Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Heaven On Earth Cake is a decadent, no-bake dessert that layers angel food cake with creamy vanilla pudding, cherry pie filling, and whipped topping. Its light texture and sweet, fruity flavor make it perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something easy yet indulgent. This dessert truly lives up to its name—light, fluffy, and heavenly.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)vanilla instant pudding mixcold milkplain Greek yogurtsour creamcherry pie fillingwhipped topping (such as Cool Whip)almond slivered or sliced almonds (optional)
directions
Cut the angel food cake into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens.
Fold in the sour cream and Greek yogurt into the pudding until smooth and creamy.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cake cubes evenly at the bottom.
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the cherries.
Repeat the layers with the remaining cake, cherry pie filling, and pudding mixture.
Top the cake with an even layer of whipped topping.
Sprinkle with slivered or sliced almonds, if using.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 4 hours or overnightTotal time: 4 hours 15 minutes (minimum)
Variations
Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a different flavor profile.
Substitute flavored yogurt (like vanilla or cherry) for added taste.
Add a layer of crushed pineapple for extra fruitiness.
Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce on top before serving for a richer twist.
Use pound cake instead of angel food cake for a denser texture.
storage/reheating
Store Heaven On Earth Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Best enjoyed cold; not suitable for freezing as the texture may change.Do not reheat—this is meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
What is Heaven On Earth Cake made of?
It consists of angel food cake, vanilla pudding, cherry pie filling, Greek yogurt, sour cream, and whipped topping.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead so the flavors can meld together.
Is this dessert too sweet?
It’s pleasantly sweet with a balance from the tanginess of the yogurt and sour cream.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Absolutely, but make sure it’s thick enough to hold the layers together.
Is this a healthy dessert?
It’s lighter than traditional cakes but still a treat—moderation is key.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free angel food cake.
What size dish should I use?
A standard 9×13 inch dish works best for layering.
Do I have to use almonds?
No, they’re optional but add a nice crunch and contrast.
Can kids help make this?
Yes! It’s an easy, no-bake dessert perfect for kids to assemble.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger dish or two pans.
Conclusion
Heaven On Earth Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert that brings together light, creamy, and fruity elements in one dreamy bite. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s called “heaven on earth.”
PrintHeaven On Earth Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 4–12 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigeration (no-bake), Layering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic no-bake trifle-style dessert featuring layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding with sour cream, whipped topping, and a nutty almond finish.
Ingredients
- 14 oz angel food cake, cut into 1‑inch cubes
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 oz Cool Whip (or equivalent whipped topping), thawed
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk pudding mix, milk and sour cream until smooth. Let it sit until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
- Cut angel food cake into 1‑inch cubes.
- In an 8×8 or 9×9 pan, layer half the cake cubes evenly.
- Spread half of the cherry pie filling over cake.
- Add remaining cake cubes in an even layer.
- Spread pudding‑sour cream mixture evenly over the cake.
- Top with thawed Cool Whip in an even layer.
- Swirl remaining cherry pie filling gently on top of the Cool Whip.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 8–12 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top.
Notes
- Feel free to swap cherry pie filling with peach, blueberry, or strawberry.
- Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if you prefer fresh dairy.
- Make-ahead friendly – flavors deepen when chilled overnight.
- Store covered in fridge for up to 3 days.
- For gluten-free, use gluten-free angel food cake or pound cake.