Watertower Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle

This is a big favorite with my students. Not only is it delicious, it’s also pretty easy to make.

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 cup sour cream

3 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup sugar, divided

1 large angel food cake, cubed

2 quarts strawberries, sliced

Combine the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl and beat at high speed until smooth. Add the sour cream and 2 teaspoons of the vanilla and blend well. In a medium bowl beat the heavy cream on high speed until soft peaks form. Add 1 tablespoon sugar and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Fold the cubed cake into the cream cheese mixture. In a large bowl combine the sliced strawberries and the remaining sugar. Alternate layers of the strawberries and cake mixture in a trifle bowl, beginning and ending with the strawberries. Cover and chill for 2 hours.

Makes 10 to 12 servings.