Decadent, dreamy, and almost effortless to make, Heaven On Earth Cake lives up to its name with layers of light angel food cake, tart cherries, creamy vanilla pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. This no-bake dessert is a stunning combination of textures and flavors that feels rich yet refreshing—a perfect ending to any meal or a show-stopping contribution to potlucks and holiday tables.
Inspired by classic trifle-style desserts, this cake takes minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Cubed pieces of soft angel food cake soak up the tangy cherry pie filling and silky pudding, while a layer of whipped topping ties everything together with a cloud-like finish. It’s cold, creamy, and incredibly easy to throw together in advance.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to please a crowd or just want something indulgent with minimal effort, this cake is always a hit. Best served chilled and enjoyed slowly, every bite of Heaven On Earth Cake tastes like a little piece of bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Required – A simple, assemble-and-chill dessert.
- Light Yet Indulgent – Creamy and satisfying without feeling too heavy.
- Perfect for a Crowd – Makes a generous batch, great for potlucks and parties.
- Visually Stunning – Layers of color and texture look beautiful in a glass dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Preps in minutes and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients
- Angel food cake (store-bought or homemade)
- Cherry pie filling
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Milk
- Sour cream
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for topping)
Variations
- Berry Twist: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry pie filling.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer dessert.
- Citrus Flavor: Add lemon pudding and lemon curd for a bright, tangy version.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit almonds or replace with coconut flakes for texture.
- Homemade Touch: Use freshly whipped cream and homemade angel food cake if preferred.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth and thickened. Set aside.
Step 2: Cube the Cake
Cut the angel food cake into bite-sized cubes and layer half of them in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
Step 3: Add Cherry Layer
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake layer.
Step 4: Add Pudding
Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture over the cherry layer.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Repeat with the remaining cake cubes, cherry filling, and pudding.
Step 6: Top with Whipped Topping
Spread the whipped topping evenly across the top layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
Step 7: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle with sliced almonds and garnish with maraschino cherries if desired. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use chilled ingredients for faster setting and a firmer texture.
- Let the cake sit overnight for even more flavor development.
- Use a glass dish to show off the beautiful layers.
- Gently spread each layer to avoid mixing them together.
- For a more homemade feel, whip your own cream and flavor your pudding.

How to Serve
- Serve cold, straight from the fridge.
- Scoop into bowls or slice like a traditional cake.
- Top with extra fruit or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel.
- Serve with a hot beverage like coffee or tea.
- Add a mint sprig for an elegant finishing touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The texture will soften over time but remain delicious.
Freezing
Not recommended—freezing may alter the creamy texture and make the cake soggy once thawed.
Reheating
Not applicable. This is a cold dessert and should be served chilled.
FAQs
1. Can I make Heaven On Earth Cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made at least 4 hours ahead and even better if chilled overnight.
2. Can I use homemade angel food cake?
Absolutely—homemade adds an extra special touch.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative.
4. Is it okay to use different pie fillings?
Yes! Blueberry, strawberry, and peach are all delicious options.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free pudding, milk, and whipped topping substitutes to adapt for dairy-free diets.
6. Will the cake get soggy?
It softens but doesn’t get mushy—similar to a trifle. The texture is part of the appeal.
7. Can I make individual servings?
Yes, layer ingredients into cups or jars for a portable version.
8. What can I use instead of whipped topping?
Freshly whipped cream with a little sugar and vanilla is a great alternative.
9. Does it need to be refrigerated?
Yes, always store this dessert in the fridge due to the dairy content.
10. Can I add cream cheese to the pudding layer?
Yes! Blend in softened cream cheese for a richer, cheesecake-like texture.

Conclusion
Heaven On Earth Cake is a no-fuss, no-bake masterpiece that combines convenience with luxurious flavor. With its layers of soft cake, creamy pudding, sweet cherries, and fluffy topping, it’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, this easy recipe is guaranteed to wow. Chill, scoop, and savor every heavenly bite!
Print
Heaven On Earth Cake
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent, dreamy, and effortlessly delicious, Heaven On Earth Cake is a no-bake dessert masterpiece. Featuring layers of fluffy angel food cake, tangy cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and a cloud of whipped topping, this chilled treat is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you crave a crowd-pleasing dessert. Light yet indulgent, it’s a stunning combination of flavor and texture—just like a trifle, but even easier.
Ingredients
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1 angel food cake (store-bought or homemade), cut into cubes
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
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1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
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1 ½ cups cold milk
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1 cup sour cream
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1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
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Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
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Maraschino cherries (optional, for topping)
Instructions
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Prepare pudding mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
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Layer cake: Place half of the angel food cake cubes in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
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Add cherries: Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
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Add pudding layer: Spoon half of the pudding mixture over the cherry filling and spread evenly.
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Repeat layers: Add remaining cake cubes, remaining cherry filling, and then the rest of the pudding mixture.
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Top it off: Spread whipped topping evenly over the top layer.
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Garnish and chill: Sprinkle with sliced almonds and maraschino cherries if using. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
Swap in other pie fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or lemon for a fun twist.
For a richer dessert, blend cream cheese into the pudding mixture.
Use homemade angel food cake or whipped cream for a more homemade touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no-bake dessert, trifle, cherry dessert, angel food cake dessert, summer dessert