if you serve it in a glass dish so the layers show through. Guests will assume it’s a complicated recipe, but you’ll know better—and you’ll appreciate just how quickly it comes together.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish works just as well for a family dinner as it does for a baby shower, picnic, or celebration. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that holds up well on a buffet table. Because it’s served cold, it’s particularly refreshing in spring and summer, but honestly, we’ve made it year-round. There’s never a wrong time for strawberries and cream.

Light Yet Satisfying

Thanks to the angel food cake and whipped topping, this dessert has an airy, soft texture that feels indulgent without being overly rich. The cream cheese adds a bit of tang and body, while the strawberries keep everything fruity and fresh. It strikes that ideal balance between creamy and light, sweet and tangy, soft and juicy.

Kid and Adult Friendly

Children love the strawberry topping and fluffy cake, while adults appreciate the complexity the cream cheese layer brings. It’s a dessert the whole family can agree on, and you’ll find it disappearing fast from any dessert spread.

Health Benefits: A Lighter Alternative to Traditional Cakes

Lower in Fat Compared to Heavy Desserts

Because this dessert uses angel food cake as the base, it naturally contains less fat than other cake-based desserts. Angel food cake is typically made without butter or oil, making it a better option for those watching their saturated fat intake. Plus, the use of Cool Whip instead of heavy cream helps keep the fat content on the lower side without compromising on creaminess.

Strawberries Offer Real Nutritional Value

One of the star ingredients in this recipe is fresh strawberries—and they bring more than just bright color and sweet flavor. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, and fiber. They also have a high water content, which contributes to the overall hydrating and refreshing nature of this dessert. Including real fruit in a treat is always a bonus, and here, the berries shine in both taste and nutrition.

Less Sugar Than Traditional Cheesecakes

While this dessert does contain sugar, it’s spread across a large number of servings and balanced by the tanginess of the cream cheese and the natural sweetness of the strawberries. The recipe uses one cup of sugar total, which is relatively moderate considering how rich and flavorful the dessert feels. You can also adjust the sugar slightly to suit your taste.

Portion-Friendly for Balanced Eating

Because this dessert is layered and served in a large dish, it’s easy to cut small or large portions depending on your needs. A small square goes a long way in delivering that satisfying sweetness, making it easier to enjoy without overindulging. It also pairs well with lighter meals or can serve as the final note after a hearty dinner.

Halal-Friendly and No Alcohol or Gelatin Concerns

This version of the dessert is made entirely with halal-friendly ingredients. The Jell-O used is vegetarian (be sure to select a halal-certified or gelatin-free strawberry version), and there’s no wine, no liqueurs, and no pork-based gelatin. It’s safe to serve at halal gatherings and inclusive for a wide range of dietary needs.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time Required

One of the best things about this recipe is how quickly it comes together, despite the layered look.

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time (for glaze): 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2–3 hours minimum (or overnight for best results)
Total time: About 3 hours including chilling

Servings

This recipe makes approximately 12–16 servings depending on how large you cut the pieces. It’s perfect for family events, potlucks, or small gatherings with leftovers for later.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugars: 29g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 150mg

Please note: These values are approximate and may vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Ingredients List: What You’ll Need and Why

Core Ingredients

• 1 angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
  Light, spongy, and slightly sweet, angel food cake serves as the soft base of this dessert. Tear it into bite-sized pieces for a rustic texture that holds up under the creamy and fruity layers.
• 1 (16 oz) container Cool Whip, divided
  This whipped topping adds airiness to both the base and the cream cheese layer. It gives the dessert a smooth, fluffy texture without needing to whip your own cream.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  Cream cheese provides a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries and whipped topping. Make sure it’s fully softened for easy mixing.
• 1 cup sugar, divided
  Half of the sugar is used in the glaze, while the other half sweetens the cream cheese layer. You can reduce the sugar slightly if your strawberries are especially sweet.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  Adds warmth and aroma to the cream layer, balancing the tang of the cream cheese.
• 1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced
  Fresh, juicy strawberries are the heart of this dessert. Slice them evenly so they absorb the glaze well.
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
  Acts as the thickening agent for the homemade strawberry glaze. It creates that glossy finish and keeps the glaze from being too runny.
• 1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jell-O
  Provides vibrant color and extra strawberry flavor. Use a gelatin-free or halal-certified version to keep the dessert halal.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  The lemon juice brightens the glaze and balances out the sweetness. It also helps the strawberries retain their color and texture.
• 1 cup water
  Used in the glaze to dissolve the sugar, Jell-O, and cornstarch. It creates the right consistency for spooning over the dessert.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions: Building the Layers of Flavor

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

Start by making the glaze so it has time to cool slightly before mixing with the strawberries. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, the 3 oz package of strawberry Jell-O, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 cup of water. Stir the mixture constantly to prevent lumps and ensure an even cook.

Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, let it cook for another 1–2 minutes until it thickens. It should go from cloudy to glossy and vibrant red. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other components. You don’t want it to be hot when adding strawberries, or it may wilt them.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze With the Strawberries

While the glaze is cooling, rinse and hull the strawberries. Slice them into even pieces—not too thin or they’ll disappear into the glaze, but not too chunky either. Once the glaze has cooled to warm (but not cold), gently fold the strawberries into it. Use a spatula to coat them evenly without breaking them down.

At this point, you’ll start seeing the dessert come to life. The glaze clings to the berries and turns them into glossy little jewels, making the final top layer visually stunning and full of texture.

Step 3: Create the Angel Food Cake Base

Now that the glaze is resting, it’s time to prepare the base layer. Take your angel food cake and tear it into 1-inch chunks. Don’t worry about making the pieces perfect—this rustic approach actually works best for absorbing the cream layer later on. You want a fluffy, uneven texture that can soak up flavor while still holding its bounce.

Place the torn cake pieces into a large bowl. Add 2 cups of the Cool Whip and gently fold everything together until the cake is coated evenly. The Cool Whip will cling to the soft cake pieces, creating a creamy, pillowy mixture.

Transfer this mixture to a 9×13-inch dish and press it into an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out, pressing just enough to form a stable bottom layer but not so much that it becomes dense. This is the foundation of your dessert, so it should feel light and airy but structured.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

Next comes the rich, creamy middle layer. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This step is key—if your cream cheese isn’t softened enough, you might end up with lumps. Once the cream cheese is soft and creamy, add the remaining ½ cup of sugar and the vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is well incorporated and light in texture.

Now, gently fold in the remaining Cool Whip. Do this in batches to avoid deflating the mixture. The goal is to create a luscious, fluffy cream layer that spreads easily and complements the lightness of the base.

Once mixed, spoon the cream cheese mixture over the angel food cake layer in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly all the way to the edges. Make sure it’s smooth and level—this layer serves as the creamy canvas for the final strawberry topping.

Step 5: Add the Strawberry Topping

Now that your strawberries have had time to sit in the glaze, they’re ready to go on top. Using a spoon or spatula, gently scoop the glazed strawberry mixture over the cream layer. Spread it evenly so that every bite includes a bit of strawberry sweetness.

As you layer the strawberries, don’t press them down too hard. You want them to sit delicately on top, forming a glossy, fruit-forward finish. Try to get a good distribution of berries across the entire surface—this not only makes the dessert look beautiful but ensures that every serving is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Once all the layers are assembled, cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It needs to chill for at least 2–3 hours, though overnight is even better if you have the time. This resting period allows the layers to set, the flavors to meld, and the glaze to firm up just enough to slice cleanly.

When ready to serve, simply uncover, cut into squares, and enjoy the soft, fruity, creamy deliciousness. The first bite will be met with nods of approval—it’s that good.

How to Serve: Presenting the Strawberry Heaven Dessert for Maximum Enjoyment

Serve It Chilled for the Best Texture

This Strawberry Heaven Dessert is at its absolute best when served cold. The cool cream cheese layer, paired with the chilled strawberries and airy cake, creates an experience that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying. If you’ve let it chill overnight, just remove it from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off without letting it warm too much.

Use a Clear Dish for Extra Visual Appeal

Because this dessert is layered, consider using a glass dish if you have one. The visual contrast of the red strawberries, white cream, and soft cake beneath is stunning and instantly grabs attention at any table. It also helps guests see what they’re getting with each spoonful.

Garnish Options for Special Occasions

If you’re serving this for a celebration, add a few garnishes to dress it up. A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint or a few extra whole strawberries along the edge of the dish can make a big impact. You could even add a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving for a delicate finish.

Portion Tips for Serving a Crowd

This dessert cuts beautifully into 12–16 squares, depending on your event and how large you want the portions to be. For a lighter dessert option after a large meal, smaller squares are perfect. For more indulgent servings, cut into generous rectangles and offer with a spoon or dessert fork.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve With Strawberry Heaven Dessert

Complement with Light Savory Dishes

Because this dessert is sweet, fruity, and chilled, it pairs wonderfully with lighter main dishes. Try serving it after a meal of grilled chicken, lemon-herb salmon, or even a fresh pasta primavera. The contrast between savory and sweet will keep your guests coming back for seconds.

Refreshing Beverages to Serve Alongside

Strawberry Heaven Dessert goes well with equally refreshing drinks. Consider offering:

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime
• Fresh lemonade
• Strawberry or mint-infused iced tea
• For a festive (non-alcoholic) twist: a fizzy mocktail made with soda water, strawberry syrup, and fresh mint

Ideal for Afternoon Events or Brunch

This dessert isn’t just for dinner parties. It’s also a great fit for brunches, showers, or afternoon tea. Serve it alongside scones, fruit salad, and tea sandwiches for a light and delightful spread.

Family-Friendly Pairings for All Ages

If serving to kids or families, pair this dessert with finger-friendly options like turkey sliders, vegetable trays with hummus, or baked chicken tenders. A balanced meal followed by a sweet, fruity treat keeps everyone happy—no complicated plating required.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers in the Refrigerator

Store any leftover Strawberry Heaven Dessert covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 3 days, though the strawberries may start to release more juice over time. For best texture, enjoy within the first 48 hours.

Freezing Instructions for Longer Storage

If you want to make this dessert ahead or save leftovers for later, freezing is an option—but with a few caveats. Because of the whipped topping and strawberries, the texture may change slightly once thawed. That said, it still tastes great!

To freeze:

1. Cut the dessert into squares.
2. Place pieces on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid.
3. Transfer frozen squares to an airtight container or freezer bag.
4. Freeze for up to 1 month.

To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy chilled.

Can You Reheat It?

This dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. In fact, warming it would melt the whipped topping and glaze. Just take it out of the fridge and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Strawberry Heaven Dessert

Not Letting the Glaze Cool Before Adding the Strawberries

One of the most common missteps with this Strawberry Heaven Dessert happens early on—adding fresh strawberries to hot glaze. While it might seem efficient to mix them in right away, doing so can make the strawberries wilt and lose their vibrant texture. Instead, allow the glaze to cool until it’s warm but not hot. This will help preserve the strawberries’ shape and freshness while still allowing the glaze to coat them beautifully.

Using Cold Cream Cheese

Cold cream cheese is difficult to blend and often results in a lumpy cream layer. For a smooth and fluffy mixture, always let your cream cheese come to room temperature before beating. If you forget, you can microwave it in 10-second intervals just until softened—being careful not to melt it.

Overmixing the Whipped Topping

When combining Cool Whip with either the cake or the cream cheese layer, it’s essential to fold gently rather than stir aggressively. Overmixing can deflate the whipped topping, leading to a denser, heavier dessert. Instead, use a spatula and a light hand to preserve the airiness that gives this dessert its signature texture.

Not Chilling Long Enough

This Strawberry Heaven Dessert relies on time in the fridge to fully set. If you cut into it too soon, you’ll end up with runny layers and a mess on your plate. Make sure to allow at least 2–3 hours of chilling time, though overnight is best if you can plan ahead. The flavors will meld and the structure will hold better when given time to rest.

Using Unsuitable Substitutes

If you’re tempted to substitute ingredients like fresh whipped cream for Cool Whip or a different type of cake for the angel food base, proceed with caution. While you can make swaps, they may affect the texture, stability, or sweetness of the final dish. Always consider the moisture content and consistency of substitutes before making changes.

Pro Tips: Secrets for a Foolproof Strawberry Heaven Dessert

Tip 1: Tear, Don’t Cut the Angel Food Cake

Tearing the cake into pieces instead of slicing it with a knife creates more surface area for the whipped topping to cling to. This results in a more cohesive base and a better bite. Plus, it gives the dessert a rustic, homemade look that adds to its charm.

Tip 2: Use a Clear Glass Dish for Presentation

If you’re serving this dessert for guests, presentation counts. A clear 9×13-inch glass baking dish allows the layers to shine through—literally. You’ll be able to see the soft cake, fluffy cream, and glossy strawberries stacked beautifully, which turns a simple recipe into a showstopper.

Tip 3: Dry the Strawberries After Washing

Strawberries tend to hold a lot of water, and excess moisture can water down your glaze. After rinsing the berries, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This small step makes a big difference in the final result.

Tip 4: Chill Your Mixing Bowl for the Cream Layer

For an extra fluffy cream layer, try placing your mixing bowl in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before beating the cream cheese and Cool Whip together. This helps maintain the whipped topping’s lightness and gives the mixture an extra smooth finish.

Tip 5: Make a Day Ahead for Better Flavor

While this dessert can be served after a few hours of chilling, it actually tastes even better the next day. The extra time allows the flavors to marry and the structure to set perfectly. If you have time, make it the night before your event and keep it covered in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are strongly recommended for this recipe because they hold their shape and texture better in the glaze. Frozen strawberries tend to release too much liquid as they thaw, which can water down the topping and make the dessert soggy. If you absolutely must use frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly first, but keep in mind the texture will be softer.

Is it possible to make this Strawberry Heaven Dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead is encouraged. You can prepare the entire dessert the night before and store it in the fridge, covered. This gives it plenty of time to set, and the flavors will be even more delicious the next day.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can—but be aware that homemade whipped cream tends to deflate faster than Cool Whip. If you go this route, stabilize it with a bit of cornstarch or powdered sugar during whipping to help it hold its shape. Use it immediately after whipping and plan to serve the dessert the same day for best results.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese works best for this recipe. It provides the richest flavor and the smoothest texture. Light or reduced-fat versions can be used, but they may not whip up quite as nicely. Avoid fat-free versions, which can be watery and lack the creaminess you want.

Can I use other fruits?

While strawberries are classic and beloved in this dish, you can absolutely experiment with other fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches could work wonderfully, especially if paired with a matching gelatin flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and flavoring to suit the fruit you choose.

Is this dessert halal?

Yes! This version is halal-friendly. Be sure to use a halal-certified strawberry gelatin (many brands now offer gelatin-free or plant-based alternatives) and check that the whipped topping and other packaged ingredients are free from animal-based gelatin or alcohol-derived flavorings.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

While lemon juice brightens the glaze and adds a little acidity, you can substitute lime juice or a splash of orange juice if needed. In a pinch, you can omit it entirely, though the flavor will be slightly sweeter without the citrus contrast.

Can I serve this in individual cups?

Yes! This dessert works beautifully as an individual parfait-style treat. Simply layer the components in small clear cups or dessert glasses instead of a large dish. This is a great option for parties, picnics, or grab-and-go servings.

How do I transport this dessert?

If you’re bringing this dessert to a potluck or party, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use a lid if your dish has one. Keep it cold during transport by placing it in a cooler or insulated bag with an ice pack. Once you arrive, pop it in the fridge until serving time.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, and wipe it clean between cuts. This will help you slice through the creamy layers without making a mess. Serving with a spatula will help lift each square neatly from the dish.

Conclusion & Call to Action: Make This Your New Go-To No-Bake Dessert

There are recipes we try once, and then there are the ones we come back to over and over again. Strawberry Heaven Dessert falls firmly into that second category. With its easy preparation, beautiful presentation, and irresistible layers of flavor, it has everything you could want in a dessert—especially when time is tight, or the oven is off-limits.

From the fluffy base of angel food cake to the creamy, tangy middle and the sweet, glossy strawberry topping, every layer offers something different. It’s a dessert that feels nostalgic and fresh all at once. You don’t need to be a baking pro to pull it off. In fact, even beginner cooks will find it rewarding, thanks to simple ingredients and fail-proof steps.

So, whether you’re planning a weekend gathering, hosting family for a special dinner, or just want something sweet and light in the fridge for the week, give this Strawberry Heaven Dessert a try. It’s become a favorite in my kitchen, and I know it will in yours too.

If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment with your thoughts, share your photos on social media, or tag me in your dessert creations. There’s nothing more exciting than seeing how recipes come to life in your home.

Here’s to sweet moments, creamy bites, and recipes that bring a little extra joy to the table—one delicious layer at a time.

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