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This layered dreamy dessert blends angel food cake’s soft bite with smooth pudding and sweet cherries for a truly craveable treat. I whipped it up for my sister’s birthday during a hot summer because I wanted something special that didn’t mean turning on the oven.
When I first brought this to a family get-together, my grandma asked for the directions right away. Now, it’s our go-to for celebrations, especially when none of us are in the mood for a heavy cake.
Luscious Ingredients
- Optional chopped nuts: If you like a little crunch, toss these on top for awesome contrast
- Whipped topping: Makes the cream cheese layer light and keeps everything fluffy
- Cream cheese: Gives that thick, cheesecake flavor everyone digs
- Cherry pie filling: Adds sweet flavor and a gorgeous finish
- Angel food cake cubes: Light and airy—soaks up all the creamy good stuff
- Sour cream: Cuts the sweetness with a tangy kick
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: You’ll get quick, simple creaminess, no stove needed
- Milk: Go for whole milk for a deeper, richer taste
Easy-To-Follow Steps
- Add Your Final Touches:
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the top layer—cover every corner for color and sweetness. Sprinkle nuts over the edge if you like, then snug some plastic wrap directly on top so no moisture drips in.
- Layer Everything Up:
- Start by laying half your angel food cake cubes across the bottom. Smooth half the pudding mix on top, making sure you get those corners. Drop on half the cream cheese mix, spread carefully. Now, do all those layers one more time so you see the different sections.
- Get the Cream Cheese Layer Ready:
- Beat softened cream cheese with a mixer till completely smooth—should be creamy with no lumps, takes a few minutes. Slowly fold in the whipped topping. Use big, gentle scoops so it stays fluffy. This mixture is what makes it taste like cheesecake.
- Mix Up the Pudding:
- Whisk instant vanilla pudding with cold milk for two minutes until thick. Gently fold in sour cream—don’t rush, this keeps it light and airy. This gives you a creamy, moist layer.
- Cut the Angel Food Cake:
- Slice your store-bought or homemade cake into chunks about an inch wide. Try for even pieces so every bite has a mix of texture. This is your base.
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The reason everyone in my family asks for this is because the mix of fluffy cake and rich cream works so well together. My aunt even dubbed it “cloud food” since it’s so light and satisfying.
Top Swaps
The best thing about Heaven on Earth Cake is how you can change it up. I’ve done it with blueberry pie filling for July Fourth or strawberries for Valentine’s Day. Want chocolate? Use chocolate pudding and toss on some shavings. You can swap in pound cake if you’d rather have a denser base—just know it won't be quite as light as usual.
How To Store
This gets even yummier if it hangs out in the fridge a bit and soaks in the flavors. Keep it covered in the fridge for three days, but know it gets moister each day. For single servings, freeze in sealed containers for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight so it’s not soggy.
Tasty Ways To Serve
Heaven on Earth Cake is great by itself but fancier with simple extras. I sometimes put a few fresh berries on each plate, or pour a little chocolate sauce down before the slice. If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with a cup of coffee or something sweet like Moscato.
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This is one dessert your family will ask for again and again. It’s simple to make and fancy enough for any party. Dig in and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it okay to swap the cherry topping for something else?
Totally fine! Try it with blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie filling. Even apple or peach will switch things up nicely.
- → How long can I make this ahead of time?
You’ve got up to 2 days! Letting it chill overnight makes the flavors even better since everything soaks together.
- → Can I make this less heavy or lower calorie?
Sure thing! Swap in light cream cheese and sour cream, fat-free whipped topping, and sugar-free pudding for a lighter bite.
- → Are single-serve versions possible?
For sure! Build smaller servings in see-through cups or jars for parties. They look cute and are super easy to share.
- → How do I keep leftovers fresh?
Just cover and keep it in the fridge. It’ll hold up for about 3-4 days, so snack when you want.
- → Can this dessert go in the freezer?
It’s not the best since freezing messes with the creamy part, but if you do, freeze up to a month and thaw it in the fridge before eating.