Name: Heaven on Earth Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16-ounce box angel food cake mix; 21-ounce can strawberry pie filling; 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, to taste); 8-ounce container Cool Whip whipped topping; Sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful layered dessert combining light angel food cake, sweet strawberry filling, and creamy vanilla pudding. This no-bake treat is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a special indulgence.

A square slice of strawberry shortcake sits on a white plate, showing four clear layers. At the bottom is a light golden sponge cake layer, followed by a thick white whipped cream layer mixed with fresh sliced strawberries soaked in vibrant red strawberry syrup. Above that is another light sponge cake layer coated generously with smooth whipped cream. The top layer consists of glistening, whole and halved fresh strawberries covered in a shiny red glaze dripping slightly down the sides. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 directions. Once baked and 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 first layer of cake cubes.
Step 4: Add the remaining cake cubes on top of the strawberry filling layer.
Step 5: In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Mix in the vanilla instant pudding mix, whole milk, and optional fresh lemon juice until fully combined and smooth.
Step 7: Pour this pudding mixture evenly over the layered cake and 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 completely set.
Step 9: Once set, spread the Cool Whip whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer and add the remaining strawberry pie filling on top.
Step 10: Optionally, garnish with sliced almonds before serving for a crunchy contrast.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice sparingly to brighten the pudding flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
Swap strawberry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry or cherry for a different twist.
For a richer pudding layer, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
To keep the cake cubes from becoming soggy, chill them separately before assembling.

Storage

Store the assembled cake covered in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2 to 3 days. When ready to serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping and pudding layers may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

A square slice of strawberry shortcake sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The cake has three main layers: a bottom layer of light, fluffy yellow sponge cake, a middle layer of thick white whipped cream mixed with slices of fresh red strawberries, and a top layer of more sponge cake covered with a thick fluffy layer of whipped cream topped with glossy, sliced strawberries dripping with shiny red strawberry syrup that also pools slightly on the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade angel food cake instead of the mix?

Absolutely! Homemade angel food cake works just as well and adds a personal touch to the dessert.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake before serving?

Yes, refrigeration allows the pudding layer to set properly and the flavors to meld, ensuring a creamy and firm texture.