Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe
Introduction
Heaven on Earth Cake is a light, creamy dessert that combines fluffy angel food cake with sweet strawberry filling and a smooth vanilla pudding layer. This no-bake treat is perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 16-ounce box angel food cake mix
- 21-ounce can strawberry pie filling
- 8-ounce block cream cheese
- 3.4-ounce box Jell-O vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 8-ounce container Cool Whip whipped topping
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the angel food cake according to the package instructions and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into 1-inch cubes.
- Step 2: Place half of the cake cubes evenly in an ungreased 9×9 inch baking dish.
- Step 3: Spread about two-thirds of the strawberry pie filling over the layer of cake cubes.
- Step 4: Add the remaining cake cubes over the strawberry filling to form the second layer.
- Step 5: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Mix in the vanilla instant pudding mix, whole milk, and fresh lemon juice if using, until fully combined and smooth.
- Step 7: Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the layered cake and strawberry filling in the baking dish.
- Step 8: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pudding layer is set firmly.
- Step 9: After chilling, spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
- Step 10: Add the remaining strawberry pie filling on top of the Cool Whip layer.
- Step 11: Optionally, garnish with sliced almonds before serving to add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the pudding mixture—it brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Try substituting the strawberry pie filling with cherry or blueberry for a different fruity variation.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, use lite Cool Whip or reduce the amount of pie filling.
- To make ahead easier, prepare the cake and layers the day before, then add the Cool Whip and garnish just before serving.
Storage
Store leftover Heaven on Earth Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding and cake will soften over time, but it will still taste delicious. When ready to serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture. Avoid freezing as the whipped topping and pudding texture may be compromised.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without angel food cake mix?
Yes, you can bake a homemade angel food cake or substitute with another light, airy cake, but the texture may differ slightly.
Is it necessary to chill the cake for several hours?
Yes, chilling allows the pudding to set properly and the flavors to meld together, resulting in the best texture and taste.
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Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring airy angel food cake, luscious strawberry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and a light whipped topping. Perfectly chilled, this easy-to-make treat combines fluffy textures and fruity sweetness in every bite, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings or a special family treat.
Ingredients
Angel Food Cake Layer
- 16-ounce box angel food cake mix
Fruit Filling
- 21-ounce can strawberry pie filling
Pudding Layer
- 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened
- 3.4-ounce box Jell-O vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Topping
- 8-ounce container Cool Whip whipped topping
- Sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Cake: Prepare the angel food cake according to the package instructions. Once baked and cooled, cut the cake into 1-inch cubes to create the base layers for the dessert.
- First Cake Layer: Place half of the cube pieces evenly in an un-greased 9×9 inch baking dish, forming the first layer of the cake.
- Add Strawberry Filling: Spread about two-thirds of the strawberry pie filling evenly over the layer of cake cubes to add a sweet, fruity middle layer.
- Second Cake Layer: Add the remaining angel food cake cubes on top of the strawberry filling to form the next layer.
- Make Pudding Mixture: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Then stir in the vanilla instant pudding mix, whole milk, and optional fresh lemon juice until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Pour Pudding Over Cake: Pour the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the layered cake and strawberry filling in the baking dish.
- Chill Dessert: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or until the pudding is set and the layers have melded together.
- Add Topping and Garnish: After chilling, spread the Cool Whip whipped topping evenly over the set pudding layer. Spoon the remaining strawberry pie filling on top of the Cool Whip. Optionally, sprinkle with sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lemon zest for a milder citrus flavor.
- Using an un-greased baking dish helps the dessert layers adhere better.
- For a lighter option, use low-fat or fat-free milk and whipped topping alternatives.
- Sliced almonds add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted or replaced with other nuts if preferred.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Heaven on Earth Cake, angel food cake dessert, strawberry pudding dessert, no bake cake, easy layered dessert, creamy cake with fruit, whipped topping dessert
