Heaven on Earth Cake – A Light and Creamy No-Bake Dessert

If you’re looking for a simple yet irresistible dessert, this Heaven on Earth Cake is exactly what you need! It’s a no-bake, layered dessert made with fluffy angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, rich cream cheese, sweet cherry pie filling, and whipped topping—all coming together for a treat that truly melts in your mouth.

This dessert is light, airy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It requires minimal prep and just a few hours of chilling before it’s ready to serve!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ No-Bake & Easy to Make – No need to turn on the oven!
✔ Light & Fluffy – The perfect balance of creamy and airy textures.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better when chilled overnight!

Ready to make this heavenly dessert? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

This no-fuss dessert comes together with simple, store-bought ingredients that make layering a breeze.

You’ll Need:

• 1 package angel food cake (or 1 prepared angel food cake), cut into cubes – The soft, fluffy base of the dessert.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix – Adds a rich, creamy layer.
• 1 ½ cups milk – Used to mix the pudding.
• 1 cup sour cream – Gives the pudding an extra creamy texture.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – Adds a smooth and slightly tangy flavor.
• ½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – The perfect fruity layer.
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip) – For a light and fluffy topping.
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or white chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish) – Adds a little crunch and elegance.

Step 2: Prepare the Angel Food Cake

Before we start assembling the cake, we need to prepare the base.

1. Cut the Cake into Cubes

• If using store-bought or homemade angel food cake, cut it into bite-sized cubes using a serrated knife.
• Set the cubes aside while you prepare the pudding and cream cheese layers.

✅ Pro Tip: Angel food cake is naturally light and airy, making it perfect for soaking up the creamy layers without becoming soggy.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Pudding Mixture

This pudding layer adds silky smoothness and enhances the overall creamy texture of the dessert.

1. Mix the Pudding Ingredients

• In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
  ✔ 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  ✔ 1 ½ cups milk
  ✔ 1 cup sour cream
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
• Let it sit for a few minutes to set while you prepare the next layer.

✅ Pro Tip: Adding sour cream makes the pudding extra creamy and adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

Now that the pudding mixture is ready, it’s time to prepare the rich and creamy cream cheese layer. This layer adds a smooth, slightly tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pudding and cherry filling.

1. Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, add:
  ✔ 8 oz softened cream cheese
  ✔ ½ cup powdered sugar
  ✔ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s smooth, light, and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

✅ Pro Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps. If needed, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before using.

2. Fold in Whipped Topping

• Gently fold in half (about 4 oz) of the whipped topping using a rubber spatula.
• Mix just until combined—this helps keep the mixture light and airy.

✅ Pro Tip: Folding instead of mixing helps retain the fluffiness of the whipped topping, giving the dessert a light and creamy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Heaven on Earth Cake

Now comes the fun part—layering all the delicious ingredients!

1. Layer the Angel Food Cake

• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cubed angel food cake evenly across the bottom.

2. Add the Cream Cheese Mixture

• Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the cake cubes.
• Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

3. Spread the Cherry Pie Filling

• Pour half of the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
• Gently spread it with the back of a spoon.

4. Repeat the Layers

• Add the remaining angel food cake cubes, followed by the rest of the cream cheese mixture, and then the rest of the cherry pie filling.

Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping

1. Spread the Remaining Whipped Topping

• Use a spatula to spread the remaining whipped topping (Cool Whip) evenly over the top of the cake.

2. Add Garnishes (Optional, But Delicious!)

• Sprinkle with sliced almonds or white chocolate shavings for extra crunch and elegance.

✅ Pro Tip: Garnishes add texture and visual appeal, making the dessert even more irresistible!

Step 7: Chill the Cake

1. Cover & Refrigerate

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for the flavors to fully meld together.

✅ Pro Tip: Chilling allows the cake to soak up all the flavors, making it even more delicious and creamy.

Part 3: Pro Tips, FAQs, and Final Thoughts

Your Heaven on Earth Cake has been chilling and soaking up all those incredible flavors, making it even more delicious with every passing hour! Before you serve this creamy, dreamy dessert, let’s go over some expert tips, common questions, and creative variations to make it even better.

Pro Tips for the Best Heaven on Earth Cake

1. Use a Serrated Knife for Cutting Angel Food Cake

• Angel food cake is delicate and airy, so using a serrated knife helps prevent squishing it while cutting.
• If you don’t have a serrated knife, use a bread knife or pull-apart method to tear the cake into chunks.

2. Chill Overnight for Maximum Flavor

• While 4 hours of chilling is the minimum, letting it sit overnight allows the cake to absorb the pudding and cream cheese mixture, making every bite even better!

3. Switch Up the Fruit for a Fun Twist

• While cherry pie filling is a classic, you can swap it for:
  ✔ Blueberry pie filling – A delicious berry alternative.
  ✔ Strawberry pie filling – A fresh, summery flavor.
  ✔ Raspberry preserves – A tangy, slightly tart option.

4. Use Homemade Whipped Cream for an Extra Special Touch

• If you want to skip Cool Whip, make your own by whipping:
  ✔ 1 cup heavy cream
  ✔ 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  ✔ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whip on high speed until soft peaks form, then use as directed.

FAQ: Answering Your Heaven on Earth Cake Questions

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes even better the next day. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge.

2. How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftovers in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days—but it’s so delicious, it probably won’t last that long!

3. Can I freeze Heaven on Earth Cake?

• While it’s possible, the texture may change after thawing due to the whipped topping and pudding.
• If freezing, wrap the cake tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

4. Can I make this with a different type of cake?

Absolutely! Instead of angel food cake, try:
✔ Pound cake – For a denser, buttery texture.
✔ Vanilla sponge cake – A slightly richer alternative.
✔ Lemon cake – For a refreshing citrus twist.

5. What can I serve with this dessert?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
• A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream.
• A sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra crunch.

Final Thoughts: Try This Heavenly Dessert Today!

This Heaven on Earth Cake is the ultimate easy, no-bake dessert—perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holidays, or whenever you need a light and creamy sweet treat. With its fluffy angel food cake, velvety pudding, rich cream cheese layer, and bursts of cherry flavor, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!

Now it’s your turn! Did you try this recipe? Maybe you added your own twist with different flavors or toppings? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how yours turned out!

And if you love simple, no-bake desserts, be sure to check out my other quick and delicious recipes—because homemade treats should always be this easy and satisfying!

Happy baking! 😊

Print