There’s something about cherry desserts that instantly brings back comfort, and this recipe heaven on earth cake is no exception. Light, creamy, and layered with sweet cherry pie filling and pudding, it’s the kind of no-bake dessert that impresses without the fuss. In this article, I’ll walk you through why it’s called “Heaven on Earth,” what makes it so special, and exactly how to make it for your next gathering, birthday, or just because. If you love layered desserts that chill to perfection, you’re in for a real treat.
A Sweet Memory That Tastes Like Heaven
What makes this dessert so heavenly
The first time I made this heaven on earth cake, it was for a potluck at our local church. I remember being short on time and ingredients but wanting something light, fruity, and creamy to share. That’s when I stumbled on this recipe and let me tell you, it was gone before the rest of the table was filled.
What makes this cake so heavenly? It starts with cubes of soft, store-bought angel food cake layered in a dish. Then comes a silky vanilla pudding mixed with sour cream for tang, followed by luscious cherry pie filling. The finishing touch is a cloud of whipped topping spread over everything. Once it chills, the layers meld into one spoonable slice of joy.
It’s that perfect mix of creamy, fluffy, fruity, and sweet that keeps people coming back for seconds. Unlike heavier baked cakes, this dessert feels cool and refreshing perfect for summer get-togethers or after a big meal.
Why we call it “Heaven on Earth” cake
The name fits. One bite and you’ll get it. The combination of angel food cake (literally from the heavens), soft vanilla cream, and vibrant cherries makes each forkful feel indulgent yet light. It’s also incredibly easy to put together no mixer, no baking, no stress. Just a few store-bought staples layered in a dish and chilled until magic happens.
If you’re a fan of chilled trifles or pudding-layered cakes, this one will feel instantly familiar but the cherry topping and tangy cream layer take it to another level. For more light and creamy crowd-pleasers, don’t miss our banana pudding cheesecake or this gluten-free strawberry cake that’s just as moist and flavorful.
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Recipe Heaven on Earth Cake – Light, Luscious & Layered Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes + 4 hrs chill
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Heaven on Earth cake is a no-bake layered dessert made with angel food cake, vanilla pudding, cherry pie filling, sour cream, and whipped topping.
Ingredients
1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 cup sour cream
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
Optional: extra cherries or nuts for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thick.
2. Fold in sour cream until smooth.
3. Layer half of the angel food cake cubes into a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Spread half of the pudding mixture over the cake.
5. Spoon about 3/4 of the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.
6. Repeat layers with remaining cake cubes and pudding.
7. Top with whipped topping, spreading evenly.
8. Dollop or swirl remaining cherry pie filling on top.
9. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
You can use blueberry or peach pie filling as a substitute.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Great for potlucks, picnics, and make-ahead desserts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: recipe heaven on earth cake, no bake cherry cake, layered dessert
Ingredients That Make It Divine
What’s in a Heaven on Earth cake?
This recipe heaven on earth cake comes together with just a few familiar ingredients, most of which you can grab at any grocery store. What I love most is that it looks and tastes like a fancy dessert, but the ingredient list is short and budget-friendly. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Angel food cake – Store-bought or homemade, cut into cubes. Its light, airy texture is the perfect base.
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Vanilla pudding mix – Instant vanilla pudding gives the cake its creamy layer.
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Milk – To mix with the pudding. Whole milk works best for richness.
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Sour cream – Adds tang and thickness to the pudding layer.
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Cherry pie filling – Adds bright color, sweet-tart flavor, and moisture.
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Whipped topping – The fluffy final layer that ties it all together.
Each component brings its own texture and flavor. The sponge soaks up moisture from the pudding and cherries, while the sour cream and whipped topping keep it light and balanced. Once chilled, the layers become almost cake-like in consistency but without ever turning on your oven.
Choosing the right cake, pudding & fruit combos
You don’t have to stick to the classic cherry version. This dessert is super customizable. If you’re not a cherry fan, swap the pie filling with blueberry, raspberry, or even peach. Love chocolate? Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla and add mini chocolate chips between layers.
Prefer a homemade touch? You can bake your own angel food cake or use leftover sponge or pound cake. Just make sure the texture is sturdy enough to hold up under the pudding and topping.
Building Your Heaven on Earth Cake Step by Step
How to layer the dessert perfectly
Assembling this recipe heaven on earth cake is just as satisfying as eating it. There’s something incredibly comforting about layering sweet, creamy, and fluffy textures in one dish and watching them come together. Here’s how to do it right:
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Prepare the pudding mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and cold milk until thick. Then gently fold in the sour cream until smooth and creamy. This will give you that luscious, tangy pudding layer. -
Layer the cake cubes
Place half of the cubed angel food cake in the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Try to spread it evenly so every bite has cake. -
Add half the pudding mixture
Spoon half of the vanilla pudding mixture over the cake cubes, gently spreading it to the edges. -
Spoon on cherry pie filling
Spread about ¾ of the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every inch it will spread as it sets. -
Repeat layers
Add the remaining cake cubes, then the rest of the pudding mixture. Smooth it out for a clean top layer. -
Top with whipped topping
Spread the whipped topping evenly over everything, making soft swirls if you like a decorative finish. -
Garnish (optional)
Dollop the remaining cherry pie filling on top or swirl it into the whipped topping for a marbled effect. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or white chocolate shavings if desired.
Tips for setting, chilling & slicing
For best results, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. The longer it chills, the more the flavors meld and the layers firm up, giving you that perfect scoopable texture.
To slice clean pieces, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. Serve with a big spoon or spatula and let the layers do the talking.
Want a visually similar dessert with that same chilled appeal? Try our cherry cheesecake recipe for something timeless, or this chocolate eclair cake with homemade icing for a nostalgic favorite.
Serve It, Store It, Switch It Up
Best ways to serve Heaven on Earth cake
This recipe heaven on earth cake is made to be shared. It’s ideal for potlucks, birthdays, BBQs, or when you just want to treat your family to something sweet without heating up the oven. Once chilled, this dessert is best served cold, straight from the fridge. Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop generous portions into bowls or onto dessert plates.
Because it’s a soft, creamy dessert, you don’t need any fancy garnishes just a dollop of extra whipped topping or a fresh cherry on top if you’re feeling festive. You can also serve it in individual jars or clear cups if you’re planning ahead for a party perfect for grab-and-go portions that look as good as they taste.
Easy variations & smart storage tips
One of the reasons this cake is so popular is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to try:
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Fruit swaps: Try blueberry, raspberry, or peach pie filling instead of cherry.
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Cake swaps: Not a fan of angel food? Use pound cake, yellow cake, or sponge cake.
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Flavor twists: Swap vanilla pudding for lemon or white chocolate. Add almond extract to the whipped topping for extra depth.
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Make it chocolatey: Use chocolate pudding and drizzle fudge sauce between the layers.
This dessert stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap. In fact, it gets even better as it sits just don’t freeze it, as the whipped topping and pudding can separate once thawed.
Whether you make it for a celebration or a simple after-dinner treat, this no-bake wonder will have everyone asking for the recipe. And now you’ll know exactly how to make it again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Heaven on Earth cake?
Because every bite feels light, sweet, and indulgent like a cross between cherry trifle and creamy pudding cake. It’s layered with angel food cake, pudding, cherries, and whipped topping for a dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Can I use a different cake for Heaven on Earth cake?
Yes! While angel food cake is traditional, pound cake, sponge cake, or even yellow cake can work. Just make sure it’s light enough to absorb the pudding and flavors without getting soggy.
How long does Heaven on Earth cake need to chill?
Ideally, at least 4 hours but overnight is best. Chilling helps the layers firm up and allows the flavors to meld together into that signature soft, scoopable texture.
Can I make Heaven on Earth cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or potlucks. Prepare it the night before and let it chill covered in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3–4 days.
This recipe heaven on earth cake is everything a great dessert should be light, creamy, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. With its fluffy cake cubes, silky pudding, tangy cream, and fruity topping, it’s a no-bake dream that works for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or just to satisfy a cherry craving, it’s the kind of treat that disappears fast and earns compliments every time. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to “wow” dessert.