Name: Cherries in the Snow Delight: No-Bake Creamy Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Cream Cheese (full-fat for extra richness); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sifted to prevent lumps); ½ cup Whole Milk (non-dairy milk can be substituted); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (or almond extract for variation); 8 ounces Frozen Whipped Topping (or homemade whipped cream); 5 cups Angel Food Cake (or plain sponge cake as an alternative); 1 can Cherry Pie Filling (or fresh cherries cooked with sugar for homemade topping)

As I opened my fridge, the sight of cherries in a glossy pie filling instantly took me back to joyful summer gatherings and cozy winter celebrations. This Cherries in the Snow Delight brings a nostalgic vibe with its creamy layers of whipped cream cheese folded with fluffy angel food cake, all crowned in sweet cherries. The beauty of this no-bake dessert lies in its simplicity, helping you whip up a showstopper without the fuss of an oven. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks or festive gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds! What’s your favorite memory associated with sweet treats like this? Let’s dive into the recipe and make some delicious new memories together!

Why is this dessert a must-try?

Nostalgic flavors evoke warm memories of family gatherings, making it a perfect choice for any festive occasion. No-Bake simplicity means you can prepare this delightful dish in minutes, with no oven required! Crowd-Pleasing appeal ensures everyone will enjoy this airy treat, leaving them yearning for more. Plus, feel free to get creative and substitute cherry pie filling with fresh seasonal fruits or nuts, adding your personal touch to the recipe. From summer picnics to winter parties, this Cherries in the Snow Delight will shine as a refreshing dessert choice that keeps your guests smiling. Why not explore other delightful recipes like Honey Garlic Chicken or Graham Cracker Crumble to complement your meal?

Cherries in the Snow Delight Ingredients

• Create your own luscious dessert experience with these easy-to-find ingredients!

For the Cream Mixture

Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and structure; use full-fat for extra richness.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve a smooth texture; sifting prevents pesky lumps.
Whole Milk – Thins the cream cheese mixture for a light and fluffy texture; non-dairy milk is a great substitute if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap with almond extract for a lovely cherry-almond twist.
Frozen Whipped Topping – Offers a light, airy feel; homemade whipped cream can elevate this dish further.

For the Base

Angel Food Cake – Serves as the base, adding fluffiness; plain sponge cake can be an alternative if needed.

For the Topping

Cherry Pie Filling – Provides a sweet, fruity finish; for a fresher taste, cook fresh cherries with sugar for a homemade topping.

With these ingredients, your Cherries in the Snow Delight will be a stunning centerpiece at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherries in the Snow Delight

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 8 ounces of cream cheese on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the cream cheese is evenly mixed. The mixture should be free of lumps and have a fluffy consistency, ready for the next ingredient.

Step 2: Add the Sweetness
Gradually sift in 1 cup of powdered sugar while continuing to mix on low speed. Once added, increase the speed to medium and continue beating until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture appears light and airy, about 1 minute. The sweetness should balance the tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a delightful base for your Cherries in the Snow Delight.

Step 3: Mix in Creaminess
Pour in ½ cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This addition not only enhances flavor but also thins out the mixture slightly, making it easier to fold in the whipped topping later.

Step 4: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in 8 ounces of thawed frozen whipped topping using a spatula. Take care to incorporate the whipped topping without overmixing; you want to retain that light, airy texture. Continue to fold until no white streaks remain, resulting in a luscious cream mixture perfect for layering.

Step 5: Incorporate the Angel Food Cake
Next, add in approximately 5 cups of bite-sized angel food cake pieces to the creamy mixture. Using the spatula, carefully fold until the cake is evenly coated in the cream, ensuring you maintain the fluffy texture of the cake. This step is crucial for achieving the delightful, cloud-like texture in your Cherries in the Snow Delight.

Step 6: Create the Base Layer
Transfer the cream and cake mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth top layer. Make sure the mixture is distributed evenly for uniform cooling. This step lays the foundation for the delightful cherry topping that will follow.

Step 7: Add the Cherry Topping
Once the cream mixture is smoothly spread in the baking dish, pour 1 can of cherry pie filling evenly over the top. Use a spoon to gently spread the filling, so it covers the cream layer completely without disturbing it. This beautiful, glossy topping will provide a striking contrast and delicious flavor to your Cherries in the Snow Delight.

Step 8: Chill and Set
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the dessert to chill for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2 hours, so the layers set properly. When ready, the dessert should be firm yet creamy, and the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a refreshing treat. Serve chilled for the best experience!

Cherries in the Snow Delight Variations

Feel free to customize this dessert and make it your own—let your creativity shine through while savoring every delightful layer!

Seasonal Fruit: Use fresh strawberries or blueberries instead of cherry pie filling for a fruity twist. They bring a burst of color and brightness to the creamy layers.
Almond Flavor: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor and give your dessert a lovely nutty undertone. It’s a subtle yet delightful change!
Nuts Galore: Add finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an irresistible crunch that contrasts pleasantly with the creamy texture. They bring an extra layer of flavor that’s simply divine.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cherry topping for a decadent touch. This rich addition beautifully complements the fruity layer while satisfying any chocolate cravings!
Non-Dairy Delight: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version. Pair it with coconut whipped cream for an extra layer of lusciousness, making your treat accessible for everyone!
Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the cream mixture for a zingy freshness. The bright notes enhance the overall flavor while lifting the dessert’s profile.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream mixture to add warmth and depth. It’s a delightful surprise that can make your dessert feel even more comforting!
Layered Cups: Instead of a large dish, layer the cream mixture and cherry topping in individual cups or glasses for a charming presentation at gatherings. Scatter some crushed graham crackers in-between for added texture!

Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like Joy Christmas Fudge or Graham Cracker Crumble for an exciting variety to complement your Cherries in the Snow Delight!

Storage Tips for Cherries in the Snow Delight

Refrigerator: Keep your Cherries in the Snow Delight tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its fluffy texture and prevents drying out.
Freezer: It’s not advisable to freeze this dessert, as thawing will cause the texture to deteriorate and lose its lightness.
Serving Preparation: For the freshest presentation, add cherry pie filling just before serving. This keeps the topping looking vibrant and appetizing!
Reheating: Since this is a no-bake dessert, it doesn’t require reheating. Serve it chilled directly from the fridge for the best experience!

Expert Tips for Cherries in the Snow Delight

Stay Smooth: Avoid over-mixing when incorporating the whipped topping and cake pieces; this helps maintain a light, airy texture in your Cherries in the Snow Delight.
Refrigeration is Key: Keep the dessert chilled until ready to serve. This ensures the layers set properly and the texture remains delightfully creamy.
Fresh is Best: If using fresh cherries, simmer them with some sugar to replicate the flavor of cherry pie filling. This homemade touch can elevate your dessert.
Serve it Right: For aesthetic appeal, serve in individual bowls or carefully slice into squares for defined servings. This keeps each portion looking fresh and inviting.
Short Storage: The Cherries in the Snow Delight can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add cherry topping right before serving to keep it looking appealing and fresh.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherries in the Snow Delight are a lifesaver for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the creamy filling and layer it with the angel food cake up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a delightful treat is just a fridge away. Simply follow the instructions until the dessert is layered in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Adding the cherry pie filling should be done just before serving to keep the topping looking fresh and vibrant. This way, your dessert maintains its glossy appeal and delicious flavors, making it just as irresistible on the day of serving!

What to Serve with Cherries in the Snow Delight?

As you prepare this creamy dessert, consider pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance the experience and elevate your gathering.

Buttery Shortbread Cookies: Their crumbly texture complements the smoothness of the dessert, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Perfect for dipping!
Fresh Berries: A mixed berry medley brightens the plate, offering a tart contrast to the sweet cherry topping, enhancing freshness in every mouthful.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool, minty flavor beautifully balances the sweetness of the cherries, creating a delightful contrast that’s creamy and refreshing.
Nutty Granola: Adding a sprinkle of granola introduces a satisfying crunch, complementing the creamy layers and elevating the overall texture.
Homemade Lemonade: A glass of tangy lemonade keeps things fresh and cuts through the richness, providing a beautifully refreshing drink choice.
Whipped Cream Dollop: Extra whipped cream on the side enhances the lightness of the dessert, making it feel even more indulgent and inviting.

Cherries in the Snow Delight Recipe FAQs

What cherries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using cherry pie filling from a can for convenience and sweetness. Alternatively, if you prefer a fresher taste, use ripe, pitted cherries. Simmer them gently with a bit of sugar on the stove for about 10-15 minutes until they become juicy and syrupy, creating a delicious homemade topping for your Cherries in the Snow Delight.

How long can I store Cherries in the Snow Delight?
You can store this delightful dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if tightly covered! Just make sure to add the cherry topping right before serving to keep the dessert looking fresh and vibrant—nobody likes a wilted topping!

Can I freeze Cherries in the Snow Delight?
Very! Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended for this dessert. The creamy texture will change, becoming grainy upon thawing. If you absolutely need to, prepare the layers and keep the cherry topping separate. You can freeze the cream mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and add the pie filling just before enjoying.

What should I do if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If you find lumps in your cream cheese mixture, it’s likely due to insufficient mixing. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, which should help. Additionally, using an electric mixer can make a difference! If lumps persist, you can sift the powdered sugar before adding it to help smooth things out.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This Cherries in the Snow Delight is naturally vegetarian, making it suitable for various diets. However, always check for personal allergies when choosing your ingredients, especially with whipped toppings, which can vary in composition. If you have lactose intolerance, consider using non-dairy alternatives for cream cheese and whipped topping!

Can I use a different cake instead of angel food?
Yes, the more the merrier! While angel food cake is perfect for maintaining the airy texture, you can substitute it with a light sponge cake. Just ensure that the pieces you use remain fluffy to replicate that cloud-like feel! This substitution will still result in a delightful dessert.