Heaven On Earth Cake is an aptly named dessert that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a divine treat for any occasion. This no-bake cake layers light and fluffy angel food cake with sweet cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and luscious Cool Whip. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that will surely wow your guests with its beautiful presentation and heavenly taste. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any special celebration, this cake is a must-try for anyone who loves a rich, fruity, and creamy dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk: Provides the liquid base for the pudding mixture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy richness to the pudding mixture.
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling: Offers a sweet and tart flavor, and a beautiful red color.
- 1 (8-ounce) tub Cool Whip, thawed: Adds a light and fluffy topping.
- 1 (14-ounce) prepared angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes: The base of the cake, providing a light and airy texture.
- 1 (3.5-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding: Creates a creamy and smooth layer.
Instructions
- Layering the Bliss:
- Begin by evenly layering half of the angel food cake pieces in a 9×13 inch baking dish. This forms the first layer of your cake, providing a light and airy base.
- Cherry Blossom:
- Pour ⅔ of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake pieces, spreading it out to cover the cake. This adds a burst of fruity delight and a beautiful red color.
- Revel in Layers:
- Repeat with the remaining angel food cake pieces, layering them on top of the cherry pie filling. This creates a symphony of textures and ensures every bite is deliciously layered.
- Creamy Clouds:
- In a medium mixing bowl, blend the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until velvety smooth. This mixture should be well-combined and free of lumps.
- Spread this decadent pudding mixture evenly over the cake layers. This adds a creamy, smooth layer that contrasts beautifully with the light cake and fruity filling.
- Whipped Elegance:
- Complete the masterpiece by spreading the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer. Ensure that the Cool Whip covers the entire surface, making each bite lusciously creamy.
- Garnish with Grace:
- Adorn the top with the remaining cherry pie filling. Drop small spoonfuls of the filling and gently spread it out for a final touch of visual appeal and fruity richness.
- Chill and Serve:
- Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set, making it easier to slice.
- Once chilled, slice the cake into generous servings and enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors and textures.
Serving
Heaven On Earth Cake is best served chilled. It makes an excellent dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion. The layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, creamy pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip create a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that everyone will love. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect end to any meal.
Notes
- Angel Food Cake: You can use a store-bought angel food cake for convenience, or make your own if you prefer.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry for a different flavor profile.
- Pudding Mix: Ensure you use instant pudding mix for this recipe. Cook-and-serve pudding will not set properly in this no-bake dessert.
- Cool Whip Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. Whip 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with ¼ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may become slightly softer as it sits, but it will still be delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, Heaven On Earth Cake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the cake as directed and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
Can I use a different type of cake? While angel food cake is recommended for its light and airy texture, you can use pound cake or sponge cake as alternatives. However, the texture and flavor of the final dessert may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have sour cream? You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling? Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling can be used if you prefer. Ensure it is well-chilled before layering it into the cake.
How do I prevent the Cool Whip from melting too quickly? Make sure the Cool Whip is fully thawed but still cold when you spread it over the cake. Also, refrigerate the cake immediately after assembly to help it set.
Can I add other toppings? Yes, you can add toppings such as toasted nuts, chocolate shavings, or additional fresh fruit for extra flavor and decoration.
What is the best way to slice the cake? Use a sharp knife and clean it between slices to ensure neat, even pieces. Chilling the cake thoroughly before slicing will also help maintain its shape.
Can I freeze Heaven On Earth Cake? Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the Cool Whip and pudding may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.
How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe makes approximately 12 generous servings. You can adjust the serving size based on your needs.
Can I use sugar-free pudding mix and Cool Whip? Yes, you can use sugar-free pudding mix and Cool Whip if you prefer a lower-sugar version of this dessert. The taste and texture will remain largely the same.
In conclusion, Heaven On Earth Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines the lightness of angel food cake with the rich flavors of cherry pie filling, creamy pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip. This no-bake cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this heavenly dessert and bask in the compliments that will surely follow!