PATRIOTIC DESSERT: STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE TRIFLE

Summer time is here and I am so excited about spending some quality time with my family. This year we are adding a lot of "firsts" and new "traditions" to our list. A new addition to the list of celebrations now includes Memorial Day and Fourth of July. 

In my hunt for some ideas for Memorial Day and Fourth of July, I stumbled across traditional strawberry shortcakes. Gosh, I haven't had one of those since I was younger! So I thought, what a better way to celebrate than to try new things and cool down the summer heat with a red, white and (not so-) blue dessert with an "old school touch". My youngest daughter is such a picky eater and she even asked for more! 

This quick and easy dessert is perfect for any gathering. Who doesn't love fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and fluffy cake? I can’t wait to make this yummy patriotic dessert again for the holiday. 

Ingredients: 

·         1 Box of Angel Food Cake 

·         2 Packs of Strawberries

·         1 Box of Banana Cream Pudding

·         Milk 

·         1 Container of Whipped Cream

·         1 Tablespoon of Brown Sugar

Directions:

1. Cook Angel Food Cake according to the directions on box. When done, set aside to cool.

2. Slice strawberries and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and toss gently until all strawberries are covered. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and place in fridge for strawberries to glaze and cool for at least 30 minutes. 

3. In another large bowl, prepare banana cream pudding (using cold milk). Set aside. 

4. Slice Angel Food Cake in small slices. Once sliced, cube pieces into uneven squares. 

5. Remove strawberries from fridge, and prepare to layer your dessert bowl. I layered mine, cake cubes, pudding, whipped cream, glazed strawberries. Repeat until bowl is filled. 

6. Layer top with cake crumbles (you can also add leftover strawberries in glaze or whole strawberries.)

7. Serve. Refrigerate. 

Quick tips: 

1. Do not fill your pan with cake batter. Angel Food rises so give space in pan. 

2. Use all of your glaze and strawberries. Don't be afraid it will get soggy or watery. The more strawberries the better. 

3. Keep refrigerated. 

4. It's so light and fluffy, no need to feel guilty after eating this dessert!

I know you will enjoy this recipe as much as I did! What are your favorite patriotic desserts?