Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert. It combines the classic flavors of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, and creamy vanilla pudding. This decadent treat is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and any occasion when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make dessert.
Key Takeaways
- No-bake dessert featuring angel food cake, cherry pie filling, and vanilla pudding
- Easy to prepare with just 15 minutes of active time and 4 hours of chilling
- Serves 10 people and is perfect for summer celebrations and gatherings
- Nutritious with 334 calories, 55g carbohydrates, 5g protein, and 11g fat per serving
- Customizable with various topping and filling options to suit personal preferences
What is Heaven on Earth Cake
Origin and Description
Heaven on Earth Cake is a sweet treat that mixes angel food cake, cherry pie filling, and vanilla pudding. It’s a layered cake that looks and tastes divine. This dessert is known for its heavenly taste and beautiful layers.
Why It’s Called Heaven on Earth
The name “Heaven on Earth Cake” captures the essence of this indulgent dessert. It’s like a cherry trifle but made in a baking dish. It’s perfect for hot summer days because it’s easy to make and refreshing.
The cake’s layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, and vanilla pudding are a perfect mix. The light cake, sweet cherries, and creamy pudding make it a treat for the senses. It’s a true indulgence.
“Heaven on Earth Cake is a dessert that transports you to a realm of pure bliss with every bite.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel food cake | 10 ounces |
| Cherry pie filling | 21 ounces |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 3.4 ounces |
| Milk | 1⅔ cups |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Whipped topping | 8 ounces |
| Roasted almond slices (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Essential Ingredients for Heaven on Earth Cake
To make the Heaven on Earth Cake, you need a special list of ingredients. The cake starts with a fluffy angel food cake base. Then, a 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling adds a burst of flavor. You’ll also need a 3.5-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding, 1.5 cups of 2% milk, 1 cup of sour cream, and an 8-ounce tub of Cool Whip.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds on top. You can also try different pie fillings, cakes, or puddings to make it your own.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel food cake | 1 pre-made or boxed |
| Cherry pie filling | 21 ounces (1 can) |
| Instant vanilla pudding | 3.5 ounces (1 package) |
| Milk | 1.5 cups (2% milk) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Cool Whip | 8 ounces (1 tub) |
| Sliced almonds (optional) | As desired |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a dessert that will wow everyone.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the Heaven on Earth Cake, you’ll need some key tools. A 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for this dessert. A serrated knife is also crucial for cutting the cake into 1-inch cubes easily.
Recommended Baking Dishes
A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. It ensures the cake bakes evenly and has enough room for layers. If you want a show-stopping dessert, consider using a trifle bowl. It highlights the cake, pudding, and whipped cream layers beautifully.
Special Utensils for Perfect Results
You’ll also need a medium mixing bowl and an electric mixer for the pudding. These tools help mix everything perfectly. A trifle bowl can make your cake look even more stunning, showing off its layers.
| Kitchen Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Provides the perfect vessel for baking the cake and assembling the layers |
| Serrated Knife | Slices the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes with precision |
| Mixing Bowl | Allows for thorough mixing of the pudding ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Ensures the pudding mixture is smooth and well-combined |
| Trifle Bowl (optional) | Provides an impressive presentation for the layered dessert |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the Heaven on Earth Cake is a fun no-bake process. Start by cutting the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes. Use a serrated knife for a clean cut. Place half of the cake pieces at the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish or an 8×8 deep-dish pan.
Then, spread 2/3 of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer. Make sure it’s evenly distributed. Place the remaining cake cubes on top, creating the second layer.
In a separate bowl, mix the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth. Spread this pudding layer over the cake, covering it completely.
- Spread a layer of Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream over the pudding layer.
- Top with the remaining cherry pie filling, creating the final layer.
Refrigerate the Heaven on Earth Cake for 4-5 hours, or overnight. This lets the flavors meld and the layers set. The technique and no-bake dessert assembly make it a delightful treat.
“The key to the perfect Heaven on Earth Cake is patience – letting the layers chill and set before serving ensures a heavenly texture and flavor in every bite.”
Layer Assembly Techniques
Making a Heaven on Earth Cake needs careful layering. Start with evenly layering the cake cubes. This makes a solid base for the fillings and toppings.
Creating the Perfect Base Layer
First, spread half of the angel food cake cubes at the bottom of a dish. Press them down to make a tight, even layer. This prepares the base for the delicious fillings.
Adding Filling and Toppings
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the cake layer, covering it completely.
- Place the remaining cake cubes on top of the pie filling, making a second layer.
- In a bowl, mix the vanilla pudding with cold milk until smooth. Spread this over the cake layers for even coverage.
- Top with a dollop of whipped topping, spreading it evenly for a visually appealing finish.
- Finish with the remaining cherry pie filling on top of the whipped topping, making a stunning dessert.
With these steps, you’ll get a Heaven on Earth Cake that’s both tasty and beautiful.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Angel Food Cake | 10 ounces |
| Strawberry Pie Filling | 21 ounces |
| Vanilla Pudding Mix | 3.4 ounces |
| Whole Milk | 1⅔ cups |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup |
| Whipped Topping | 8 ounces |
Creative Variations and Substitutions
The Heaven on Earth Cake offers endless possibilities for flavor and ingredients. You can be a culinary artist, creating unique desserts. Try different pie fillings and cake bases to make something special.
Experiment with flavor variations. Instead of strawberry or cherry, try lemon, raspberry, or peach. Add nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a twist.
Feel free to substitute ingredients. Use a denser cake like pound cake or chocolate instead of angel food. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and homemade whipped cream can take the place of Cool Whip.
Heaven on Earth Cake is all about personal touch. Let your creativity shine and make a dessert that shows off your style. Whether you prefer classic or something new, the options are limitless.
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Pie Filling | Strawberry, Cherry, Blueberry, Raspberry, Lemon, Peach |
| Cake Base | Angel Food Cake, Pound Cake, Chocolate Cake |
| Pudding Layer | Instant Vanilla Pudding, Greek Yogurt |
| Whipped Topping | Cool Whip, Homemade Whipped Cream |
| Nut Topping | Almonds, Pecans, Walnuts |
| Flavoring | Almond Extract, Vanilla Extract |
“Embrace your creativity and craft a dessert that truly reflects your unique flair.”
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
The Heaven on Earth Cake is perfect for any event. It’s a layered masterpiece that needs chilling to meld flavors and textures. But the wait is worth it.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Chill the cake for 4-5 hours before serving. Or, refrigerate it overnight for the best results. This ensures the cake is firm and ready to be sliced.
Serving Recommendations
- Serve the Heaven on Earth Cake chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Optionally, garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
This dessert is made to be prepared ahead of time. It’s easy to make and always a hit. The chilling time, refrigeration, and make-ahead nature of the Heaven on Earth Cake make it a stress-free and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
Decorating and Presentation Ideas
Make your Heaven on Earth Cake look amazing with simple garnishes and presentation. Sprinkle sliced or slivered almonds on top for a crunchy texture and elegance. Add fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and a refreshing scent.
Serve the cake in a trifle bowl for a stunning presentation. The glass lets everyone see the cake layers, pudding, and whipped topping. Add fresh berries on the side or as a topping for a beautiful and tasty treat.
Try adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a summer twist. The ice cream’s coolness balances the cake’s richness, making it perfect for hot days. These decorating and presentation ideas will make this Southern classic even more special.