Introduction
This aptly named Heaven on Earth Cake is a no-bake dream dessert that combines layers of light angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and tangy cherry pie filling. My family calls it the โcelebration cakeโ because itโs perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent yet effortless. With its fluffy texture and sweet, creamy flavors, this dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients ๐
For the Cake:
- 1 package angel food cake (or 1 prepared angel food cake), cut into cubes ๐ฐ
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix ๐ฎ
- 1 ยฝ cups milk ๐ฅ
- 1 cup sour cream ๐งโ๐ณ
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling ๐
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream or whipped topping
- Toasted almonds or shredded coconut
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Base:
- Cut the angel food cake into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until thickened and fully combined.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- In a 9ร13-inch dish, layer half of the cubed angel food cake at the bottom.
- Spread half of the pudding and cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake layer.
- Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cream layer.
- Repeat the layers: add the remaining angel food cake cubes, followed by the remaining cream mixture, and then the rest of the cherry pie filling.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Before serving, add optional toppings like whipped cream, toasted almonds, or maraschino cherries for a decorative finish.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Fruit Layer: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie filling for a different twist.
- Make It Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar-free pudding mix to create a lighter version of this dessert.
- Layering Tip: Use a trifle dish for a beautiful presentation that showcases the dessertโs layers.
Why Youโll Love It
This Heaven on Earth Cake is a perfect balance of light and creamy textures with just the right amount of sweetness. Itโs simple to make, feeds a crowd, and offers endless customization options. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this dessert will have everyone asking for seconds!