The Strawberry Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the lightness of angel food cake with the richness of strawberry and vanilla flavors. It’s perfect for those who love a sweet treat that isn’t overly heavy. This recipe is simple, using readily available ingredients, and can be a hit at any gathering or a special treat for a family dinner.
Why We Love This Recipe
– Easy to Make: Utilizes premade ingredients for convenience.
– Perfect Combination: The blend of strawberries, vanilla, and cream creates a heavenly taste.
– Versatile: Great for any occasion, from casual to festive.
Ingredients
– 10 ounces premade angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (or prepare a boxed mix)
– 21 ounces strawberry pie filling
– 3.4 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix
– 1⅔ cups cold whole milk
– 1 cup sour cream
– 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
Substitutions and Additions
– Angel Food Cake: Homemade sponge cake can be used.
– Milk: Almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
– Whipped Topping: Freshly whipped cream can be used for a richer taste.
Instructions
1. Prepare the angel food cake as per instructions if using a mix. Let it cool and cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Add the sour cream and mix well.
3. In a serving dish, layer half of the cake cubes. Top with half of the strawberry pie filling, followed by half of the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers.
4. Finish by spreading the whipped topping over the top layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 300-400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50-70g
• Sugars: 30-40g (mostly from the cake, pie filling, and pudding mix)
• Protein: 3-5g (from the milk and angel food cake)
• Fat: 10-15g
• Saturated Fat: 5-8g (from sour cream and whipped topping)
• Cholesterol: 10-20mg (from the dairy products)
• Sodium: 200-300mg (mostly from the cake and pudding mix)
• Fiber: 1-2g (from the strawberry filling)
Key Points
• High in Sugars: A significant amount of sugar comes from the pie filling, pudding mix, and cake.
• Moderate in Fat: Mostly from sour cream and whipped topping.
• Low in Protein: Not a significant source of protein.
This cake is a treat meant for occasional enjoyment rather than for its nutritional value. If you’re watching your sugar intake or have dietary restrictions, consider the substitutions mentioned earlier or portion control. Remember, these values can vary significantly based on the specific products used and the serving size. For precise nutritional information, it would be best to calculate the values based on the exact brands and quantities you use.
Notes
– The cake can be made a day ahead for better flavor infusion.
– Ensure the cake is cooled completely before assembling to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
1. Chill: Before serving, ensure the cake has been refrigerated for at least 4 hours. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld together and for the cake to set properly.
2. Cut: Use a clean, sharp knife to cut through the layers. Wiping the knife between cuts can help in making cleaner slices.
3. Portion Size: Serve in moderate portions as it is a rich and sweet dessert.
Presentation Tips
• Garnish: Top each slice with fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serving Plates: Use elegant dessert plates to enhance the visual appeal.
• Drizzle: For an extra touch of elegance, you could drizzle a little strawberry syrup or sauce around the plate.
Accompaniments
1. Iced Tea: A classic, refreshing choice. Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea can balance the sweetness of the cake.
2. Sparkling Water: A bubbly, neutral option that can cleanse the palate between bites.
3. Lemonade: Adds a citrusy contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
4. Fruit Punch or Juice: Choose a juice or punch that complements the strawberry flavor, like apple or cranberry.
5. Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or tea can be a great accompaniment, especially if the cake is served as a dessert after a meal.
6. Milk: A classic choice, especially if children are part of the gathering.
Storage
– Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
– Not suitable for freezing as it may alter the texture.
FAQs
1. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Answer: Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. In fact, it tastes better when allowed to chill overnight, as the flavors meld together more fully.
2. Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Strawberry Pie Filling?
Answer: Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be a delicious and fresher alternative. You might want to add a bit of sugar to the fresh strawberries and let them sit for a while to create a syrupy juice.
3. Is There a Gluten-Free Version of This Cake?
Answer: Yes, you can use a gluten-free angel food cake or sponge cake as a substitute to make this recipe gluten-free.
4. Can This Cake Be Frozen?
Answer: It’s not recommended to freeze this cake as freezing can alter the texture of the cream and cake layers. However, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
5. How Can I Make This Cake Healthier?
Answer: To make it healthier, you can use low-fat or fat-free versions of the dairy ingredients, use a sugar substitute, and increase the amount of fresh strawberries.
6. Can I Use a Different Type of Cake?
Answer: Yes, while angel food cake is traditional for its light texture, you can use sponge cake or even pound cake for a denser version.
7. Is It Possible to Make This Cake Dairy-Free?
Answer: Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives for milk, sour cream, and whipped topping. There are many plant-based options available that can substitute well.
8. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Answer: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It’s best eaten within this time frame to maintain its freshness and texture.
These FAQs cover common queries about the cake, but if you have any more specific questions, feel free to ask!
Enjoy your Strawberry Heaven on Earth Cake, a delightful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!