If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both heavenly and effortless, the Heaven On Earth Cake is just what you need. This crowd-pleasing, no-bake cake combines layers of soft, airy angel food cake with a creamy vanilla pudding mixture, a swirl of tangy cherry pie filling, and a fluffy layer of whipped topping. It’s a refrigerated dessert that comes together quickly and only gets better the longer it chills.

This recipe is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, holidays, or potlucks where you want to wow guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet, creamy, and tart flavors with the lightness of the angel food cake creates a refreshing contrast that makes every bite irresistible. The addition of sour cream to the pudding mix adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.

The beauty of this cake is in its simplicity—it’s made with store-bought ingredients but tastes like something you’d get from a bakery. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is foolproof. It’s also versatile enough to switch up with different pie fillings or flavored puddings depending on your mood or the season.

Once you try it, Heaven On Earth Cake is bound to become a repeat favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No baking required

This is a chilled, no-bake dessert that saves you time and effort while still delivering delicious results.

2. Crowd-pleasing flavor

The balance of fluffy angel food cake, sweet cherry filling, and creamy vanilla pudding is a combination everyone loves.

3. Quick and easy assembly

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can put this dessert together in under 20 minutes.

4. Perfect for parties

This dessert feeds a crowd and looks beautiful when sliced and served in a glass dish or trifle bowl.

5. Customizable

You can easily adapt the ingredients—use different pie fillings, flavored puddings, or even low-fat options for a lighter version.

Ingredients

Angel food cake
Instant vanilla pudding
Milk
Sour cream
Cherry pie filling
Cool Whip (whipped topping)

Variations

Berry Swap: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry pie filling for a different fruity twist.
Chocolate Heaven: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer, decadent version.
Tropical Flair: Replace cherry filling with crushed pineapple and use coconut cream pudding.
Lemon Delight: Use lemon pie filling and lemon pudding for a citrusy version.
Low-Sugar Option: Choose sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping for a lighter version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cut the prepared angel food cake into 1-inch cubes and layer half of them in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and milk until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 3

Add the sour cream to the pudding mixture and blend until completely smooth and combined.

Step 4

Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the cubed cake layer in the dish.

Step 5

Pour the pudding and sour cream mixture evenly over the cherry and cake layer.

Step 6

Top with the remaining cake cubes, then spread the remaining cherry pie filling over the top.

Step 7

Finish with a thick layer of thawed Cool Whip spread evenly over everything.

Step 8

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to blend and the dessert to set.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the cake for several hours before serving to let the layers firm up and flavors meld.
Use a serrated knife to cut the angel food cake for clean, neat cubes.
A glass dish or trifle bowl showcases the beautiful layers of this dessert.
Use full-fat sour cream and milk for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
Garnish with extra cherries or grated white chocolate for a decorative touch before serving.

How to Serve

This dessert is best served chilled straight from the fridge. Slice into squares or scoop with a large serving spoon into individual bowls. It’s beautiful enough for special occasions but simple enough for a weekend treat. Serve with a side of fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The texture may soften slightly over time but will still taste delicious.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dessert, the texture of the whipped topping and pudding may change upon thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap tightly and consume within one month.

Reheating

This is a chilled dessert and should not be reheated. Always serve cold for best results.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade angel food cake?

Yes, homemade angel food cake works beautifully and adds a personal touch.

2. Can I make this a day ahead?

Absolutely—making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop and the texture to set properly.

3. What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or plain yogurt as a substitute for sour cream.

4. Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free whipped topping, and a dairy-free pudding mix.

5. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll want to cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a similar consistency.

6. What kind of dish should I use?

A glass 9×13-inch baking dish works best to show off the layers.

7. How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger dish or make two separate batches.

9. Will it hold up at a potluck?

Yes, as long as it stays chilled. Consider placing it in a cooler or on ice if serving outdoors.

10. Can I add nuts or coconut?

Yes, toasted almonds, shredded coconut, or even mini white chocolate chips make great toppings.

Conclusion

Heaven On Earth Cake is an irresistibly light and flavorful dessert that combines ease with elegance. With layers of angel food cake, creamy pudding, sweet cherry pie filling, and whipped topping, it’s the perfect no-bake treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal, attending a potluck, or just want a sweet indulgence to keep in the fridge, this cake delivers every time. Try a variation or stick to the classic—you really can’t go wrong.