Introduction
This Cherry Almond Cream Dessert is a delicious no-bake treat made with soft cake, sweet cherries, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. Finished with sliced almonds, every bite combines fruity sweetness with a smooth, creamy texture. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, and special occasions.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Chilling Time | 4 hours |
| Total Time | 4 hours 25 minutes |
| Servings | 12 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cooking Method | No-bake assembly |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare without turning on the oven.
- Combines juicy cherries with smooth vanilla cream.
- Perfect for making ahead of parties and family dinners.
- Beautiful layers make an impressive dessert.
- Sliced almonds add a delicate crunch.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Angel food cake or vanilla sponge cake | 1 prepared cake, about 10 oz |
| Cherry pie filling | 2 cans (21 oz each) |
| Instant vanilla pudding mix | 2 packages (3.4 oz each) |
| Cold milk | 3 cups |
| Whipped topping, thawed | 1 container (8 oz) |
| Sliced almonds | ½ cup |
| Almond extract | ¼ teaspoon, optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the cake: Cut the angel food cake or sponge cake into bite-sized cubes.
2. Make the pudding: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Stir in the almond extract if desired.
3. Prepare the cherries: Open the cherry pie filling and stir gently to distribute the cherries evenly throughout the filling.
4. Create the first layer: Arrange half of the cake cubes in the bottom of a 9 × 13-inch glass baking dish.
5. Add the cherry filling: Spread one can of cherry pie filling evenly over the cake layer.
6. Add the creamy layer: Spoon half of the vanilla pudding over the cherries and spread gently.
7. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining cake cubes, the second can of cherry filling, and the remaining pudding.
8. Finish with whipped topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface.
9. Add the almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for a nutty flavor and attractive finish.
10. Chill and serve: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving so the layers can set and the flavors can blend.
Best Tips
- Use cold milk to help the instant pudding thicken properly.
- Chill the dessert overnight for an even better texture.
- Spread each layer gently to keep the layers distinct.
- Toast the sliced almonds lightly for extra flavor, then cool them before adding.
- Use a glass baking dish to show off the colorful layers.
Best Ingredient Options
- Cake: Angel food cake gives a light texture, while vanilla sponge cake creates a slightly richer dessert.
- Cherry filling: Regular or reduced-sugar cherry pie filling can be used.
- Pudding: Cheesecake-flavored pudding is a delicious alternative to vanilla.
- Whipped topping: Homemade whipped cream can replace store-bought topping.
- Almonds: Chopped pecans or toasted coconut can be used instead.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Dessert: Add a thin layer of chocolate shavings between the cake and cream.
- Black Forest Style: Use chocolate cake instead of vanilla cake.
- Berry Cream Dessert: Replace the cherry filling with strawberry or blueberry pie filling.
- Almond Vanilla Dessert: Add a little extra almond extract for a stronger almond flavor.
- Individual Dessert Cups: Assemble the layers in small glasses for parties and gatherings.
What to Serve With
Serve this chilled dessert with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk. It also pairs beautifully with fresh cherries and other fresh fruit.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare the dessert up to 24 hours before serving. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready. For the freshest presentation, add the sliced almonds shortly before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly. Keep refrigerated and enjoy within 3 days for the best quality.
Reheating
This dessert should be served cold. Reheating is not recommended because it can soften the whipped topping and affect the creamy layers.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended because the pudding and whipped topping may separate or become watery after thawing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm milk, which can affect the pudding’s consistency.
- Skipping the chilling time, leaving the layers too soft.
- Adding too much liquid from the cherry filling.
- Overmixing the pudding, which can make it less smooth.
- Adding warm toasted almonds, which may soften the topping.
Nutrition Estimate
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sugar | 35 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on the cake, pudding, cherry filling, and whipped topping brands used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert the night before?
Yes. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight for convenient serving.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes. Whip cold heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then spread it over the dessert.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?
Yes, but cook the pitted cherries with sugar and a little cornstarch until thickened, then cool completely before assembling.
Why is my dessert too soft?
It may need more chilling time, or the pudding may not have thickened enough. Make sure to measure the milk accurately.
Can I make individual servings?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in small dessert cups or jars and refrigerate before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Almond Cream Dessert is a simple, crowd-pleasing treat with sweet cherries, fluffy cake, smooth vanilla pudding, and a creamy topping finished with crunchy almonds. With no baking required and plenty of make-ahead convenience, it’s a wonderful addition to holiday tables, potlucks, and family celebrations.