If you’re in the mood for a light, fruity dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better, then you’re going to fall in love with this Heaven on Earth Cake. Made with store-bought angel food cake, luscious cherry pie filling, and layers of vanilla pudding and whipped topping, this no-bake dessert is the definition of easy elegance.
Whether you’re prepping for a backyard BBQ, a baby shower, or just want a chilled treat after dinner, this is one of those recipes that delivers with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Bonus? You won’t even need to turn on your oven!
Why It’s Called Heaven on Earth Cake
There’s a reason this dessert has such an ethereal name. The combination of airy angel food cake, creamy pudding, tangy sour cream, and bright cherry pie filling creates a flavor and texture profile that’s light, refreshing, and satisfying all at once. Every bite is soft, sweet, and cool — making it feel like a little piece of dessert heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a few pantry and fridge staples come together to create a dish that looks like you spent hours on it.
Main Ingredients:
- 13 ounces prepared Angel Food Cake
– You can buy one premade from your grocery store’s bakery section or use leftovers from a homemade version. Cut it into 1-inch cubes with a serrated knife for best results. - 21 ounces Cherry Pie Filling (1 can)
– Provides a tangy, fruity contrast that complements the sweet vanilla layers beautifully. - 1 box (3.5 ounces) Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
– The base for the creamy layer that ties everything together. - 1½ cups 2% Milk
– Used to prepare the pudding; 2% gives just the right consistency. - 1 cup Sour Cream
– Adds a lovely tang to the pudding layer and balances out the sweetness. - 6 ounces Cool Whip (or any whipped topping)
– Makes the top layer light and fluffy while holding everything together. - ¼ cup Slivered or Sliced Almonds (optional)
– For added texture and a nutty finish on top.
How to Make Heaven on Earth Cake
Despite its impressive presentation, this recipe is quick and easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Prep the Cake Layer
Start by cutting the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes using a serrated knife. A gentle sawing motion prevents the cake from squishing.
2. Build the First Layer
Place half of the cubed cake into the bottom of a deep 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it forms the foundation of your dessert.
3. Add the First Fruit Layer
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes. Spread it gently to cover as much surface area as possible.
4. Repeat the Cake Layer
Add the remaining cake cubes on top of the cherry layer.
5. Make the Creamy Pudding Mix
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream. Mix for 1–2 minutes until the pudding is smooth and thickened. This creamy layer gives the dessert its signature texture and flavor.
6. Add the Pudding Layer
Spread the pudding mixture over the second layer of cake cubes, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Top with Whipped Topping
Spread the Cool Whip across the top of the pudding layer. You can use a spoon or offset spatula to create decorative swirls if you’d like.
8. Finish with Cherries and Almonds
Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling in swirls or dollops over the Cool Whip. For an extra touch, sprinkle sliced or slivered almonds across the top.
9. Chill Before Serving
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the layers to meld and the flavors to develop.
Serving Suggestions
Heaven on Earth Cake is best served cold. Cut into squares and serve with an extra spoonful of cherry topping if you have extra on the side. It’s light enough for summer, but indulgent enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh mint sprigs
- Shaved white chocolate
- Powdered sugar dusting
- More almonds for added crunch
Tips & Tricks
- Angel Food Cake Alternatives: Swap in pound cake or sponge cake if you prefer a denser dessert.
- Make Ahead: This cake is actually better the next day once all the layers have had time to soak and settle.
- Pudding Flavor Swap: Try white chocolate, cheesecake, or even lemon pudding for a twist on the classic.
- Fruit Variations: Blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry pie filling can be used in place of cherry for a different flavor profile.
Storage Notes
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This dessert is best enjoyed within that time frame as the cake may begin to break down and become too soggy.
Freezing isn’t recommended, as it can drastically alter the texture of the cake and whipped topping.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 68 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 24 mg |
| Sodium | 370 mg |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Calcium | 153 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the brands and specific ingredients used. These are approximate figures.
Final Thoughts
Heaven on Earth Cake is the kind of dessert that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something memorable. With its no-bake convenience, eye-catching layers, and irresistible flavor, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday dessert table, or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.