Introduction

Heaven on Earth Cake is a light and delightful layered dessert combining airy angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and sweet cherry pie filling. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for any occasion when you want a crowd-pleasing treat without fuss.

A square piece of cake on a white plate with a white marbled surface. The cake has three main layers: the bottom layer is light yellow sponge cake with a soft texture, above it is a thick layer of bright red fruit jam with a glossy look, topped by a thick white creamy layer with a fluffy texture. The top layer is another light yellow sponge cake dusted heavily with white powdered sugar, and a shiny red cherry sits in the center on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large angel food cake (cubed into bite-sized pieces)
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (any brand works)
2 cups whole milk (cold or room temperature)
2 cups Cool Whip (divided; one portion for layers, one for topping)
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (substitute blueberry or strawberry if desired)
Fresh cherries (optional garnish)
Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Cube the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces, setting them aside.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the milk until it thickens.
Step 3: Gently fold in half of the Cool Whip into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: In a serving dish, layer half of the angel food cake cubes evenly.
Step 5: Pour half of the pudding and Cool Whip mixture over the cake layer.
Step 6: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pudding layer.
Step 7: Add the remaining angel food cake cubes on top, then spread the rest of the pudding mixture over them.
Step 8: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to soften.
Step 9: Before serving, spread the remaining Cool Whip over the chilled dessert.
Step 10: Garnish with fresh cherries and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract to the pudding mixture.
Substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry for a different fruity twist.
Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
Allow the dessert to chill overnight for even more developed flavors and a softer texture.

Storage

Store Heaven on Earth Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. When ready to serve again, simply spread a fresh layer of whipped topping if desired. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture of the pudding and whipped cream layers.

How to Serve

A white square piece of layered dessert on a white plate with a white marbled background. The bottom layer is a soft cake soaked with bright red cherry juice, topped with whole red cherries and a light fluffy white cream layer. On top of the cream layer, there is a thin pale yellow custard layer, followed by another thick layer of white whipped cream. The dessert is decorated with whole red cherries and a few sliced almonds scattered on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal to prepare this cake several hours or overnight before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and the cake to soak up the pudding for the best texture.

Can I use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with low-fat or dairy-free milk, but the pudding may be slightly less creamy. For dairy-free, ensure all other ingredients are compatible with your dietary needs.