Heaven on Earth Cake: The Ultimate Light, Fruity Dessert You’ll Crave

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If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s light, luscious, and full of fresh flavor, look no further than this Heaven on Earth Cake. Combining airy angel food cake with creamy cheesecake pudding and bright cherry pie filling, it’s a delightful treat perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just spoiling yourself.

With layers of fluffy cake, smooth pudding, tangy sour cream, and luscious cherries, this dessert is a breeze to assemble yet guaranteed to impress. The optional roasted almonds add a pleasant crunch to balance the soft textures. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers beautiful results every time.

What Makes This Cake So Heavenly?

The secret lies in the combination of contrasting textures and flavors that work in harmony:

  • Angel Food Cake: Known for its delicate, cloud-like texture and subtle sweetness, it provides the perfect base that soaks up flavors without becoming soggy.

  • Instant Cheesecake Pudding: Adds creamy, tangy richness reminiscent of classic cheesecake, but with minimal effort.

  • Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt): Enhances the creaminess with a slight tang, making the dessert more complex and refreshing.

  • Cherry Pie Filling: Bursts of juicy cherries add a fruity, slightly tart contrast to the sweet cream layers.

  • Cool Whip: Lightens the texture with fluffy sweetness, creating a dreamy finish.

  • Roasted Almonds: Optional but highly recommended for a toasty crunch and nutty aroma.

Together, these layers create a multi-dimensional dessert experience that melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting more.

Ingredients with US Measurements

  • 1 angel food cake, prepared (store-bought or homemade, about 10 inches in diameter)

  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix

  • 1 1/2 cups milk (preferably whole or 2%)

  • 1 cup sour cream (can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 pack (30 oz) cherry pie filling

  • 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip (or other whipped topping)

  • 1 tablespoon roasted almond slices (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Angel Food Cake

Cut the angel food cake into roughly 1-inch cubes. Set aside in a large bowl. These cubes will soak up the creamy layers later.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Pudding Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mix, milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set this rich, tangy pudding mixture aside.

Step 3: Layer the Cake and Cherry Filling

Take a 13×9 inch baking dish and begin assembling your dessert layers.

  • Place half of the angel food cake cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish.

  • Spoon half of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake cubes, distributing the cherries and syrup generously.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering process:

  • Add the remaining angel food cake cubes on top of the cherries.

  • Then spoon the rest of the cherry pie filling evenly on top.

Step 5: Add Pudding and Cool Whip

Pour the prepared cheesecake pudding mixture over the layered cake and cherries, spreading it out evenly so it seeps into all the crevices.
Next, spoon the Cool Whip over the pudding layer and gently spread it for a smooth, fluffy topping.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This chilling step allows the cake cubes to absorb the pudding and cherry flavors, melding all layers into a harmonious, luscious dessert.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle the top with roasted almond slices for a beautiful presentation and added texture.

Prep Time and Calories

  • Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes active prep, plus 4+ hours chilling.

  • Calories: About 300-350 kcal per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used).

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh angel food cake: For best results, either use a fresh store-bought angel food cake or make your own from scratch if you have time. Stale cake won’t absorb the pudding as well.

  • Chill well: Don’t rush the refrigeration step. The longer the cake chills, the better the flavors meld and the texture softens perfectly.

  • Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt: For a healthier option, Greek yogurt adds protein and reduces fat while maintaining the creamy texture.

  • Make it nut-free: Simply skip the almonds or substitute with toasted coconut flakes if allergies are a concern.

  • Add other fruit layers: Swap cherries with blueberries, strawberries, or mixed berries for seasonal variety.

  • Make individual servings: Assemble this dessert in small parfait glasses or mason jars for a pretty presentation.

Variations to Try

  • Chocolate Heaven on Earth: Add a layer of chocolate pudding mix instead of cheesecake pudding for a chocolate twist.

  • Tropical Delight: Use pineapple chunks or mango slices in place of cherry pie filling and add toasted coconut on top.

  • Peach Poke Cake Style: Incorporate peach pie filling and garnish with chopped pecans.

  • Coffee-Infused: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the pudding mix for a mocha flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert shines when served chilled straight from the fridge. Pair it with:

  • A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

  • Vanilla ice cream or sorbet for extra indulgence.

  • A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce to elevate the flavor even more.

  • Fresh mint leaves as a garnish to add color and freshness.

Storing and Leftovers

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Flavors improve after sitting overnight, making it perfect to prepare a day ahead.

  • Avoid freezing, as the texture of angel food cake changes when thawed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal cooking required, no oven needed if using store-bought cake.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.

  • Versatile: Easily customized with different fruits and toppings.

  • Light but Indulgent: Angel food cake keeps it light while creamy pudding and cherries satisfy sweet cravings.

  • Make Ahead: Great for prepping in advance, reducing day-of stress.

Final Thoughts

This Heaven on Earth Cake is a heavenly dessert in every sense: light, creamy, fruity, and utterly irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a stunning layered dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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