Cherries in the Snow

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Light as a cloud with a ruby-red cherry topping, Cherries in the Snow is one of those retro no-bake desserts that never loses its charm. With a luscious whipped cream cheese layer nestled over a fluffy angel food cake base and topped with glossy cherry pie filling, it’s the kind of dessert that brings back memories while still feeling fresh.

This recipe is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert that looks impressive but is secretly effortless. It layers beautifully in a 9×13 pan and serves a crowd with ease. Each bite is creamy, fruity, and delicately sweet—the kind of treat that leaves people asking for the recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Cherries in the Snow

It’s no-bake, fuss-free, and feeds a crowd. You get the creamy texture of cheesecake without the baking or water baths. It’s also highly customizable—swap the cherry topping for blueberry or strawberry if you like. The light texture makes it ideal after a heavy meal or for spring and summer gatherings.

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What Kind of Cake Base Should I Use?

Angel food cake is the traditional choice for Cherries in the Snow because of its light and spongy texture. You can use a store-bought cake to save time or make your own from a mix or scratch. Pound cake or sponge cake can also work, but angel food keeps the dessert airy and balanced.

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Ingredients for the Cherries in the Snow

Angel Food Cake
This is your base layer. Its soft and fluffy texture makes a light contrast to the creamy topping.

Cream Cheese
The star of the creamy middle. It adds tanginess and structure that balances the sweetness.

Powdered Sugar
Sweetens the cream cheese without grittiness and blends in smoothly.

Vanilla Extract
For a soft, sweet flavor that enhances the overall profile.

Heavy Whipping Cream
Whipped to soft peaks, it brings cloud-like volume to the cream layer.

Cherry Pie Filling
The final crowning glory—sweet, tart, and vibrant, it adds bold flavor and color.

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How To Make the Cherries in the Snow

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Tear or cut your angel food cake into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will be the foundation of the dessert.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Set it aside while you prep the cream cheese layer.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Step 4: Fold In the Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until no streaks remain. This gives you a silky, mousse-like filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the angel food cake base, smoothing it out evenly. Then spoon two 21-oz cans of cherry pie filling over the top.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This lets the layers set and flavors meld. Slice and serve chilled.

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How to Serve Cherries in the Snow

This dessert is designed to serve 12 generous portions, making it perfect for parties, church gatherings, or big family meals. Use a large spoon or spatula to lift out squares and serve chilled for the best texture and taste. Garnish with extra whipped cream or fresh cherries if you’re feeling fancy.

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How to Store Cherries in the Snow

Keep Cherries in the Snow refrigerated in an airtight container or tightly covered with foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Freezing isn’t recommended due to the whipped cream layer, which can separate after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cherries in the Snow ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better made ahead so the layers can set. Prep it the day before and let it chill overnight.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Absolutely. Use about 2 cups of Cool Whip if you prefer the shortcut route.

Is there a low-sugar version of this dessert?
You can use light cherry pie filling and a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar version.

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
Blueberry, raspberry, or even strawberry pie filling works wonderfully.

Can I use a different cake?
Yes, sponge cake or pound cake can be used, but angel food keeps the dessert light and fluffy.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this creamy cherry dessert, here are more treats you might adore:

• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
• Mini Tiramisu Cups
• Oreo Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls
• Salted Caramel Cake
• Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the fruit? Try a homemade cake base? Add a dash of almond extract? I love hearing your versions and tips!

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