Cherries Snow Bake Dessert has been my go-to for years, a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. I remember the first time I made this no bake cherry dessert for a summer picnic; the vibrant red cherries against the fluffy white layers were so visually appealing, and the sweet, creamy flavor was absolutely divine. It’s genuinely an easy cherry snow dessert to pull together, even for beginners. The combination of tender angel food cake, a rich cream cheese filling, and that luscious cherry topping creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
- It’s incredibly light and fruity, with a delightful creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- You only need about 20 minutes of active prep time, making it a perfect quick dessert.
- While it’s a treat, the fruit and lighter cake base make it a slightly more guilt-free indulgence.
- This cherry snow bake recipe is wonderfully budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
- It’s a guaranteed family favorite that even picky eaters will adore.
- The visual appeal is stunning, with bright red cherries and snowy white layers.
- This easy cherry snow dessert is wonderfully adaptable to your favorite fruits.
- Following this cherry snow bake recipe is foolproof, even for beginners!
Ingredients for Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful cherry snow bake dessert is a breeze. The star of the show, of course, is the cherry pie filling, but the magic really happens with the creamy mixture. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy cherry snow dessert:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – this is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling in this cherry snow bake with cream cheese.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps create that velvety texture.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream – whips up beautifully with the cream cheese for an extra rich layer.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – a little goes a long way to enhance the cherry flavor.
- 1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed – lightens the cream cheese mixture for that signature “snowy” appearance.
- 1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 1/2-inch cubes – provides a light, airy base that soaks up the flavors.
- 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling – the sweet, tangy star that gives this dessert its vibrant color and fruity punch.
How to Make Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
Putting together this simple no bake cherry dessert is a joy, and the cherry snow bake dessert instructions are straightforward. You’ll find the process is as enjoyable as the final product!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your dessert dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until they are wonderfully smooth and creamy. This is the base of our luscious filling.
- Step 3: Gradually add the heavy cream and almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until everything is well combined and the mixture has a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that airy, light texture for the best cherry snow bake dessert. Fold until no white streaks remain.
- Step 5: Now, let’s assemble! Spread about half of the cubed angel food cake evenly across the bottom of your serving dish. The cake will soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Step 6: Spoon about half of one can of the cherry pie filling over the angel food cake layer. Let it cascade down the sides a bit for a beautiful presentation.
- Step 7: Carefully spread about half of the cream cheese mixture over the cherry layer. This creates a delightful creamy layer in our cherry snow bake dessert instructions.
- Step 8: Repeat the layers: add the remaining angel food cake cubes, then the rest of the cherry pie filling, and finally, top it all off with the remaining cream cheese mixture. These cherry snow bake dessert instructions ensure even distribution of flavor.
- Step 9: Cover the entire dessert tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a truly homemade cherry snow bake.
Pro Tips for the Best Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
To ensure your cherry snow bake dessert is absolutely perfect, I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference. These tips will elevate your experience.
- Always use room temperature cream cheese; it makes beating it with the powdered sugar so much easier and results in a smoother filling.
- Don’t overmix the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. A gentle fold preserves that light, airy texture that is key to this dessert.
- Letting the dessert chill for at least 2 hours is non-negotiable. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating the ultimate dessert.
- For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect Cherries Snow Bake Dessert?
The secret to a truly perfect cherries snow bake dessert lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Using softened cream cheese and gently folding in the whipped topping creates that signature creamy, airy lightness. This simple no bake cherry dessert relies on quality ingredients treated with care. For more dessert inspiration, check out our recipes section.
Can I make Cherries Snow Bake Dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This homemade cherry snow bake is actually better when made ahead. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s well-chilled before serving. If you’re looking for other make-ahead options, consider our turkey meatloaf recipe.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cherries Snow Bake Dessert?
A common pitfall for a quick cherry snow dessert is using cold cream cheese, leading to a lumpy filling. Always soften it! Also, resist the urge to overmix the whipped topping, as this can deflate the airy texture. Ensure adequate chilling time for the best results. Learning about proper ingredient temperatures is key, much like when preparing Rotel ranch dip.
Best Ways to Serve Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
Presenting this beautiful cherry snow bake dessert is almost as fun as eating it! For a truly stunning dessert, consider garnishing it with a few extra maraschino cherries or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a light, fruity tea.
If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside this creamy cherry no bake dessert is pure bliss. For a more balanced treat, serve it alongside some fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries to cut through the sweetness. This dessert is always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings! You might also enjoy our frozen banana Snickers for another easy treat.
Nutrition Facts for Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
Enjoying a slice of this delightful cherry snow bake dessert is a sweet experience, and knowing the nutritional breakdown can be helpful. As with all homemade treats, these figures are estimates for this popular cherry dessert, varying based on specific ingredient brands and preparation details.
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For health-conscious options, explore our Zepbound weight loss recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
Properly storing your delicious homemade cherry snow bake is key to enjoying it over several days. Once this delightful dessert has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This is one of my favorite cherry snow bake ideas for keeping it fresh and preventing it from absorbing other fridge odors. You can keep this cherry snow bake dessert in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with an abundance of this wonderful treat, you’ll be happy to know it also freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. For a slightly warmer treat, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can affect the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherries Snow Bake Dessert
What makes this a “snow bake” dessert?
The name “snow bake” comes from the light, fluffy, almost snowy appearance of the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture. It’s a no-bake dessert, so the “bake” part is more about the layering and chilling process that allows the flavors to meld, much like a baked dessert would set.
How do I make cherry snow bake dessert if I don’t have angel food cake?
If you can’t find a pre-made angel food cake, you can easily make your own or substitute. Pound cake or even vanilla wafers crushed and layered can work. The key is a light cake base that can absorb the moisture from the cherries and cream cheese. Learning how to make a cherry snow bake often involves these kinds of ingredient swaps! For other baking substitutions, consider our keto cottage cheese bread recipe.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
You certainly can! If you use fresh cherries, you’ll want to pit them and cook them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a syrupy consistency similar to pie filling. This might add a little more prep time, but it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a truly homemade cherry snow bake and control the sweetness. For another fruit-based recipe, try our caramel brownie cheesecake.
What other fruits can I use in this cherry snow bake recipe?
This dessert is incredibly versatile! While cherries are classic, you can easily swap them out. Blueberry pie filling, peach pie filling, or even a mixed berry blend would be delicious. You could also try a pineapple or lemon curd for a different flavor profile.
Variations of Cherries Snow Bake Dessert You Can Try
While this classic Cherries Snow Bake Dessert is a winner as-is, I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. These cherry snow bake variations are simple ways to switch things up and keep this beloved dessert exciting!
- Berry Bliss: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry or mixed berry pie filling. The bright flavors complement the creamy layers beautifully, offering a delightful twist on the traditional cherry snow bake.
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple pie filling or canned crushed pineapple (drained well) instead of cherries. A hint of coconut extract in the cream cheese mixture can enhance this tropical flavor profile.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Gently fold in some mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture, or top the finished dessert with a drizzle of melted chocolate. It adds a decadent layer to the creamy cherry goodness.
- Lighter Version: For a slightly lighter take, use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping. You can also substitute the angel food cake with a store-bought pound cake or even a crushed graham cracker crust for different textures.
Cherries Snow Bake Dessert: Amazing 20-Min Treat
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light, fruity, and creamy no-bake dessert that is easy to assemble and perfect for any gathering. This Cherries Snow Bake Dessert features layers of angel food cake, creamy cheese mixture, and sweet cherry pie filling.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until wonderfully smooth.
- Gradually add the heavy cream and almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no more white streaks are visible.
- Spread about half of the cubed angel food cake evenly on the bottom of a large serving dish.
- Spoon about half of one can of the cherry pie filling over the angel food cake layer.
- Spread about half of the cream cheese mixture over the cherry layer.
- Repeat the layers: the remaining angel food cake cubes, the rest of the cherry pie filling, and finally, the rest of the cream cheese mixture.
- Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- The cake will soften further with time, which is considered by many to be even more delicious.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
