Light, fluffy, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor—this no-bake layered dessert is made with creamy whipped filling, soft angel food cake, and vibrant cherry pie topping. A show-stopping crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a beautiful and refreshing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherries in the Snow is the kind of dessert that looks elegant but comes together with minimal effort. There’s no baking involved, making it ideal for warm-weather gatherings or busy schedules. The combination of creamy filling, airy cake, and juicy cherry topping delivers a delightful texture and flavor contrast. It also serves a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time—perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- cream cheese, softened
- powdered sugar
- 2% milk
- Cool Whip (thawed)
- pre-baked angel food cake
- cherry pie filling
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add half of the milk (¼ cup) and mix until blended. Then add the remaining ¼ cup and continue mixing until fully smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Tear the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the whipped mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the cake mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch glass baking dish.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it into an even layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve chilled for best results.
Servings and timing
Servings: 15 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories per Serving: 230 kcal
Variations
- Berry Blend: Use blueberry or mixed berry pie filling instead of cherry for a different flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a thin drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cherries for extra decadence.
- Lemon Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright citrus note.
- Mini Servings: Assemble in individual parfait cups for elegant, single-serve portions.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans over the top for added texture.
- Low-sugar option: Use light or sugar-free pie filling and whipped topping to reduce sugar content.
Storage/Reheating
Store Cherries in the Snow covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert does not freeze well, as the whipped topping and fruit filling may separate upon thawing. Always serve chilled. If making ahead, assemble up to a day in advance to maintain optimal freshness and structure.
FAQs
Can I make Cherries in the Snow a day ahead?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for preparing in advance. It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but it may not hold its shape as long as Cool Whip. Stabilize it with a bit of gelatin or powdered sugar if needed.
What type of dish works best for this dessert?
A 9×13-inch glass baking dish is ideal to showcase the beautiful layers, but any similar-sized dish will work.
Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?
Absolutely. Blueberry, strawberry, or even peach pie filling can be used based on your preference.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free angel food cake. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How long does this dessert last in the fridge?
It will keep well for up to 3 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the whipped topping and fruit filling can change significantly upon thawing.
How do I prevent the dessert from becoming soggy?
Ensure the cake is torn into bite-sized pieces and well-folded into the cream mixture to help absorb it evenly. Also, serve within 1–2 days for best texture.
Can I make this dessert lighter?
Yes, use light cream cheese, sugar-free pie filling, and a light whipped topping to reduce calories and sugar.
Is this dessert suitable for a crowd?
Definitely. It serves 15 people and is ideal for potlucks, parties, or holiday gatherings.
Conclusion
Cherries in the Snow is a stunning, no-bake dessert that delivers on both presentation and taste. With its fluffy layers and vibrant cherry topping, it’s bound to be a favorite at any gathering. Easy to assemble and ideal for make-ahead prep, this dessert combines convenience and elegance in every bite. Serve it chilled and enjoy the sweet simplicity of this classic treat.
PrintCherries in the Snow (No-Bake Angel Cake Dessert)
Light, fluffy, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor, this no-bake dessert layers creamy whipped filling, soft angel food cake, and vibrant cherry pie topping for an easy and irresistible treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup 2% milk, divided
- 12 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
- 1 pre-baked 9″ angel food cake
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add ¼ cup of milk and mix until incorporated. Then add the remaining ¼ cup of milk and blend until fully smooth.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Tear the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the whipped mixture.
- Spread the cake mixture evenly into a 9×13 glass baking dish.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it into an even layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Best served chilled.
Notes
- Use a serrated knife to cut the cake into more uniform pieces if preferred.
- Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry for a twist.
- Can be made a day ahead for easy entertaining.
- Low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping can be used for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg