Cherries in the Snow (or Strawberries) – A Light & Colorful Dessert
Cherries in the Snow (or Strawberries) – A Light & Colorful Dessert
There’s a certain charm to desserts that are as visually delightful as they are delicious. “Cherries in the Snow” is one of those recipes that has been a classic for decades, evoking images of potlucks, holiday gatherings, and warm kitchens. Its layers of airy angel food cake, creamy whipped topping, and bright cherry (or strawberry) glaze make every bite feel like a celebration. I remember first encountering this dessert at a friend’s holiday dinner—the vivid red cherries against the pristine white cream made the dish practically glow on the table. It was impossible not to dig in.
What’s truly wonderful about this dessert is how it balances flavor and texture. The angel food cake is light and spongy, the cream cheese whipped topping is smooth and slightly tangy, and the cherry or strawberry glaze adds a sweet, fruity punch. It’s the kind of dessert that looks elegant but is incredibly simple to prepare. No baking beyond the cake itself (unless you’re making it from scratch), no complicated steps—just mix, layer, and chill. Perfect for anyone who wants a show-stopping dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a summer picnic, or just want something refreshing to enjoy after dinner, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures, colors, and flavors makes it memorable, while its simplicity keeps it approachable. This is a dessert that works beautifully in a large dish, perfect for sharing, yet is soft and inviting enough to feel like an indulgent treat for yourself.
Cherries In The Snow (or Strawberries)
Ingredients
1 angel food cake
2 pkgs. whipped topping (Dream Whip)
1 C. cold milk
1 C. sugar
2- 8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cans cherry pie filling (or strawberry glaze)
Directions
Prepare whipped topping with milk (have bowl and milk real cold; do not use raw milk). Beat in sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla.
Break angel food cake (remove all brown) into pieces.
Place pieces of cake and creamed mixture in alternate layers (starting with cake and ending with creamed mixture) into a 13″x9″x2″ dish.
Chill. Cover with cherry pie filling (or strawberry glaze).
Colorful and yummy!
Tips and Variations
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Whipped topping preparation: Make sure the milk is very cold. This ensures the whipped topping sets properly and becomes light and fluffy.
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Cake choice: Angel food cake works best because of its airy texture, but you can also experiment with sponge cake for a slightly different consistency.
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Fruit variations: While cherry pie filling is classic, strawberry glaze or even mixed berry compote can give a fresh twist.
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Layering ideas: For a more decorative presentation, sprinkle a few whole cherries or halved strawberries between layers for extra visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert on warm days.
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Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a light afternoon treat.
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Great for potlucks and family gatherings because it can be made in a large dish and slices beautifully for multiple servings.
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Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Storage Tips
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cream and fruit topping stay fresh, and the cake absorbs just enough moisture to stay tender.
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Freezing: While not recommended for long-term storage, you can freeze individual portions for a short time if necessary. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Dream Whip?
Yes! Just ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds the layers together.
2. Can this dessert be made in individual servings?
Absolutely. Use small glass cups or jars to create layered parfaits.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better if chilled for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. What if I don’t like cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone or whipped cream cheese blend for a milder taste.
