This Heaven On Earth Cake truly lives up to its name. It’s a light, creamy, and delightful dessert layered with moist vanilla cake, creamy pudding, and sweet cherries. I love how it’s easy to make yet feels so luxurious—perfect for any occasion when I want something that looks and tastes special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it combines simple pantry staples to create something that looks elegant and tastes divine. The layers of soft cake, smooth vanilla pudding, and cherry pie filling make every bite heavenly. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert since it tastes even better after chilling, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 box vanilla cake mix
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 cup sour cream
1 can cherry pie filling
1 container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Directions
I start by baking the vanilla cake according to the package instructions using water, oil, and eggs. Once baked, I let it cool completely.
I cut the cooled cake into cubes and set them aside.
In a medium bowl, I whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, I layer half of the cake cubes at the bottom.
I spread half of the pudding mixture over the cake, then spoon half of the cherry pie filling on top.
I repeat the layers with the remaining cake, pudding, and cherries.
I finish with a generous layer of whipped topping, spreading it evenly.
I refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 10–12 people. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30–35 minutes for baking the cake and about 4 hours of chilling time before serving.
Variations
I sometimes use lemon or white cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
For a chocolate twist, I replace the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding and use chocolate cake mix.
I can switch the cherry pie filling for blueberry or strawberry for a different fruity flavor.
A drizzle of chocolate or caramel syrup on top adds an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so I don’t reheat it. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling as the flavors blend together.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make Heaven On Earth Cake?
I can make it up to a day ahead of time. The longer it chills, the better the flavors develop.
Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?
Yes, I often use my own vanilla cake recipe—it works perfectly.
Can I freeze Heaven On Earth Cake?
I don’t recommend freezing it because the pudding and whipped topping can separate once thawed.
What other toppings can I add?
I like adding sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or white chocolate shavings for a bit of texture and decoration.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, I can use light sour cream, sugar-free pudding, or reduced-fat whipped topping to make a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
I love how easy and impressive this Heaven On Earth Cake is. It’s a dreamy dessert that combines creamy, fruity, and fluffy layers into one irresistible treat. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just when I want to treat myself to something sweet and heavenly.
Heaven On Earth Cake is a light, layered dessert made with moist vanilla cake, creamy vanilla pudding, tart cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s an easy yet impressive treat perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Total Time:4 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield:10–12 servings
Ingredients
1 box vanilla cake mix
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 cup sour cream
1 can cherry pie filling
1 container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Instructions
Preheat oven and bake the vanilla cake according to package instructions using water, oil, and eggs. Let it cool completely.
Cut the cooled cake into cubes and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream until smooth.
In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, layer half of the cake cubes.
Spread half of the pudding mixture over the cake layer.
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the pudding.
Repeat the layers with remaining cake, pudding, and cherries.
Top with a generous layer of whipped topping and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Use lemon or white cake mix for a different twist.
Substitute with chocolate cake and pudding for a chocolate version.
Try blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead of cherry.
Add toppings like almonds, coconut, or white chocolate shavings for texture.
Chill for at least 4 hours for best flavor and texture.
