Strawberry Heaven on Earth Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its light, airy layers of angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and vibrant strawberry pie filling. This cake not only looks stunning but also tastes heavenly, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
1 packaged angel food cake (10 oz): The base layer of the dessert, providing a light and fluffy texture.
1 can of strawberry pie filling (21 oz): Adds a burst of fruity sweetness and a beautiful red color.
1 package of vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 oz): Creates a creamy, rich layer that complements the cake and strawberries.
2 cups of milk: Used to prepare the vanilla pudding, adding creaminess to the dish.
1 cup of sour cream: Adds a slight tang to the pudding, balancing the sweetness.
1 cup of whipped topping (8 oz): Lightens the dessert, creating a fluffy top layer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Angel Food Cake:
Begin by baking the angel food cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely. This ensures easy handling and prevents the cake from crumbling too much.
Once the cake has cooled, remove it from the pan and crumble it into small pieces using your hands or a fork. Spread the crumbled cake evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish to form the base layer.
2. Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
Gently fold in the sour cream until well combined, creating a smooth and creamy pudding mixture.
3. Assemble the Cake Layers:
Pour the prepared pudding mixture over the crumbled angel food cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure the cake is fully coated.
Open the can of strawberry pie filling and spread it evenly over the pudding layer. The vibrant red color of the strawberries adds visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor.
4. Top with Whipped Cream:
Gently spread the whipped topping over the strawberry layer, creating a light and fluffy top layer. For a decorative touch, use the back of a spoon or a spatula to create swirls or peaks in the whipped topping.
5. Chill:
Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.
6. Serve:
Once the cake has chilled and set, it’s ready to be served. For added flair, you can garnish the cake with additional whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, or even a sprinkle of grated chocolate or crushed nuts.
Variations and Substitutions
Alternative Fruit Options: Substitute the strawberry pie filling with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango for a different flavor profile.
Other Garnish Ideas: Enhance the presentation by adding grated chocolate, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of fruit syrup on top.
Dietary Preferences: For a lighter version, use lite whipped topping and skim milk. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and non-dairy whipped topping.
Final Notes
Strawberry Heaven on Earth Cake lives up to its name, offering a divine combination of textures and flavors that delight the senses. The airy layers of angel food cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and fresh strawberry filling make this dessert a true showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Enjoy every bite of this heavenly dessert!
