sert You’ll Want to Make All Summer Long Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser for warm weather gatherings, let me introduce you to Heaven on Earth Cake: the no-bake dessert you’ll want to make all summer long. Layers of fluffy angel food cake, sweet-tart cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and clouds of whipped topping come together in a chilled, spoonable treat that tastes like pure sunshine. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a fuss-free treat to share with friends, this make-ahead marvel has summer written all over it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dessert is that it uses a short list of simple staples, but each one is absolutely essential for capturing the dreamy texture and irresistible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each part matters:

• Angel food cake: Store-bought or homemade, this light, spongy base soaks up all the luscious fillings and keeps each bite airy.
• Cherry pie filling: Bursts of juicy, tangy cherries add color and a pop of summer flavor throughout the cake.
• Vanilla instant pudding mix: The backbone of that silky, luscious custard layer—it’s pure nostalgia in every spoonful.
• Whole milk or half-and-half: Creamy dairy gives richness to the pudding without weighing it down.
• Sour cream: Adds an irresistible tanginess and velvety body to the pudding mixture.
• Frozen whipped topping (thawed): Spreads on like a dream and makes every bite feel like a summer cloud.
• Sliced almonds (optional): A little crunch for contrast—totally delicious but skip if there are nut allergies.

How to Make sert You’ll Want to Make All Summer Long

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cutting your angel food cake into 1-inch chunks—a serrated knife works best to keep all that fluffy texture intact. Make sure your cherry pie filling and whipped topping are ready to use, and gather everything in one spot—it’ll make assembly a breeze.

Step 2: Layer the Cake and Cherries

Scatter half of the cake cubes into the bottom of a deep 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. Spoon about 1 cup of cherry pie filling across the cake, ensuring even coverage. Then, follow with the rest of your angel food cake cubes for a second layer that’ll soak up all the magic.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pudding Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, milk (or half-and-half), and sour cream. Whisk vigorously for about a minute until it’s smooth, luscious, and starting to thicken. This “secret sauce” is the heart of the dessert—you’ll be licking the spoon!

Step 4: Pour and Spread the Pudding

Evenly pour your creamy pudding mixture over the top layer of angel food cake, making sure every nook is covered. Use a spatula to gently spread it out so the cake can soak up those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Top with Whipped Topping and Swirled Cherries

Generously spread the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer—this gives it that signature pillowy finish. Dollop the remaining cherry pie filling artfully on top, then use a toothpick or spoon to create beautiful swirls. It’s rustic, pretty, and oh-so inviting!

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Cover and refrigerate your Heaven on Earth Cake uncovered for at least 8 hours, or up to 12. Patience pays off: this resting time lets all the flavors meld, and each layer becomes perfectly moist. Just before serving, sprinkle with sliced almonds if you like, for that finishing crunch.

How to Serve sert You’ll Want to Make All Summer Long

Garnishes

This dessert deserves some fanfare when it hits the table! Sliced almonds are a classic, adding a delicate crunch. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra maraschino cherries make it festive and ready for photos. Mint sprigs or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce? Totally welcome!

Side Dishes

Because this is a sweet star, keep sides light. Serve with fresh summer berries for a refreshing contrast, or a scoop of lemon sorbet for a zippy finish. If you’re hosting a brunch, something bubbly—like a mimosa—pairs beautifully with every creamy, fruity bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Heaven on Earth Cake isn’t just for a big pan! Try assembling it in individual parfait glasses for summer parties—perfect for picnics or portioning for kids. Want to wow at a potluck? Use a trifle bowl to show off those gorgeous layers. Mini mason jars turn it into grab-and-go magic for poolside fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This is a sert you’ll want to make all summer long in advance, and it keeps beautifully! Cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cake actually gets better on day two—moister and even more flavorful!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Heaven on Earth Cake, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing might alter the texture of the pudding and whipped topping, making it less creamy after thawing. If you must freeze, wrap tightly and consume within a month for the best taste.

Reheating

This is one dessert that should stay cool—no reheating needed! Simply remove from the fridge, slice, and serve. If it’s a hot day, popping your slice in the freezer for 10 minutes gives it a frozen-treat vibe that’s irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use homemade angel food cake?

Absolutely! In fact, homemade adds an extra-special touch to your sert you’ll want to make all summer long. Just let it cool completely before cutting into cubes so it holds its shape in the layers.

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

You can swap in blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry pie filling for a different twist. Even a layer of lemon curd can transform this into a new kind of sert you’ll want to make all summer long. Have fun with your favorite flavors!

Is this safe for nut allergies if I skip the almonds?

Yes, leaving out the almonds keeps the dish nut-free. Always be sure to double-check your store-bought ingredients, like pie filling and cake, for possible cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Definitely! This dessert actually improves as it chills and the flavors meld. Prepare it the day before your gathering and just add the almonds or any garnish right before serving for extra crunch.

How do I transport this dessert?

Cover the pan snugly with a lid or several layers of plastic wrap, and keep it chilled until serving. For road trips or picnics, pop the dish in an insulated carrier with a few ice packs. Heaven on Earth Cake travels well, making it the sert you’ll want to make all summer long for every occasion.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend this enough—it’s the kind of sert you’ll want to make all summer long, and every bite brings a big smile. Give it a try at your next get-together or just as a sweet treat at home, and prepare to make some very happy memories (and maybe a new tradition!).

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