Name: Heaven on Earth Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486646H26M16S
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 prepared angel food cake (store-bought or homemade); 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or strawberry, blueberry, etc.); 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1½ cups cold milk; 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version); 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed; Optional: sliced almonds, extra cherries, or white chocolate chips for garnish

Heaven on Earth Cake is a deliciously simple dessert that combines the light, airy texture of angel food cake with a rich, creamy pudding mixture and a sweet cherry topping. This no-bake treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. With its layers of cake, fruit, and a dreamy pudding filling, it’s a dessert that will quickly become a crowd favorite.

Heaven on Earth Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is the perfect balance of light and rich. The fluffy angel food cake soaks up the luscious cherry pie filling, while the creamy pudding mixture adds a smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy whipped topping. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to impress guests or just craving a sweet indulgence, Heaven on Earth Cake is guaranteed to hit the spot. It’s simple to make, and the flavor combination of fruit, cake, and creamy pudding is absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

1 prepared angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or strawberry, blueberry, etc.)
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1½ cups cold milk
1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Optional: sliced almonds, extra cherries, or white chocolate chips for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cake Base:
Cut the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes. Layer about half of the cake cubes in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Add Cherry Layer:
Spoon half the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake layer.
Add Remaining Cake:
Layer the rest of the cake cubes over the cherry filling.
Make the Creamy Pudding Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until slightly thickened (about 1–2 minutes). Fold in the sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour the pudding mixture over the layered cake and gently spread to cover evenly. Top with the full tub of whipped topping and smooth out.
Final Cherry Topping:
Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling in dollops over the top. You can swirl it gently or leave it as is.
Chill & Garnish:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture. Before serving, garnish with sliced almonds, extra fruit, or white chocolate curls if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 10–12 people and takes about 20 minutes to prepare. After chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, your cake will be ready to serve. If you prefer a more developed flavor, letting it sit overnight will allow the ingredients to meld even better.

Variations

Blueberry-Lemon Twist: For a refreshing summer version, use blueberry pie filling and lemon pudding.
Cheesecake Version: Swap the sour cream for softened cream cheese for a cheesecake-like flavor and texture.
Individual Servings: Make this dessert in cups or jars for a fun, portable party treat!
Different Fruits: Switch up the fruit topping to match your preference or the season—strawberries, peaches, or raspberries work beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store Heaven on Earth Cake covered in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.
Reheating: This dessert is best served cold, so there is no need to reheat. Just chill it before serving, and enjoy its refreshing flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade angel food cake for this recipe?

Yes, you can use homemade angel food cake. However, using a store-bought version will save you time and still result in a delicious dessert.

Can I use other pie fillings besides cherry?

Absolutely! You can swap the cherry pie filling for strawberry, blueberry, or even peach, depending on your preferences or what’s in season.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

For a lighter version, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use a lower-fat whipped topping.

How long does the cake need to chill?

For the best flavor and texture, let the cake chill for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is even better!

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, sliced almonds or any other nut would be a great addition for a bit of crunch on top. They also add an extra layer of flavor.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, if you make or purchase a gluten-free angel food cake, this dessert can be made gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, Heaven on Earth Cake can be made a day in advance. The longer it chills, the more the flavors will meld together.

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute whipped cream for the whipped topping if you prefer. Just be sure to whip it to soft peaks before adding.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding?

Yes! You can switch the vanilla pudding for other flavors like chocolate, butterscotch, or even cheesecake for a unique twist.

Is there a substitute for the whipped topping?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut whipped topping can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

Heaven on Earth Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. With layers of light angel food cake, sweet fruit filling, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a dessert that everyone will rave about. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just as a treat for the family, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.