Last Updated on July 17, 2025 by recipeinspire
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Heaven on Earth Cake: 7 Steps to Divine Dessert Perfection
Have you ever wondered why some desserts can make you feel like you’ve ascended to a celestial realm? What if you could master a cake that embodies that very experience? The Heaven on Earth Cake is your answer! This delightful dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a celebration of sweetness that perfectly balances flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Indulge in the sweet layers of this Heaven on Earth cake, a perfect dessert for your Labor Day celebration. Discover more treats in our Labor Day Recipe collection.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through seven easy steps to create this divine dessert. Get ready to indulge your senses and elevate your baking game!
Ingredients List

- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1 cup of crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Substitution Suggestions:
- You can use whole wheat cake mix for a health-conscious version.
- Coconut can be swapped with almond flakes or omitted entirely for a nut-free option.
- Splenda or monk fruit sweetener can replace the powdered sugar, keeping the sweetness while reducing calories.
Timing
Preparing the Heaven on Earth Cake takes approximately 90 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 30 minutes for preparation and 60 minutes for baking and cooling. Notably, this is 20% less time than many traditional layer cakes, making it a quick yet lavish option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Mix the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil in a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps.
Tip: Allow your eggs and sour cream to reach room temperature for a fluffier cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Tip: Do not open the oven door during the first 20 minutes to prevent collapsing.
Step 3: Make the Topping
While the cake is baking, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending well until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in your topping.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Once the cake has cooled slightly (about 10-15 minutes), fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. This will create a light, fluffy topping that embodies the “heavenly” aspect of this cake.
Tip: Use a spatula and a gentle folding motion to maintain the whipped cream’s volume.
Step 5: Layer with Pineapple and Coconut
Spread a layer of the whipped topping on the cake, then top it with the crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your preference!
Tip: For added flavor, consider using a layer of fresh strawberries or bananas on top of the pineapple.
Step 6: Chill the Cake
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the topping to set beautifully.
Tip: If you can, let it chill overnight for an even more robust flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice into the decadent Heaven on Earth Cake and enjoy! Garnish with additional coconut or fresh fruit for visual appeal.
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Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
This rich dessert indeed fulfills that “heavenly” craving!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
You can enhance the nutritional profile of the Heaven on Earth Cake by:
- Replacing part of the cake mix with almond flour to add healthy fats and protein.
- Using low-fat versions of cream cheese and sour cream.
- Opting for fresh fruits instead of canned fruits with added sugars.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.
- Serve with a side of mixed berries to contrast the sweetness.
- Perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a light after-dinner treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: This can make your cake dense. Mix just until combined.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Frosting the cake while it’s still warm will cause the frosting to melt and run.
- Not Chilling: This cake is best served chilled, so resist the urge to eat it immediately.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover Heaven on Earth Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will remain fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment, just ensure they’re wrapped properly to avoid freezer burn.
Print
Heaven on Earth Cake: 7 Steps to Divine Dessert Perfection
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Heaven on Earth Cake is a dreamy, no-bake dessert made with layers of angel food cake, cherry pie filling, vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. It’s light, fluffy, fruity, and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you need a quick sweet fix!
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) prepared angel food cake, cut into cubes
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- Optional garnish: slivered almonds or crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a bowl, whisk together pudding mix, cold milk, and sour cream until smooth and thickened. Set aside.
- Layer the Cake: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer half of the cubed angel food cake.
- Add Pie Filling: Spread half the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
- Repeat: Add remaining cake cubes, then spread pudding mixture evenly over the top.
- Top and Chill: Spread whipped topping over pudding. Spoon remaining cherry pie filling on top and garnish as desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving for best texture.
Notes
Swap cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry for a fun twist. For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top before serving. Best made ahead and served chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: heaven on earth cake, cherry angel food cake trifle, no bake dessert, pudding cake, potluck dessert
Conclusion
Creating the Heaven on Earth Cake is a straightforward process that guarantees a dessert packed with flavor and texture. With its fluffy layers and tropical hint, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ready to impress your friends and family? Try this recipe now and share your feedback below! Don’t forget to explore similar dessert recipes on our site.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a gluten-free cake mix for this recipe?
A: Yes, a gluten-free cake mix is an excellent alternative; just ensure all other ingredients you use are gluten-free.
Q: How can I make this cake more festive?
A: Add food coloring to the cream cheese frosting or sprinkle with edible glitter for a touch of celebration.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance, and the chilling time will enhance the flavors further.
Dive into the world of heavenly desserts with this simple yet extraordinary recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!