Heaven on Earth Cake

Category: Irresistible Desserts

This delightful treat features cubes of fluffy angel food cake layered with tangy cheesecake pudding, swirls of cherry pie filling, and a generous blanket of whipped topping. The cake soaks up the luscious pudding and cherries, resulting in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Finished with crunchy roasted almonds for a subtle nutty contrast, this chilled dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Each bite offers a refreshing balance of light cake, fruit, and cream, making it an irresistibly satisfying finale to any meal.

Ranah
Updated on Fri, 11 Jul 2025 00:49:46 GMT
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Heaven on Earth Cake is my go to dessert when I want something that wows a crowd but comes together in minutes. Each bite is a perfect mix of fluffy cake creamy cheesecake layers bright cherry filling and clouds of whipped topping. It is that dreamy refreshing treat you will reach for on any spring or summer table.

The first time I made this my husband could not believe it was not from a fancy bakery. Now he requests it for every birthday and our family always asks for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Angel food cake: choose fresh or a good quality store bought one for the airiest texture
  • Instant cheesecake pudding mix: creates the rich cheesecake flavor without extra steps
  • Milk: gives the pudding mixture just the right creamy body whole milk adds a bit more richness
  • Sour cream: adds creaminess and a hint of tang Greek yogurt works for a lighter version
  • Vanilla extract: pick pure vanilla for a deeper rounded flavor
  • Cherry pie filling: look for bright whole cherries and not just syrup
  • Cool Whip or whipped topping: adds that cloud like finish store brands work fine
  • Roasted almond slices: add subtle crunch and a nutty note totally optional but worth it

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Angel Food Cake:
Cut the cake into one inch cubes. Toss them gently to keep the texture light as this will help the cubes soak up the pudding and fruit layers.
Make the Cheesecake Pudding Mixture:
In a mixing bowl blend the pudding mix milk sour cream and vanilla with a whisk. Mix until smooth and creamy with no lumps left.
Layer the Cake and Cherry Filling:
Scatter half of the cake cubes across a large baking dish making sure to cover the bottom. Evenly spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the top getting cherries and syrup into every corner.
Repeat Layers:
Add the remaining cake cubes on top of the cherry layer then finish with the rest of the cherry filing spread out evenly.
Add Pudding and Cool Whip:
Pour the cheesecake pudding mixture over everything letting it sink into all the spaces. Dollop the Cool Whip on top and gently smooth to cover the entire cake.
Chill:
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours. This step lets the cake absorb all those wonderful layers and flavors.
Garnish and Serve:
Right before serving sprinkle with roasted almond slices if using for a touch of crunch and a pretty finish.
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Cherry pie filling is my favorite part as it gives each layer a burst of sweet tart flavor. My mom always made this for summer parties and I remember sneaking extra cherries whenever I helped her in the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The cake continues to meld with the pudding getting even more luscious by day two.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try low fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter result. Blueberry or strawberry pie filling swaps in for cherries with great success. If you can not find angel food cake pound cake works but the dessert will be richer and denser.

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Serving Suggestions

Scoop a generous square into a dessert dish and top with extra fruit or a maraschino cherry. This is perfect for baby showers and summer BBQs served cold straight from the fridge.

Cultural and Historical Context

This cake fits into the family of fun American "dump" or "layer" cakes which became popular when convenience ingredients like instant pudding and canned fruit became staples. It is a nostalgic crowd pleaser that is all about sharing with friends.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade angel food cake?

Absolutely! Homemade angel food cake can be used for a fresher flavor and fluffier texture. Just be sure it's completely cooled before cubing.

→ Is it possible to substitute the cherry filling?

Yes, you can swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berries depending on your preference.

→ What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative, adding similar richness with a lighter taste.

→ How long should this dessert chill before serving?

It should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling helps the flavors blend and the texture set better.

→ Are the roasted almond slices necessary?

The roasted almonds add a lovely crunch and flavor, but can be omitted for allergies or personal taste.

→ Can this dessert be prepared in advance?

Yes, preparing it a day ahead allows the layers to meld perfectly and simplifies serving on event day.

Heaven on Earth Cake

Layers of angel food cake, rich pudding, lush cherries, and a cloud of whipped topping. A summer favorite.

Prep Time
20 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
20 min
By: Seham


Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine Style: American

Output: 12 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Cake Base and Layers

01 1 prepared angel food cake, approximately 10 inches in diameter, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 1 pack (30 oz) cherry pie filling

→ Cheesecake Pudding Mixture

03 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
04 1 1/2 cups whole or 2% milk
05 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
06 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Topping

07 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping such as Cool Whip
08 1 tablespoon roasted almond slices, optional, for garnish

Steps

Step 01

Cut the angel food cake into roughly 1-inch cubes and set aside in a large bowl.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mix, milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 03

In a 13×9 inch baking dish, place half of the angel food cake cubes evenly across the bottom. Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the cake cubes, spreading the cherries and syrup evenly.

Step 04

Add the remaining angel food cake cubes on top of the first layer, then spoon the rest of the cherry pie filling evenly on top.

Step 05

Pour the prepared cheesecake pudding mixture over the layers of cake and cherries, ensuring it seeps into all the crevices. Spoon the whipped topping over the pudding and gently spread for a smooth finish.

Step 06

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to meld.

Step 07

Before serving, sprinkle roasted almond slices over the top for added texture and presentation.

Notes and Tips

  1. Ensure the dessert is well-chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Required Tools

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • 13×9 inch baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Plastic wrap for refrigeration

Allergy Information

Double-check all ingredients for allergen risks, and consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains dairy from milk, sour cream, and whipped topping.
  • Contains nuts if garnished with almond slices.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This data is for informational purposes and should not replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 275
  • Fats: 8.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45.3 g
  • Proteins: 4.2 g