Name: Heaven On Earth Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 oz angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes; 21 oz cherry pie filling; 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix; 1½ cups whole milk; 1 cup sour cream; 8 oz whipped topping (e.g. Cool Whip), thawed; ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional garnish)

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A delightfully light, no-bake dessert featuring layers of airy cake, creamy pudding, juicy fruit filling and a cool whipped topping—an ideal treat for potlucks or summer evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers:

Convenient assembly with minimal baking—an easy fridge dessert that impresses.
A wonderful balance of textures: soft cake cubes, creamy vanilla-pudding layer, fruity pie filling and whipped topping.
Flexibility in fruit choices and variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
The ability to make it ahead of time—perfect for hosting or meal-prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

14 oz (≈ 400 g) prepared angel food cake, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
21 oz (≈ 600 g) canned cherry pie filling
3.4 oz (≈ 96 g) box instant vanilla pudding mix
1 ½ cups (360 ml) whole milk
1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
8 oz (≈ 227 g) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
¼ cup (≈ 30 g) sliced almonds (optional garnish)

Directions

Using a serrated knife, cut the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes.
In an 8×8-inch (or 9×9-inch) deep dish baking pan, evenly layer half of the cake cubes across the bottom.
Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the layer of cake cubes.
Add the remaining cake cubes in an even layer on top of the pie filling.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, whole milk and sour cream until smooth and thickened (about 1-3 minutes).
Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake layer.
Spread the whipped topping in an even layer over the pudding layer.
Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling over the whipped topping and gently swirl it in if desired.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (overnight if possible) to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Just before serving, sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top (if using) and slice into portions.

Servings and timing

Makes about 8 servings.
Preparation: ~15 minutes
Chill time: Minimum 8 hours (recommend overnight for best texture)
Total time: ~8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use strawberry, blueberry or peach pie filling instead of cherry for a different fruit flavor.
Swap angel food cake for cubed pound cake or sponge cake for a richer base.
Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if preferred.
Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to the pudding mixture for a nutty twist.
Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or chopped walnuts instead of almonds.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Because it’s a chilled dessert, reheating is not applicable—serve cold or slightly chilled.
If the whipped topping begins to weep or the cake gets too soft, give it a gentle stir before serving and optionally add fresh whipped cream on top.

FAQs

What is Heaven On Earth Cake?

It’s a no-bake layered dessert comprised of cubed angel food cake, fruit pie filling, an instant pudding-sour cream mixture and whipped topping—chilled until set and served cold.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes—making it the night before (letting it chill 12-16 hours) allows the flavors to meld and the texture to improve.

Can I use homemade cake instead of store-bought angel food cake?

Yes—if you prefer to bake your own angel food or another light sponge cake, make sure it’s fully cooled and then cube it before layering.

What fruit pie fillings work best?

Cherry, strawberry, blueberry, peach or mixed berry pie fillings all work beautifully. Pick based on season or preference.

Can I make it without sour cream?

Yes—plain Greek yogurt is a common substitute, though sour cream gives a slightly richer texture and tang.

Is this dessert suitable for potlucks or gatherings?

Definitely—it’s easy to transport, serve cold, and can be cut into squares for sharing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—just choose a larger baking dish (for example 9×13-inch) and double each ingredient accordingly.

What if the cake becomes too soggy after chilling?

If it becomes overly soft, reduce chilling time next time or use slightly firmer cake base (e.g., pound cake). You can also chill uncovered late in the process to allow slight setting.

Can I serve this frozen?

It’s best served cold but still creamy—not fully frozen. Freezing may change texture of whipped topping and fruit layers.

Can I make it dairy-free or halal-friendly?

Yes—use a dairy-free whipped topping, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt, and ensure all other ingredients comply with halal dietary requirements.

Conclusion

This Heaven On Earth Cake is the perfect combination of ease and elegance—no oven required, yet layered with flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a make-ahead dessert to enjoy at home, this recipe delivers delight. With a few simple ingredients and a little refrigeration time, you’ll be ready to serve a dessert that truly lives up to its name.