Hi sweet friend! I’m so thrilled you’re here – this recipe is one of those beautiful, effortless desserts that just makes people happy. Whether you’re heading to a potluck, need a summer-friendly dessert, or just want something sweet without the oven, this Heaven on Earth Cake (also known as Cherry Angel Trifle) delivers big flavor with very little effort.
Trust me – this is one of those recipes you’ll want to save, share, and make again and again. If that sounds like your kind of dessert, make sure to subscribe to my email list – I’ve got so many more easy gems coming your way!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Angel Trifle
This is one of those “dump and layer” miracles that turns a few simple ingredients into something show-stopping. Light, creamy, tart, and sweet — it’s everything you want in a chilled dessert.
✔️ No-bake & no-fuss – perfect for summer!
✔️ Pretty enough to serve guests, easy enough for a weeknight treat.
✔️ A texture-lover’s dream – fluffy, creamy, juicy, and silky.
✔️ Feeds a crowd and keeps beautifully in the fridge.
What Does It Taste Like?
It’s like cherry cheesecake met an angel food cake and decided to go to a summer party. The cake is soft and airy, the pudding-yogurt layer is cool and creamy, and the cherry pie filling adds a burst of tart, fruity brightness. The whipped topping and optional almonds take it over the top – in the best way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Store-bought or homemade angel food cake | 1–2 cakes, cubed |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 1 (3.4 oz.) box |
| Cold milk | 1 ½ cups |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 1 cup |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 (21 oz.) can |
| Frozen whipped topping, thawed | 1 (8 oz.) container |
| Toasted almond slivers (optional) | As needed |
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish or trifle bowl
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric hand mixer
- Rubber or offset spatula
Ingredient Additions & Variations
✨ Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or peach.
✨ Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier bite.
✨ Add crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbles between layers.
✨ Add a splash of almond extract to the pudding for extra depth.
✨ Sprinkle in mini chocolate chips for a cherry-chocolate combo!
How to Make Heaven on Earth Cake
1️⃣ Cube the Cake
Cut your angel food cake(s) into bite-sized cubes. Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it begins to thicken (about 1–2 minutes). Gently fold in the Greek yogurt until smooth.
3️⃣ First Layering
In a 9×13-inch dish, add half of the cubed angel food cake in an even layer. Top with about ⅔ of the cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly.
4️⃣ Second Layering
Add the remaining cake cubes on top of the cherry layer. Then pour the pudding-yogurt mixture over the top, spreading to fill in the gaps.
5️⃣ Final Topping
Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer. Finish with the remaining cherry pie filling, drizzled decoratively across the top.
6️⃣ Garnish (Optional)
Sprinkle with almond slivers – toast them in a dry pan beforehand for amazing crunch and flavor!
7️⃣ Chill & Set
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow everything to set and the flavors to meld.
What to Serve With This Dessert
- A cup of black coffee or tea (balances the sweetness beautifully)
- Fresh mint leaves as garnish for a pop of green
- Extra sliced almonds or crushed cookies on the side
Tips for Success
✔️ Use day-old angel food cake if possible – it holds up better!
✔️ Chill well – don’t skip the setting time. It gets better the longer it rests.
✔️ Make it ahead – it’s even better the next day!
✔️ Want it less sweet? Use plain yogurt and choose a fruit filling with less sugar.
How to Store Heaven on Earth Cake
Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The longer it sits, the more it softens into a creamy, dreamy trifle texture. Avoid freezing – it can affect the texture of the yogurt and pudding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a trifle bowl?
Absolutely! It’s gorgeous layered in a glass trifle dish or individual dessert cups.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, just let it cool fully before combining with the yogurt.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free pudding mix, plant-based milk, coconut yogurt, and a whipped coconut topping.
Let’s Wrap This Up!
If you’re looking for a no-bake dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Heaven on Earth Cake is exactly what you need. Light, creamy, and full of flavor, it’s a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite.
Looking for more no-bake favorites? You’ll love:
- Peach Cheesecake Icebox Cake
- Strawberry Cream Lush
- Lemon Oreo Trifle Cups
💛 Did you make this recipe? I’d love to see your creations! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or tag me on Pinterest so I can cheer you on in your kitchen!
Nutrition Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 270
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
🍒✨ Here’s to easy desserts that taste like heaven – happy layering, and even happier eating!