Name: Heaven on Earth Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 prepared angel food cake, cut into bite-sized cubes; 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling; 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix; 1½ cups cold milk; 1 cup sour cream; 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed; 2 tbsp sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)

Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers fluffy angel food cake with creamy vanilla pudding, tart cherry pie filling, and whipped topping. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Heaven on Earth Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple to prepare and doesn’t require any baking. The combination of light cake, creamy pudding, and sweet cherries creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or when I want a quick dessert without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

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

Angel food cake, cut into cubes
Cherry pie filling
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Milk
Sour cream
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by cutting the angel food cake into bite-sized cubes.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth and thickened.
In a 9×13-inch dish, I layer half of the cake cubes evenly on the bottom.
I spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
I add the remaining cake cubes on top of the cherry layer.
I spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cake layers.
I top it off with the whipped topping, spreading it smoothly.
I drizzle the remaining cherry pie filling over the top and sprinkle with sliced almonds, if using.
I refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until set, before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to assemble, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Variations

I sometimes use different pie fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or peach for a new twist.
For a citrusy flavor, I substitute the vanilla pudding with lemon pudding and use lemon pie filling.
I occasionally add a layer of crushed pineapple for extra sweetness and texture.
For a nut-free version, I omit the sliced almonds.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this is a chilled dessert, there’s no need for reheating. I avoid freezing it, as the texture may become watery upon thawing.

FAQs

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

Yes, I can use homemade whipped cream. I whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form and use it in place of the whipped topping.

Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prepare it the night before, allowing it to chill overnight. This enhances the flavors and ensures the dessert is well set.

Can I use a different type of cake?

Yes, I can substitute the angel food cake with pound cake or sponge cake. However, I keep in mind that these cakes are denser and may alter the texture of the dessert.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If I prefer, I can use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?

To avoid sogginess, I ensure the cake cubes are not too small and that I layer the ingredients evenly. Chilling the dessert for the recommended time also helps maintain the right consistency.

Conclusion

Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its layers of soft cake, creamy pudding, and sweet cherries, it’s a treat that I enjoy making for various occasions. Whether I’m serving it at a gathering or indulging in a personal sweet craving, this dessert never disappoints.