This Heaven On Earth Cake is a layered dessert made with moist cake pieces, creamy vanilla pudding, tart cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes. The combination of light, fluffy cake with the rich, sweet layers of pudding and cherries makes every bite a little taste of heaven!
Heaven On Earth Cake
I love making this dessert for gatherings because it’s so simple yet always impresses. The cake pieces absorb the pudding and whipped topping, becoming incredibly moist and flavorful, while the cherry pie filling adds just the right amount of tartness to balance the sweetness. It’s one of those desserts that looks beautiful in a trifle dish or glass pan, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead, which makes entertaining a breeze.
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, or serve it after a rich dinner like Luxurious Caramel Apple Cheesecake Recipe for a refreshing, light finish.
Why You’ll Love This Heaven On Earth Cake Recipe
- Easy and Quick: With pre-made ingredients, this dessert comes together in no time and requires no baking.
- Perfect for Gatherings: It’s beautiful, easy to serve, and great for feeding a crowd.
- Light and Creamy: The layers of cake, pudding, and whipped topping make for a light, fluffy dessert that’s not too heavy.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors by using different pie fillings or pudding flavors.
Main Ingredients for Heaven On Earth Cake
- Angel Food Cake – The light, airy cake base soaks up the pudding and whipped topping, becoming soft and moist.
- Vanilla Pudding – Adds creaminess and sweetness to the layers.
- Cherry Pie Filling – Provides a tart contrast to the sweet, creamy layers.
- Whipped Topping – Lightens the dessert and adds a fluffy finish.
- Almond Extract – Adds a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the vanilla pudding.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Heaven On Earth Cake Recipe
Here’s how to make this easy and delicious dessert step by step:
- Prepare the Cake Layer: Cut 1 store-bought angel food cake into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
- Tip: You can also use a homemade angel food cake or any light sponge cake if you prefer.
- Make the Pudding Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 packages of instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each) with 3 cups of cold milk and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Whisk until the pudding thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pro Tip: For a twist, try using French vanilla or white chocolate pudding for a slightly different flavor.
- Layer the Cake and Pudding: In a 9×13-inch glass dish or trifle dish, arrange half of the angel food cake cubes in an even layer. Spread half of the cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz) over the cake cubes, then pour half of the pudding mixture over the cherries. Repeat the layers with the remaining cake cubes, cherry pie filling, and pudding.
- Tip: You can substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie filling for different flavor variations.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Gently spread an 8 oz tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip) over the top layer of pudding, smoothing it out evenly.
- Pro Tip: For a homemade touch, you can whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and use this in place of the store-bought whipped topping.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to soften.
- Pro Tip: Overnight chilling makes the cake even more flavorful as the cake absorbs the pudding and cherry juices.
- Serve: Once the cake is fully chilled, slice and serve cold. Garnish with a drizzle of cherry sauce, fresh cherries, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for extra texture.
- Serving Idea: This dessert is perfect on its own, but you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an even more indulgent treat.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make it Chocolate: Use chocolate pudding and top with chocolate shavings for a rich chocolate version of this cake.
- Add Layers: For extra flavor, add layers of crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts between the cake and pudding layers.
- How to Store: Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- How to Freeze: This cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Health Benefits of Heaven On Earth Cake
While this dessert is certainly indulgent, using angel food cake makes it a lighter option compared to other cakes. Angel food cake is naturally low in fat, and you can control the amount of sugar by using sugar-free pudding or whipped topping if desired. The cherries add a source of antioxidants, making this dessert a sweet treat with a little added benefit.
- Low in Fat: Angel food cake is naturally low in fat, making this dessert lighter than traditional cakes.
- Antioxidant-Rich Cherries: The cherries in the pie filling provide antioxidants, which help support overall health.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: You can reduce sugar by using sugar-free pudding or whipped topping.
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