Cherries in the Snow Delight

Cherries in the Snow has always been my answer whenever I am craving a no bake dessert that feels like pure celebration in a pan The combination of fluffy cream cheese filling soft chunks of angel food cake and a bright layer of cherries makes this a crowd pleasing classic for potlucks or festive family dinners

I brought this to my neighbor’s holiday party last year and it was the first thing gone My kids ask for it every Valentine’s Day because it looks so special

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: Block style, room temperature gives a creamy stable base always check for fresh scent and no cracks
• Powdered sugar: Sifted dissolves smoothly into the filling choose fine powder for the silkiest texture
• Whole milk: Adds richness and just enough liquid opt for a full fat milk for best creaminess
• Vanilla extract: Provides fragrant warmth pure vanilla makes a big difference
• Frozen whipped topping: Thawed makes the filling light and airy go for name brands labeled as non dairy whipped topping
• Angel food cake: Pre baked, torn into pieces brings fluffy texture and mild sweetness select a store bought cake with good spring and a golden top
• Cherry pie filling: Provides bright fruity color and classic sweet tart flavor look for pie filling with whole cherries and a glossy finish

Instructions

Beat the Cream Cheese:

Place cream cheese in a large bowl Beat on medium high for several minutes stopping every minute to scrape down the sides Beating well removes any grainy texture and makes the base extra fluffy

Add the Sugar:

Gradually add sifted powdered sugar blending on medium Beat until mixture is silky with no lumps Sifting ensures there are no pesky sugar clumps

Mix in Milk and Vanilla:

Pour in whole milk and vanilla extract Beat again until everything is completely incorporated and the texture appears extra smooth It should look a bit like thick whipped cream

Fold in the Whipped Topping:

Using a large silicone spatula gently fold in the thawed whipped topping Do this in several stages so you do not lose any of the air that creates the fluffy mousse texture

Add Angel Food Cake Pieces:

Carefully fold in chunks of angel food cake trying to keep pieces intact so you get a nice bite in every scoop This step is best done gently so the cake does not collapse

Transfer and Layer:

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into a 9 by 13 inch baking dish Smooth the top then evenly spoon the cherry pie filling over the surface Make sure every corner is coated for the perfect sweet finish

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the whole dish for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours before serving Chilling lets the layers meld and makes serving easier

My favorite part will always be the contrast between the creamy filling and bright syrupy cherries It reminds me of long afternoons baking with my aunt who loved surprising us with this dessert when strawberries were out of season and cherries reigned at the market

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days The cake softens with time but it holds together beautifully Freeze individual squares tightly wrapped for up to two months then thaw in the fridge before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find angel food cake try using pound cake or plain sponge cake Both soak up the creamy mixture nicely For a lighter version swap out the cream cheese for Neufchatel cheese which has less fat You can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping but stabilize it with a touch of powdered sugar

Serving Suggestions

I love scooping generous spoonfuls into glass bowls to show the layers It looks extra pretty with a sprinkle of toasted chopped almonds or a few fresh mint leaves on top For a fun twist add thin shavings of dark chocolate over the cherries

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Cherries in the Snow traces its roots to mid century American kitchens drawn from a tradition of easy refrigerator desserts Angel food cake was a favorite after church treat in my mom’s small town and cherry pie filling symbolized celebration in wintertime where fresh fruit was rare It is a playful and nostalgic holiday classic

Seasonal Adaptations

Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a summery version Swap angel food cake for lemon loaf cake for a brighter flavor Top with fresh berries in spring for added freshness

Success Stories

A friend once made a batch using homemade cherry compote and said it was the star of her bridal shower Another cousin made single serving parfaits for a family picnic and there were no leftovers The nostalgia and simplicity of this dessert make it a memory maker for any occasion

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can make the whole recipe ahead and freeze just leave off the cherry topping until serving day When ready let it thaw overnight in the fridge then spoon pie filling on top before serving

I learned you can never overestimate how much everyone will love this dessert so be ready with the recipe cards

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cream cheese works best for this dessert?

Use full-fat block-style cream cheese at room temperature for the smoothest and richest flavor.

→ Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for the frozen topping?

Yes, fresh whipped cream can be used, but be sure it’s whipped to medium peaks for the best texture.

→ How far ahead can I prepare Cherries in the Snow?

This dessert can be made a day ahead; simply cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

→ What other fruits can I use as a topping?

Blueberry or strawberry pie filling are delicious alternatives to cherry for this layered dessert.

→ How do I prevent the angel food cake from getting soggy?

Fold the cake in gently and keep the layers distinct; refrigerate just until set for optimal texture.