Craving a heavenly dessert that’s a breeze to make? Dive into the delightful layers of a no-bake heaven on earth cake. This luscious treat combines fluffy angel food cake, sweet-tart cherry pie filling, and a creamy pudding layer for a taste of paradise in every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a few hours of chilling, you can whip up this indulgent dessert to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
Layering cake pieces, cherry pie filling, pudding mixture, and a dollop of cool whip, this recipe creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this easy-to-follow recipe for heaven on earth cake promises a decadent experience that’s sure to please any dessert lover. So, get ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss with this irresistible no-bake creation.
Ingredients
Creating this heavenly dessert requires a few key ingredients that come together to make a delightful treat.
Main Components
- 1 prepared Angel Food Cake (store-bought or homemade and cooled)
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz can)
- 1 Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (3/4 oz, just the mix – do not prepare based on the box instructions)
- 1 1/2 cups Milk
- 1 cup Sour Cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 8 oz Whipped Topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 Tbsp Almond Slices (toasted)
- Pound cake, chocolate cake, vanilla sponge cake, or brownies instead of Angel Food Cake
- Tube cake pan for homemade Angel Food Cake
- Boxed Angel Food Cake mix for a semi-homemade version
- Completing steps in advance by preparing the Angel Food Cake a day ahead
- A knife with a serrated blade for cutting the fluffy texture of the cake
- Chopped or slivered almonds for a different garnish
- Fresh mint leaves for a decorative touch
Equipment Needed
When preparing the heavenly delight of a no-bake heaven on earth cake, having the right equipment can make the process even smoother. Here’s a list of essential tools and equipment you’ll need to create this delectable dessert:
- 9×9 inch cake pan (metal or glass)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric beater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife for cutting the angel food cake
- Serving spatula or spoon for layering and serving
Having these tools at your disposal will not only streamline the cake-making process but also ensure that your heaven on earth cake turns out perfectly layered and ready to be enjoyed by all.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Base
- Cut the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes.
- Layer half of the cake pieces in the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan.
- Top with 2/3 of the can of the cherry pie filling.
- Add the remaining cake pieces as the next layer.
- Whisk together the milk and the vanilla pudding mix in a medium mixing bowl.
- Stir in the sour cream or plain Greek yogurt until well combined.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the layered cake.
- Quickly spread the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Finish by topping the cake with the remaining cherry pie filling.
Note: Refrigerate the cake for 4-5 hours before serving and only top it with toasted almond slices right before serving.
Baking the Cake
To prepare the heavenly dessert, you’ll need to bake the cake to perfection. Follow these simple instructions to ensure a delightful outcome.
Oven Settings
Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature for baking the angel food cake. Make sure to adjust the oven rack to the center position for even baking.
Baking Time
Bake the angel food cake according to the package instructions or your preferred recipe. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent overbaking, as angel food cake tends to dry out quickly. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding with the next steps.
Assembling the Cake
Assembling this heavenly dessert is a straightforward process that involves layering the different components and adding the finishing touches for a delightful treat.
Layering Instructions
- Cut the angel food cake into bite-sized cubes for easy layering.
- Begin by placing half of the cake pieces at the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan.
- Spoon two-thirds of the cherry pie filling over the first layer of cake.
- Add the remaining cake pieces on top of the cherry filling.
- Prepare the creamy pudding mixture by whisking together the vanilla pudding mix with milk and sour cream until smooth.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cake in the baking pan.
- Top the pudding layer with a generous layer of whipped topping.
- Finish the layering by adding the remaining cherry pie filling on top of the whipped topping.
Serving Suggestions
As I prepare to serve this heavenly dessert to my guests, I like to add a special touch to enhance the experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your heaven on earth cake even more delightful:
- Garnish with Fresh Cherries: Before serving, consider adding a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the top of the cake with a few fresh cherries. This not only adds visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the cherry pie filling in the cake.
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of rich chocolate sauce over each slice of heaven on earth cake can take it to the next level. The combination of cherries, cream, and chocolate is truly decadent.
- Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream: To add an extra creamy element, serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. The lightness of the whipped cream perfectly balances the richness of the cake layers.
- Sprinkle with Toasted Almonds: Just before serving, sprinkle some toasted almond slices over the cake. The nuttiness and crunch of the almonds provide a lovely contrast to the soft and creamy layers of the dessert.
- Pair with a Hot Beverage: To complete the dessert experience, consider serving the heaven on earth cake with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage will complement the cool creaminess of the cake.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing this delightful heaven on earth cake, a few key tips can help maintain its freshness and flavor. Here’s how to ensure your cake stays delicious:
Refrigeration
To store the heaven on earth cake, cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator. It can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 days. The cool temperature will help preserve the cake’s texture and flavors.
Freezing Instructions
Unfortunately, due to the sour cream in this cake, freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this cake fresh or refrigerated for the best taste and experience.
Variations
Fruit Variations
For a refreshing twist, consider using different fruit pie fillings to customize your heaven on earth cake. Try substitutes such as strawberry pie filling, blueberry pie filling, or even a mix of berry pie fillings for a unique flavor experience.
Topping Alternatives
Experiment with alternative toppings to elevate your cake. Instead of sliced almonds, try garnishing with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch. You can also use crushed pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add a decadent flair to your dessert.
Conclusion
Creating a heavenly dessert like the no-bake heaven on earth cake is a delightful experience that promises to impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. With its layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, creamy pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, this cake is a true treat for any occasion. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can easily whip up a decadent and visually stunning dessert that will leave everyone wanting more. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cake flavors, fruit fillings, and garnishes to personalize this heavenly creation to your liking. Remember to refrigerate the cake for optimal freshness and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite. Indulge in this heavenly delight and watch as it becomes a favorite among your family and friends.