Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe

Indulge in a delightful trip down memory lane with the heavenly dessert known as Cherries in the Snow. This classic treat features layers of creamy goodness, fluffy angel food cake, and vibrant cherries that create a stunning contrast. The simplicity of this recipe belies its impressive presentation, making it a perfect go-to for any gathering, whether planned or impromptu.

I first encountered Cherries in the Snow at a summer potluck, where it quickly became the star of the show, disappearing in a blink of an eye. Its sweet allure and beautiful aesthetics make it a favorite among both young and old alike. Plus, with the added convenience of being able to prepare it in advance, this dessert is a lifesaver for busy hosts looking to impress with minimal effort.

For an extra touch of nostalgia and flavor, be sure to follow the wise advice of using quality cherry pie filling just like Grandma recommended. The generous amount of cherries truly elevates the dish, both in appearance and taste. So, go ahead and whip up this timeless dessert, and watch as it disappears just as fast as it did at that memorable potluck. Cherries in the Snow is sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe repertoire.

Quick Benefits

• Impressive Presentation: The contrast of red cherries against the fluffy white cream creates a stunning visual presentation that impresses guests.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dessert improves with time in the refrigerator, making it ideal for preparing in advance and can be made up to 24 hours before serving without loss of quality.
• Versatile Adaptability: Easily adapt the dessert to different seasons by switching out the cherry topping for fresh strawberries, apple pie filling, cranberry sauce, or other seasonal fruit options.
• Lighter Option: Use light cream cheese and fat-free Cool Whip for a lower-calorie version without compromising much on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The contrast of red cherries against the white cream creates a stunning visual appeal that will impress your guests.
• Nostalgic Flavor: This dessert brings back childhood memories with its sweet layers of fluffy cream, angel food cake, and bright cherries.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this dessert is incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or potlucks.
• Make-ahead Option: The dessert improves with time in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance without any quality loss.
• Adaptable: While cherry is the classic topping, you can easily adapt the dessert to different seasons by using strawberries, apple pie filling, or cranberry sauce.
• Lighter Version: You can opt for a lighter version by using light cream cheese and fat-free Cool Whip, reducing the calorie count significantly without compromising the taste.
• Storage: Store the dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a convenient make-ahead option for busy days.
• Versatile Substitutions: You can substitute fresh cherries, make homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip, and even use pound cake or sponge cake as alternatives for a different texture and flavor.

Ingredients for Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 12 ounces Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
• 1 pre-baked 9-inch angel food cake
• 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup 2% milk
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

How to Make Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy using a hand mixer. Mix in 1/4 cup of milk until smooth, then add the remaining 1/4 cup milk and mix well.

Step 2: Fold in Cool Whip

Carefully mix in the Cool Whip until well combined with the cream cheese mixture.

Step 3: Combine Cake and Mixture

Break angel food cake into small pieces and gently fold into whipped mixture until evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble Dessert

Transfer the cake batter into a 9×13 glass baking dish, then spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Add Cherry Layer

Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the cake mixture. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Storage Tips

After preparing Cherries in the Snow, you can store the dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is best to keep it chilled until you are ready to serve. The dessert actually improves with time as the flavors meld together beautifully while it chills, making it a convenient option for preparing in advance. This dish holds up well and maintains its texture thanks to the structure provided by the angel food cake and the stable whipped topping.

To lighten up this dessert, consider using light cream cheese and fat-free Cool Whip as substitutes. These changes reduce the calorie count significantly with minimal impact on taste. If you prefer homemade whipped cream over Cool Whip, you can easily swap in sweetened whipped cream stabilized with a bit of gelatin to maintain the dessert’s structure. Additionally, while cherry is the classic topping, you can customize this dessert for different seasons by using alternatives like fresh strawberries with glaze, apple pie filling with cinnamon, or cranberry sauce for a festive touch during winter holidays.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this dessert, consider using light cream cheese and fat-free Cool Whip as suggested in the article. This can significantly reduce the calorie count without compromising much on taste.

For a different flavor twist, you can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit options based on the season. For example, in summer, try fresh sliced strawberries mixed with strawberry glaze. In the fall, apple pie filling with a sprinkle of cinnamon can create a warm and cozy alternative. During the winter holidays, cranberry sauce can give a festive touch with its vibrant ruby color.

If you prefer to make your own whipped cream instead of using Cool Whip, you can substitute it by whipping heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This homemade whipped cream can add a rich and fresh flavor to the dessert. Remember, while pound cake or sponge cake can be used as alternatives to the angel food cake, the texture and taste may vary slightly.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering individual portions of Cherries in the Snow in elegant glass jars or dessert cups. This not only creates a beautiful presentation but also allows guests to see the distinct layers of cream, cake, and cherries. Top each serving with a fresh cherry or a sprinkle of grated white chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.

Another fun idea is to turn Cherries in the Snow into a trifle by layering the cream, cake, and cherries in a large trifle dish. Repeat the layers to create a stunning dessert centerpiece for a party or gathering. Garnish the top with swirls of whipped cream, maraschino cherries, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a show-stopping finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

FAQs for Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can! Substitute fresh cherries by creating a simple syrup to complement them, or use them as-is for a fresher taste.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dessert a day in advance and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Can I substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream?

You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream by whipping heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until peaks form.

Can I use a different type of cake instead of angel food cake?

Yes, you can use pound cake or sponge cake as alternatives, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Conclusion

As you embark on making your own Cherries in the Snow, remember that this dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but a delight for the taste buds. The creamy layers, airy angel food cake, and sweet cherry topping come together in perfect harmony, creating a dessert that is both nostalgic and impressive.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy the process of creating this beautiful and delicious Cherries in the Snow dessert. Your friends and family will be amazed at your culinary skills, and you’ll take pride in serving such a delightful treat.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of Cherries in the Snow, and let the layers of cream, cake, and cherries transport you to a world of sweetness and joy. Embrace the simplicity of this recipe, make it your own with personal touches, and savor every bite of this timeless dessert. Cherries in the Snow will always hold a special place in your heart and on your table, bringing smiles and satisfaction with each serving. Cheers to creating memories and indulging in the magic of homemade delights!

Delicious Snowy Cherries Recipe

“Layers of fluffy cream, angel food cake, and cherries create a stunning dessert that’s easy to make and always impresses guests.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time20 Minutes

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time20 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings15 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 12 ounces Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
• 1 pre-baked 9-inch angel food cake
• 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup 2% milk
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

Instructions

1. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy using a hand mixer. Mix in 1/4 cup of milk until smooth, then add the remaining 1/4 cup milk and mix well.
2. Fold in Cool Whip: Carefully mix in the Cool Whip until well combined with the cream cheese mixture.
3. Combine Cake and Mixture: Break angel food cake into small pieces and gently fold into whipped mixture until evenly incorporated.
4. Assemble Dessert: Transfer the cake batter into a 9×13 glass baking dish, then spread it out evenly.
5. Add Cherry Layer: Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the cake mixture. Refrigerate until ready to serve.