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Heaven on Earth Cake

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Treat yourself to the heavenly flavors of this easy-to-make dessert! Layers of moist cake, creamy pudding, and cherry pie filling create a sweet and luscious treat. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. You’ll love how quick and fun it is to whip up this delightful cake.
This recipe is simple and hassle-free, with step-by-step photos and directions to guide you. We’ve included pro tips and tricks for success, plus answers to frequently asked questions to ensure perfect results every time!

MORE RECIPES: Blueberry Angel Food Cake | Lemon Lasagna | Strawberry Cake Roll
Create a show-stopping dessert in just 20 minutes with heaven on earth cake! This no-bake recipe combines fluffy cake layers, creamy pudding, and sweet cherry pie filling for a dessert everyone loves. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners and always gets rave reviews. The irresistible flavors and easy assembly make it a must-try for any occasion!
Just one bite and you might hear angels singing. This cool and creamy dessert only takes 15 minutes to put together. The hardest part will likely be waiting for it to set and chill in the refrigerator.
Don’t consider yourself to be a baker? No worries. This 20-minute cake recipe doesn't require any baking! Instead, this cake is assembled by layering together cubed angel food cake, cherry pie filling, vanilla pudding with sour cream, and whipped topping.
Ingredients

What you'll need to make this heaven on earth cake:
- 1 angel food cake (a pre-made cake or bake a boxed angel food cake mix and let it cool)
- 1 can (540 milliliters, 18 ounces) of cherry pie filling
- 1 package (4-serving) of instant vanilla pudding mix (102 grams, 3.6 ounces)
- 1½ cups of milk (2%)
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 8 ounces of Cool Whip
- Sliced almonds for garnish, optional
Pro Tip
The base of this dessert is a light angel food cake. You can either purchase a pre-made angel food cake from the store or bake your own.
If you’re baking your own make sure to let it cool fully before cutting it and assembling your cake.
When you cut your cake using a knife with a serrated blade, this will cut the cake easier, and you won’t lose the airy, fluffy texture of the cake.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your heaven on earth cake by swapping ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes make this dessert uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Drizzle Chocolate Sauce: Add a chocolate drizzle on top for a rich and indulgent finishing touch.
Substitute Cherry Pie Filling: If you'd like to make a strawberry version, try our strawberry heaven-on-earth cake instead!
Add Whipped Cream Layers: Add extra whipped cream between layers for a creamier and more decadent treat.
Sprinkle Nuts: Top the cake with chopped almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make A Heaven on Earth Cake
Follow our step-by-step instructions and pictures to make the perfect heaven on earth cake. Use our tips and tricks to ensure amazing results every time. Let’s get started and create this irresistible dessert together!
FIRST STEP: Cut the cooled angel food cake into cubes about 1” in size.

SECOND STEP: Layer half of the cake pieces evenly in the bottom of a 9x9 cake pan (metal or glass).
THIRD STEP: Spread ⅔ of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake.

FOURTH STEP: Layer the last half of the cake cubes over the cherry pie filling.
FIFTH STEP: In a medium bowl, stir together the pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth (about 2 minutes). Spread evenly over the top of the cake.

SIXTH STEP: Spread the Cool Whip evenly over top of the pudding layer. Drop & spread the rest of the cherry pie filling over the top.

SEVENTH STEP: Place in the fridge and let chill 4-5 hours before serving.

EIGHTH STEP: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top of the cake before you serve it (optional).
How To Serve
There are so many fun and delicious ways to serve heaven on earth cake! Whether it’s for a celebration or just dessert, this recipe fits any occasion. Here are some ideas for serving this irresistible treat:
- Perfect for Parties and Potlucks - Heaven on earth cake is always a crowd-pleaser at parties or potlucks. Its layered flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids and adults. Serve after finger foods like jalapeno poppers or buffalo chicken dip for a complete spread.
- Ideal for Holidays and Special Occasions - Serve this cake during holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas for an impressive yet easy dessert. Its bright colors and creamy layers bring cheer to any table. Complement it with pumpkin pie or cranberry Jello salad for a festive feast.
- A Sweet Treat for Summer Gatherings - This no-bake cake is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics. Its light and fruity flavors taste refreshing on warm days. Enjoy it alongside burgers and raspberry lemonade for a classic summer combination.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Heaven on earth cake is more than just a dessert—it's a beloved favorite for so many delicious reasons:
- A Decadent Blend of Flavors - This recipe layers sweet cherries, creamy pudding, and fluffy cake to create a dessert that feels luxurious in every bite. The whipped topping adds a light, airy finish that balances the richness, making it irresistible for any dessert lover.
- Effortless to Make - With simple ingredients and easy assembly, this cake is perfect for both beginner bakers and busy schedules. Its no-bake design ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dessert.
- Loved by All Ages - Kids adore the fruity, creamy layers, and adults love the nostalgic flavors and simplicity. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, making it ideal for any family occasion.
Heaven on earth cake isn’t just a treat—it’s a dessert that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable experience.

Recipe FAQ
Can I use a different type of cake for heaven on earth cake?
Yes, you can use pound cake or sponge cake instead of angel food cake. Both provide a delicious and sturdy base.
Do I need to chill heaven on earth cake before serving?
Yes, chilling the cake for at least 2 hours allows the layers to set and enhances the flavors.
What type of pudding works best for this recipe?
Instant vanilla pudding is ideal because it sets quickly and creates the creamy texture this dessert is known for.
How do I assemble the layers for heaven on earth cake?
Start with cake cubes, then layer pudding, cherry pie filling, and whipped topping. Repeat until the dish is full!

Serving FAQ
How should I serve heaven on earth cake at a party?
Serve it chilled in a clear dish to showcase the layers. Use a large spoon for easy and elegant serving.
Can I serve heaven on earth cake in individual portions?
Yes, divide the layers into small cups or jars for single-serve desserts. It’s fun and perfect for gatherings!
Is heaven on earth cake suitable for outdoor events?
Absolutely, but keep it in a cooler or shaded area to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor.
When is the best time to serve heaven on earth cake?
Serve it after a meal or as a midday treat. Its light and creamy layers make it a refreshing dessert anytime.

Storage FAQ
Can I make heaven on earth cake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the cake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftover heaven on earth cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze heaven on earth cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the whipped topping and pudding may lose their creamy texture when thawed.
How should I reheat heaven on earth cake?
This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating. Simply remove it from the fridge and enjoy!

Heaven On Earth Cake
Ingredients
- 1 angel food cake (a pre-made cake or bake a boxed angel food cake mix and let it cool)
- 1 can cherry pie filling (540 milliliters, 18 ounces)
- 1 package 4-serving instant vanilla pudding mix (102 grams, 3.6 ounces)
- 1 ½ cups milk (2%)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- sliced almonds (optional garnish)
DIRECTIONS
- Cut the cooled angel food cake into cubes about 1 inch in size.Pro Tip: If you are baking the cake yourself for this recipe, make sure to let it cool fully before cutting it so that it doesn’t make the other ingredients too warm.Pro Tip: The best knife to use when cutting angel food cake is one with a serrated blade, it will cut the cake easier, and you won’t lose the airy, fluffy texture of the cake.
- Layer half of the cake pieces evenly in the bottom of a 9x9 cake pan (metal or glass).
- Spread ⅔ of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cake.
- Layer the last half of the cake cubes over the cherry pie filling.
- In a medium bowl stir together the pudding mix, milk, and sour cream until smooth, about 2 minutes. Spread evenly over the top of the cake.
- Spread the Cool Whip evenly over top of the pudding layer. Drop and spread the rest of the cherry pie filling over the top.
- Place in the fridge and let chill 4 to 5 hours before serving.Pro Tip: This cake needs at least 4 to 5 hours in the fridge so it can soak up all of the flavors. Overnight is even better.
- Sprinkle slivered almonds on top of the cake before you serve it, optional.







Comments
lydia johnson says
So lushes and yummy. Easy and exciting!
Cami Seager says
This looked delicious so I just had to try it. I followed the recipe exactly as written. It turned out to be a huge success! My family and I loved it!😍
Susie says
Looks easy, so my kind of dessert!
Could this be assembled and served as a trifle?
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Susie - we haven't tried putting it in a trifle bowl, but it should work, enjoy!
Anonymous says
Absolutely amazing! I do not eat sweets and this is very good!
Anonymous says
Loved it and I don’t usually eat sweets!
Amy T says
We're so glad! Such a delicious, easy recipe!
Sheila says
I made this last night and its so good. I used 2 cans of cherry pie filling because we love a lot of cherries. I know its not going to last long in the fridge because its so good.
Paulette Whitman says
Can I use a regular white cake mix please let me know
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Paulette - we haven't tried using regular cake instead of the ready-made angel food cake. Please let me know if you give it a whirl. Enjoy!
Debrah says
My husband and I just love this dessert. I don’t have the words to describe how good it is so I’ll just say as soon as it’s gone my husband is asking when I am going to make it again, lol. Thank you so much for this extremely yummy recipe!
Jennifer A Gibbons says
Yum
Susan Trager says
I made this but I did not use sour cream and used a 9x13 inch glass dish. I did not double the recipe. It came out perfect and delicious. I’ll be taking this to a church dinner tomorrow.
Brenda says
How can you turn this into a 9x13 size.
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Brenda - you should be able to double the recipe for a 9x13. Enjoy!
eeegee says
I did! turned out perfect!
Janey Furches says
Heaven on earth cake: I have not made it yet but am going to the store tomorrow to get ingredients!
It looks delicious!
Michaele says
Do you have any suggestions regarding what pudding flavor might pair well with Apple Pie filling?
Yessi says
Something that pairs well with the fruit flavor you choose.
Terry says
I’ll bet French vanilla pudding would be wonderful! 😊