Cherry Icebox Dessert
A creamy, cherry-flavored dessert layered with angel food cake and tart cherries, perfect for a light, fruity treat that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear apart the angel food cake and place it on the bottom of a 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the cake layer.
- Prepare the instant vanilla pudding according to package instructions.
- Mix the prepared pudding with sour cream and drained tart cherries.
- Spoon the cherry and pudding mixture on top of the pie filling layer.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix and low-fat sour cream. If you want to add extra flavor, a splash of almond extract in the pudding mixture can elevate the dessert. You can also substitute the tart cherries with fresh or frozen berries for a different taste. Ensure you let the dessert chill for at least four hours for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing Cherry Icebox Dessert chilled, garnished with whipped cream or fresh cherries on top for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of your favorite pie. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or a platter of fruit to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change when thawed. To enjoy it again, simply scoop out the desired portion and serve chilled. If it seems a bit dense after refrigeration, give it a gentle stir before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Icebox Dessert contains roughly 252 calories, with 5g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of cake for this dessert?
Yes, while angel food cake is light and fluffy, you can substitute it with a sponge cake or pound cake for a denser texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the dessert may change slightly.
How long can I keep this dessert in the fridge?
This Cherry Icebox Dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the longer it sits, the softer the cake layer will become as it absorbs moisture from the cherry filling and pudding mixture.
Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. It's best to prepare it the day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly in the refrigerator.
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).