If you are on the hunt for a show-stopping yet incredibly simple treat, the Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe is the answer to your cravings. This delightful dessert combines fluffy angel food cake, creamy whipped topping, and luscious cherry pie filling to create a blissfully light and fruity experience that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night at home, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a slice of happiness coated in creamy sweetness and vibrant cherry goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe is in its straightforward and purposeful ingredients. Each one plays a key role: from the creamy tang of cream cheese to the airy softness of angel food cake, and the bright, juicy cherries that crown the dessert with color and flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): Provides a smooth, tangy base that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and helps achieve a silky texture in the cream cheese mixture.
- 2% milk (1/2 cup, divided): Adds moisture and lightness, ensuring the cream cheese blends seamlessly.
- Cool Whip whipped topping (12 ounces, thawed): Infuses the dessert with fluffiness and creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- Angel food cake (1 pre-baked 9-inch): Brings an airy and spongy structure that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Cherry pie filling (2 cans, 21 ounces each): The star ingredient that delivers sweetness, tartness, and vibrant red color, making the dessert pop visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Base
Start by whipping the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Using a hand mixer makes it easy to achieve a creamy, lump-free mixture. Gradually add the milk in two parts, mixing thoroughly each time until you get a smooth, silky base. This mixture forms the luscious heart of the dessert and sets the stage for the light texture you’ll adore.
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Next, gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture. This part requires a delicate hand—use a spatula to combine just enough to keep the fluffiness intact. Overmixing would deflate the airiness, and the fluffy texture is what gives this dessert its signature cloud-like softness.
Step 3: Add Cake Pieces
Break the angel food cake into small, bite-sized chunks. These airy pieces absorb the creamy mixture like a dream. Fold them in carefully so that each piece is fully coated but still retains some lightness and bounce. This creates a textured, satisfying base layer in every spoonful.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
Transfer the combined cake and cream cheese mixture into a 9×13-inch glass baking pan. Spread it evenly to create a smooth, uniform layer that will hold the cherry topping beautifully. This sets the foundation for the stunning visual and flavor contrast that follows.
Step 5: Top with Cherries
Now for the showstopper—spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top. The sweet and tart cherries add an irresistible burst of flavor while infusing the dessert with a gorgeous jewel-like shine. Make sure the entire surface is covered so every slice gets that lovely cherry finish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover your creation and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill thoroughly. Once set, slice and serve straight from the pan. The cool, creamy layers paired with juicy cherries make this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few toasted almond slices or a dusting of powdered sugar on top to elevate the presentation and add a slight crunch or extra sweetness. Fresh cherries or a sprig of mint also make a lovely, fresh garnish that complements the dessert’s texture and brightness.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a crisp glass of dessert wine. If you’re serving a meal, keep the sides light—perhaps a simple fruit salad or vanilla-flavored ice cream to highlight the cherry flavors without competing with them.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in clear parfait glasses for an elegant layered look. You can also create mini trifle jars to make individual servings portable and visually stunning. Layering cherries and cake mixture in different ways can turn this comforting dessert into a conversation piece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy schedules.
Freezing
To freeze, store the dessert in a freezer-safe container, tightly sealed. Keep in mind that thawing may slightly soften the cake texture, but the flavors hold up well. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Letting it sit out for 15–20 minutes before serving will soften it slightly if it has been refrigerated.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake?
Angel food cake is traditional because of its light texture, but you can experiment with chiffon or sponge cake. Just keep in mind these may alter the overall fluffiness and moisture balance.
Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped topping to make a delicious dairy-free version.
How long should I refrigerate before serving?
A minimum of two hours is needed for the dessert to set and the flavors to meld. Overnight chilling will only enhance the taste and texture.
Can I prepare this dessert for a large party?
Absolutely! Since the recipe yields approximately 15 servings, it’s perfect for gatherings. You can easily double the recipe for even bigger crowds.
What is the best way to serve this dessert at a potluck?
Bring it in a sturdy, covered baking dish to keep it chilled and intact, then slice it once ready to serve. You might want to bring along a serving spatula to make dishing out easy and mess-free.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your friends or family with something that tastes homemade and indulgent but is so easy to make, the Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe should be your go-to. It’s a delightful blend of creamy, fluffy, and fruity elements that come together in a stunningly simple way. Give it a try – I promise this dessert will become one of your favorite treats to bring out on special occasions or whenever you need a sweet, comforting pick-me-up.
Print
Cherries in the Snow Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherries in the Snow is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a creamy blend of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and Cool Whip whipped topping mixed with angel food cake pieces and topped with luscious cherry pie filling. This easy-to-assemble treat is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared in just 20 minutes, then chilled until ready to serve.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Base
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup 2% milk, divided
- 12 ounces Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
Cake and Topping
- 1 (9-inch) pre-baked angel food cake
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Make the Cream Cheese Base: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Mix in 1/4 cup of milk, then add the remaining 1/4 cup milk and blend again until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to retain the light and fluffy texture.
- Add Cake Pieces: Break the pre-baked angel food cake into small bite-sized pieces. Add these pieces into the cream cheese and Cool Whip mixture, folding gently until all cake pieces are coated evenly.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spoon the cake mixture into a 9×13-inch glass baking pan. Spread it out evenly in the pan to form a uniform layer.
- Top with Cherries: Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the cake mixture, ensuring the whole surface is covered with the luscious cherry topping.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dessert and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy directly from the pan.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Gently folding in the Cool Whip helps keep the dessert light and fluffy.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, allowing flavors to meld.
- Use a glass baking pan for an attractive presentation that can go directly to the table.
- Variations can include substituting cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings for different flavors.
