This effortless layered dessert combines fluffy angel food cake, cherry pie filling, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping—no baking required! A stunning make-ahead treat that’s as light as a cloud.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 13 oz (370g) store-bought angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 21 oz (595g) cherry pie filling (1 can, divided)
- 1 (3.5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1½ cups (360ml) 2% milk (or whole milk for richer texture)
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream
- 6 oz (170g) Cool Whip, thawed
- ¼ cup (30g) slivered almonds (optional, for crunch)
(Substitutions: Use strawberry or blueberry pie filling, or swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Layer the Cake & Cherries
- In an 8×8-inch dish, spread half the cake cubes in an even layer.
- Top with half the cherry pie filling.
- Repeat with remaining cake + cherries (reserve 2 tbsp cherries for garnish).
2. Make the Pudding Layer
- Whisk pudding mix + milk + sour cream for 1-2 mins until thick.
- Spread over the cake layer.
3. Add Whipped Topping
- Gently spread Cool Whip over pudding.
- Dollop reserved cherry filling on top; swirl with a knife.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate 2+ hours (or overnight) to set.
- Garnish with almonds before serving.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use homemade angel food cake?
✅ Yes! Bake your own, then cube and layer as directed.
Q: How to prevent soggy cake?
➡️ Don’t over-soak—ensure pudding layer is thick before adding.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
✅ Yes, but the texture will be tangier.
Q: How long does it keep?
- Fridge: Up to 2 days (best fresh).
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture suffers).
Q: Can I make it in a trifle dish?
✅ Absolutely! Layer in a glass bowl for a stunning presentation.
Serving Suggestions
🎉 Perfect for:
- Summer potlucks
- Holiday gatherings
- Bridal or baby showers
🍽 Pair with:
- Sparkling rosé
- Iced coffee
- Fresh mint sprigs
Nutrition (per serving): ~360 kcal
This heavenly dessert is light, fruity, and impossibly easy—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! 😇
Pro Tip: For extra elegance, garnish with chocolate shavings or edible flowers! 🌸
