Name: Cherries in the Snow
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted; ⅓ cup whole milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed; 1 pre-baked angel food cake (approximately 15 ounces), torn into ¾-1 inch pieces; 42 ounces cherry pie filling (two 21-ounce cans)

Cherries in the Snow is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the airy texture of angel food cake with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese layer, all topped with vibrant cherry pie filling. It’s a visually appealing treat that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this dessert incredibly convenient and satisfying. It’s perfect for gatherings, requiring minimal preparation time and no baking. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces cream cheese, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
⅓ cup whole milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
1 pre-baked angel food cake (approximately 15 ounces), torn into ¾-1 inch pieces
42 ounces cherry pie filling (two 21-ounce cans)

Directions

In a large bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it’s light and fluffy.
I add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese and continue beating until fully incorporated.
I pour in the milk and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s smooth and fluffy.
I gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Carefully, I fold the torn pieces of angel food cake into the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without breaking them up too much.
I transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
I spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cream cheese and cake mixture.
I refrigerate the dessert for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to allow it to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional chilling time of 30 minutes to 2 hours, making the total time around 45 minutes.

Variations

Fruit Toppings: I sometimes substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry pie fillings for a different flavor profile.
Cake Base: Instead of angel food cake, I occasionally use pound cake or sponge cake for a denser texture.
Flavor Enhancements: Adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture gives it a delightful almond flavor that pairs well with cherries.
Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, I layer the dessert in a trifle dish, alternating layers of the cream mixture and fruit topping.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dessert maintains its shape and flavor when chilled. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture may become compromised upon thawing.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare Cherries in the Snow?

I often prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, I can use homemade whipped cream. However, I ensure it’s stabilized to maintain the dessert’s structure.

Is it possible to make this dessert lighter?

Absolutely. I opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping to lower the calorie content without sacrificing much flavor.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, I can use fresh cherries. I cook them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a homemade topping.

What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?

I use any similar-sized dish or divide the dessert into smaller containers for individual servings.

Conclusion

Cherries in the Snow is a simple yet elegant dessert that I enjoy making for various occasions. Its no-bake nature and delightful combination of flavors make it a go-to recipe in my collection. Whether for a family gathering or a special event, it’s sure to impress.