Cherry Angel Dessert
Cherry Angel Dessert is a creamy, fruity layered treat combining tender angel cake with vanilla pudding and cherry pie filling. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, its sweet and tangy flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that's easy to prepare and always enjoyed by dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place broken up angel cake into a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex pan.
- Mix vanilla instant pudding with sour cream and milk; beat about 2 minutes until well blended.
- Pour pudding mixture over the cake pieces, covering them well.
- Spread cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate overnight to set.
- Cut into squares to serve. Whipped topping may be added on top if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat sour cream and almond milk in place of whole milk. You can also substitute the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries or any other fruit preserves you prefer. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. If you're short on time, use a store-bought angel cake for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Angel Dessert is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by topping each square with whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or a scoop of Lemon-Lime Refrigerator Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert can become soggy over time, so it's best enjoyed within the first couple of days. If you want to reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as this dessert is best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Angel Dessert contains roughly 310 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead of time. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together. This also ensures that the pudding sets properly, resulting in a firmer texture when served.
What can I substitute for cherry pie filling?
If cherry pie filling isn't available, you can use other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry. Alternatively, fresh berries mixed with a bit of sugar can be a delicious substitute, providing a fresher taste and a pop of color to the dessert.
Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cherry Angel Dessert is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients aside from dairy. For a vegan option, consider using plant-based yogurt and a vegan pudding mix, ensuring all ingredients align with your dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).