Cherries in the Snow is an old-fashioned recipe that brings a classic touch to your dessert table. This easy-to-make treat layers soft angel food cake with a smooth cream cheese blend and cherry pie filling. It’s a nostalgic and simple dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Cherries in the Snow is a classic, old-fashioned dessert that has stood the test of time with its simple yet delightful combination of flavors. It features layers of airy angel food cake, a smooth cream cheese mixture, and a generous topping of cherry pie filling, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This dessert dates back to simpler times and brings a touch of nostalgia to any table, making it a beloved treat for both its taste and its timeless charm.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It’s a no fuss recipe, simple to make, and ready in just 20 minutes.
- The dessert needs very few and simple ingredients. It combines light angel food cake with creamy, rich cream cheese and sweet cherry pie filling.
- The classic, timeless appeal makes it a favorite for kids and adults.
- Ideal for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or as a special treat at home.
Ingredients Needed
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
- Angel Food Cake: You can either buy a pre-baked cake from the store or bake one using a mix. If baking at home, ensure it’s fully cooled before using.
- Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor. Soften it at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioner’s sugar, it blends smoothly for a lump-free cream cheese mixture.
- Milk: Any type of milk will work, but whole milk gives a creamier texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor.
- Whipped Topping: You can use store-bought whipped topping for convenience. If you prefer homemade whipped cream, whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until it forms stiff peaks.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Choose a quality brand for the best cherry flavor and a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Chopped Pecans (optional): Adds a nice crunch. Toast them lightly for an enhanced flavor.
How To Make Cherry in The Snow Dessert
- Prepare the Cake: Tear the pre-baked 9-inch angel food cake into small, bite-sized pieces. Set these aside in a bowl.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: Blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, then gently fold in the whipped topping.
- Combine Cake with Cream Cheese Mixture: Carefully fold the cake pieces into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13 inch dish and top with cherry pie filling.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Add Final Touches (Optional): Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top before serving, if desired.
Recipe Success Tips
- Cake Consistency: Ensure the angel food cake is completely cooled before tearing it into pieces. This helps maintain the cake’s texture and prevents it from becoming too dense.
- Cream Cheese Softening: Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. This makes it easier to blend and results in a smoother mixture.
- Gentle Folding: When combining the cake with the cream cheese mixture, fold gently. This keeps the cake airy and prevents it from getting squashed.
- Even Layering: For a visually appealing and evenly flavored dessert, spread the cream cheese and cake mixture smoothly and top it evenly with the cherry pie filling.
- Chilling Time: Give the dessert enough time to chill and set in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Serving Temperature: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Optional Toppings: If using pecans or any other toppings, add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form. Keep in mind that homemade whipped cream may not be as stable as store-bought whipped topping over time.
Absolutely! Cherries in the Snow can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Add any crunchy toppings like pecans just before serving to maintain their texture.
Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or even mixed berry. The recipe is versatile and works well with a variety of fruit flavors.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days. The texture of the angel food cake may change slightly over time as it absorbs moisture from the filling.
To make this dessert gluten-free, use a gluten-free angel food cake. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure, especially if you’re serving someone with celiac disease or a severe gluten intolerance.
I hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Cherries in the Snow recipe as much as I do. If you try it out, please take a moment to rate and review it – your feedback is always appreciated! And don’t forget to pin this recipe so you can easily find it for your next gathering or sweet craving.
Did you make this? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest!
Cherries in the Snow Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch angel food cake
- 8 oz. cream cheese softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 oz. whipped topping
- 2 21 oz. cans cherry pie filling
- Chopped pecans for topping, optional
Instructions
- Tear the angel food cake into small, bite-sized pieces. Set these aside.
- In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer to whip the cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together.
- Gently mix in the whipped topping.
- Carefully fold in the angel food cake pieces until they are fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Spread this mixture evenly in a 9×13 inch dish.
- Pour the cherry pie filling over the top. Spread it out to cover the mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dessert to set.
- If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans over individual servings.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can bake your own angel food cake using a mix. Just follow the instructions on the package.
Nutrition
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
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