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Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 3 reviews

Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring airy angel food cake chunks, luscious cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding blended with sour cream, and light Cool Whip. Finished with optional almond slices, this refreshing dessert requires minimal effort and is perfect served chilled after a long refrigeration for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Base Layers

  • 14 ounces prepared angel food cake
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Pudding Mixture

  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1½ cups whole milk (half & half can also be used)
  • 1 cup sour cream

Topping

  • 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cut the Angel Food Cake: Using a serrated knife, cut the angel food cake into 1-inch square chunks for easy layering and uniform texture throughout the dessert.
  2. Layer the Cake and Cherry Filling: In a deep dish 8x8 square baking dish, evenly layer half of the angel food cake chunks. Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the cake chunks. Then add the remaining angel food cake chunks evenly on top. If a deep dish 8x8 pan is unavailable, a regular 9x9 pan works as an alternative.
  3. Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk, and sour cream. Whisk for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Let it rest for a few minutes if needed to thicken further.
  4. Assemble the Layers: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top layer of angel food cake. Then spread the thawed Cool Whip over the pudding layer. Dollop the remaining cherry pie filling on top of the Cool Whip and use a toothpick or spoon to gently swirl it into a decorative pattern.
  5. Chill the Cake: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, foil, or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, but ideally overnight (12-16 hours), allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the optional sliced almonds over the top for a pleasant crunch and a lovely finishing touch.

Notes

  • The use of sour cream in the pudding mixture helps the pudding thicken quickly and adds a tangy flavor.
  • If you prefer a lighter texture, half & half can substitute whole milk for a richer pudding layer.
  • Swirling the cherry pie filling on top creates an attractive visual effect but can be omitted if desired.
  • Refrigeration time is key for the cake to set properly and blend flavors—overnight chilling is recommended.
  • Sliced almonds add crunchy texture and enhance presentation but can be omitted or substituted with other nuts as preferred.