Heaven On Earth Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers fluffy angel food cake, luscious cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and light whipped topping. This trifle-like treat is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious, making it perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert combines the lightness of angel food cake with the rich flavors of cherries and vanilla pudding, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Its no-bake nature ensures a hassle-free preparation, and the make-ahead convenience allows flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit various preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Prepared angel food cakeLog in or sign up to view+9Desserts On A Dime+9Gonna Want Seconds+9
- Cherry pie fillingKitchen Fun With My 3 Sons+9Together as Family+9Midwestern HomeLife+9
- Instant vanilla pudding mixLog in or sign up to view+12Meal Planning Blueprints+12Desserts On A Dime+12
- Milk
- Sour creamSouthern Living+5Meal Planning Blueprints+5Spaceships and Laser Beams+5
- Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)Gonna Want Seconds+4Together as Family+4Spaceships and Laser Beams+4
Directions
- Prepare the Cake: Cut the cooled angel food cake into 1-inch cubes using a serrated knife for clean cuts.Southern Living+8thebestblogrecipes.com+8Midwestern HomeLife+8
- Layer the Base: In a 9×9-inch baking dish, evenly layer half of the cake cubes.Desserts On A Dime+8Gonna Want Seconds+8thebestblogrecipes.com+8
- Add Cherry Filling: Spread approximately two-thirds of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.Southern Living+5Gonna Want Seconds+5Together as Family+5
- Second Cake Layer: Place the remaining cake cubes over the cherry layer.
- Prepare Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth and thickened.Southern Living+8Spaceships and Laser Beams+8thebestblogrecipes.com+8
- Add Pudding Layer: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top cake layer.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Gently spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Garnish: Dollop the remaining cherry pie filling on top and sprinkle with sliced almonds if desired.Gonna Want Seconds+2Together as Family+2Midwestern HomeLife+2
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 10 servingsLog in or sign up to view+1Pass the Dessert+1
- Active Prep Time: 15 minutesTogether as Family+6Gonna Want Seconds+6Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons+6
- Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight preferred)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (minimum)Spaceships and Laser Beams
Variations
- Alternative Pie Fillings: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, or even lemon pie filling for a different flavor profile.Southern Living+6Spaceships and Laser Beams+6Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons+6
- Cake Options: Replace angel food cake with pound cake, sponge cake, or even brownies for a richer dessert.Pass the Dessert+1Spaceships and Laser Beams+1
- Pudding Flavors: Experiment with different pudding flavors like cheesecake, white chocolate, or lemon to complement the chosen pie filling.Midwestern HomeLife
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the sliced almonds for those with nut allergies or preferences.Spatula Desserts+5Together as Family+5thebestblogrecipes.com+5
- Individual Servings: Assemble the dessert in individual cups or jars for personalized servings.Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cake may become softer as it absorbs the pudding and pie filling over time.Midwestern HomeLife
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change upon thawing.
FAQs
What is Heaven On Earth Cake?
Heaven On Earth Cake is a no-bake dessert featuring layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, vanilla pudding mixed with sour cream, and whipped topping, resulting in a light and creamy treat.Southern Living+7Together as Family+7thebestblogrecipes.com+7
Can I use homemade angel food cake?
Yes, homemade angel food cake can be used. Ensure it is completely cooled before cutting into cubes to maintain the desired texture.thebestblogrecipes.com+2The Benson Street+2Gonna Want Seconds+2
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, offering a similar texture with a slight tang.The Benson Street+1Spaceships and Laser Beams+1
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s recommended to prepare it at least 4 hours in advance, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
What other toppings can I use besides almonds?
Consider garnishing with toasted coconut, chocolate shavings, or additional fruit to complement the flavors.
Can I use a different type of cake?
Yes, pound cake, sponge cake, or brownies can be used as alternatives to angel food cake for a denser dessert.Gonna Want Seconds+3Midwestern HomeLife+3The Benson Street+3
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?
Ensure the dessert is not left to sit for more than 2 days, as the cake will naturally absorb moisture over time. Assembling shortly before the chilling period helps maintain texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free cake and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, this dessert can be adapted for a gluten-free diet.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Certainly. Homemade whipped cream can replace Cool Whip; whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form for best results.The Benson Street
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cake will continue to absorb moisture, potentially altering the texture.
Conclusion
Heaven On Earth Cake is a versatile and delightful dessert that combines light and creamy layers for a truly indulgent experience. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a go-to recipe for various occasions. Whether sticking to the classic cherry version or experimenting with different flavors, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
PrintHeaven On Earth Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake/No Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Heaven On Earth Cake is a light and creamy dessert made with angel food cake, cherry pie filling, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. It’s cool, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make—a perfect no-bake treat for potlucks, holidays, or any time you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
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1 (14 oz) angel food cake, cubed
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1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
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1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
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1 1/2 cups cold milk
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1 cup sour cream
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1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
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Optional: Sliced almonds or extra cherries for garnish
Instructions
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In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Set aside.
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In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cubed angel food cake evenly over the bottom.
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Spoon about half of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
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Add the remaining angel food cake cubes over the cherries.
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Pour the vanilla pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
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Spread the whipped topping evenly over everything.
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Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling on top and gently swirl it with a knife for a marbled effect.
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Garnish with sliced almonds or extra cherries, if desired.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and the dessert to set.
Notes
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You can use a homemade angel food cake if you prefer, but store-bought works great and saves time.
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Try swapping the cherry pie filling for blueberry or strawberry to switch things up.
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Let it chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of recipe)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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