If you’re hunting for a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as easy as it is heavenly, look no further than Heaven on Earth Cake. This no-bake treat beautifully layers fluffy angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, tangy sour cream, luscious cherry pie filling, and pillowy clouds of whipped topping for a dreamy creation that lives up to its angelic name. Every bite is a blissful balance of lightness and indulgence, making it impossible to resist whether you’re serving it at potlucks, holidays, or for a simple weeknight sweet fix.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 1 angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds toasted (optional)
How to Make Heaven on Earth Cake
Step 1: Cube the Angel Food Cake
Start by cutting your angel food cake into 1-inch cubes. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly even—a bit of variation makes the cake extra charming and ensures every bite will soak up plenty of pudding and cherry goodness. Set the cubes aside, and try not to steal too many as you work!
Step 2: Whisk the Pudding Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. The sour cream gives it a luxurious tang that perfectly complements the sweet cherries and cake.
Step 3: Assemble the First Layer
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, scatter half the cake cubes evenly across the bottom. Gently spread half the cherry pie filling over the cubes—don’t worry about making it perfect. The cherries will nestle themselves naturally between the cake pieces for juicy, jammy pockets of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Pudding Layer
Spoon half the creamy pudding mixture over the cherries. Gently spread it with a spatula to cover as much as you can. The pudding will begin to seep between all those cubes, ready to soak in every last bit of cherry flavor.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Now it’s time to double up on the deliciousness! Layer the remaining cake cubes over the pudding, followed by the rest of the pudding mixture and the last of the cherry pie filling. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rustic—the layering is what gives Heaven on Earth Cake its signature texture and beauty.
Step 6: Spread the Whipped Topping
Finish your masterpiece by spreading the whipped topping in an even layer across the entire surface. This cloud-like finish brings all the elements together and guarantees a luscious spoonful every time.
Step 7: Garnish and Chill
If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds right on top for a touch of crunch and a pretty presentation. Cover the dish and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better! The waiting is the hardest part, but the dreamy, melded flavors are absolutely worth it.
How to Serve Heaven on Earth Cake
Garnishes
For that classic touch, a generous sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds adds a buttery crunch and visual contrast. Try a drizzle of white chocolate or a few fresh berries for a pop of color—this Heaven on Earth Cake is anything but shy when it comes to style!
Side Dishes
Because Heaven on Earth Cake is rich, it pairs famously with light accompaniments: serve it after a fresh, simple meal or next to a cup of hot coffee or tea. If you’re making it part of a dessert buffet, a bowl of fresh berries or fruit salad is a refreshing match.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Heaven on Earth Cake straight from the baking dish for homey comfort, or make it party-worthy by layering it in individual glass cups or mason jars for a fun twist. For special occasions, dress it up on a cake stand or add edible flowers for extra flair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Heaven on Earth Cake keeps beautifully! Simply cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—the flavors just keep melding and improving.
Freezing
Although Heaven on Earth Cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions if needed. Place slices in a sealed container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Reheating
No need for reheating—this dessert is served chilled so it’s ready to go straight from the fridge. If you’ve frozen your cake, let it thaw gently to retain that dreamy, fluffy consistency. Enjoy it icy cold for a uniquely refreshing treat in the summer!
FAQs
Can I use a homemade angel food cake for this recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade angel food cake brings even more flavor and a tender crumb, but store-bought works beautifully and saves time. Either way, the end result is pure Heaven on Earth Cake bliss.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can swap in plain Greek yogurt for a similar tang and creaminess. Just be sure to use a thick, unsweetened variety for the best texture.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Definitely! While cherry is classic, blueberry, strawberry, or even peach pie filling all put a fun twist on Heaven on Earth Cake. Pick your favorite or combine a few for a unique spin.
How far in advance can I make it?
Heaven on Earth Cake is ideal for making ahead, as a few hours in the fridge helps the flavors meld together. You can assemble it the night before and let it chill overnight for ultimate convenience and taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free or can it be adapted?
As written, it’s not gluten-free, but you can easily adapt it by choosing a gluten-free angel food cake and double-checking your pudding and cherry pie filling labels. The rest is naturally gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Heaven on Earth Cake, now is your moment to discover why it’s such a beloved crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to put together, endlessly adaptable, and always receives rave reviews. I hope it becomes a new favorite at your table just as it has at mine!
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Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the heavenly delight of this no-bake Heaven on Earth Cake. Layers of angel food cake, creamy pudding, cherry pie filling, and whipped topping create a light and luscious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds toasted (optional)
Instructions
Instructions:
- Cut the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream until smooth and thickened.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cake cubes on the bottom.
- Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the cake.
- Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the cherries.
- Repeat layers with remaining cake cubes, pudding, and cherries.
- Spread whipped topping evenly over the top.
- Garnish with toasted almonds if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Notes
Notes:
- You can switch up the flavor by using blueberry or strawberry pie filling.
- For an extra decadent touch, drizzle with white chocolate or add crushed cookies on top.
- This dessert is light, fluffy, and perfect for potlucks or holidays.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Refrigerated
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
