I love sharing this Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe because it’s such a delightful treat that feels like biting into a fluffy cloud with a burst of juicy cherries. The combination of light angel food cake with luscious cherry pie filling and creamy whipped topping always brings a smile to my face. It’s deceptively simple but looks and tastes like you’ve spent hours crafting a special dessert, making it one of my go-to recipes for impressing friends and family.
Why You'll Love This Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe
One of the things I adore most about this Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe is the contrast of flavors and textures. The angel food cake is incredibly airy, delicate, and subtly sweet, which perfectly balances the rich and tangy cherry pie filling. Adding the whipped topping on top creates a luscious creaminess that melts in your mouth. It’s like a little celebration with each bite!
What makes this recipe especially appealing to me is how easy it is to put together. Using a boxed angel food cake mix means you skip the tricky parts like whipping egg whites to the perfect stiffness, but you still end up with a fantastic result that tastes like homemade. Plus, it comes together in about 40 minutes total, so it’s a quick dessert to whip up even on a busy day.
I find this cake to be perfect for all sorts of occasions — whether I’m hosting a summer barbecue, bringing something to a potluck, or just craving a light, sweet indulgence after dinner. It’s impressive enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight treat. The best part is knowing it stands out because of its airy texture and beautiful cherry topping that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Ingredients You'll Need
With just a few simple ingredients, this cake comes alive with every flavor and texture designed to make each bite heavenly. Each component complements the other, whether it’s the fluffy cake base or the vibrant cherry topping.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Angel food cake mix: The foundation of the cake, providing a light and airy texture that's key to the recipe.
- Cherry pie filling: Adds a sweet and tart burst of cherry flavor, making the cake vibrant and colorful.
- Whipped topping: Offers creamy richness that perfectly balances the cake and cherries, adding extra indulgence.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven exactly as instructed on the angel food cake mix package to ensure the right baking environment.
Step 2: Prepare the angel food cake batter according to the package instructions, mixing carefully to keep the batter light and airy.
Step 3: Pour the batter into a Bundt pan, smoothing it out evenly to ensure a uniform rise and perfect shape.
Step 4: Bake the cake for the time specified on the cake mix box, usually around 30 minutes, until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Step 5: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan; this helps it set properly and makes unmolding easier without breaking.
Step 6: Once cooled, gently remove the cake from the pan and place it on a serving plate.
Step 7: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cake, spreading it to cover the surface beautifully and evenly.
Step 8: Finish by liberally spreading the whipped topping over the cherries, creating a light, cloud-like cap that invites you to dive right in.
Servings and Timing
This Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe makes about 8 generous slices, perfect for a small gathering or family dessert. Prep time is incredibly short at about 10 minutes, with the baking taking roughly 30 minutes. Including cooling and assembling, the total time comes to around 40 minutes. The cooling step is important to let the cake firm up so you can get clean slices and maintain that beautiful fluffy texture.
How to Serve This Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe
When it comes to serving this cake, I like to keep it simple and elegant. It’s delicious on its own, but serving it with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a lovely crunch and a pop of fresh fruit flavor. I often garnish the top with a few whole cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar to make it extra special.
For drinks, I’m a big fan of pairing this cake with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a light fruity white wine, which complements the cherry flavor beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a cold sparkling lemonade or iced tea with a hint of mint makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
I recommend serving this cake chilled or at room temperature—chilling helps the whipped topping hold its shape longer and enhances the cherry filling’s flavor, but room temperature allows the cake’s airy texture to really shine. It’s an excellent dessert choice for summer parties, holiday dinners, or simply when you want something light yet decadent. Slice it into moderate pieces so everyone can savor every cloud-like bite.
Variations
I love experimenting with this Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe by swapping out different fruit toppings. Blueberry or raspberry pie filling work wonderfully for a fruity twist that’s equally vibrant. For a tropical flair, I’ve even tried pineapple tidbits with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, which was divine.
If you’re catering to dietary preferences, this cake can easily be made gluten-free by selecting a gluten-free angel food cake mix. For those avoiding dairy, swapping the whipped topping for a coconut-based whipped cream keeps it creamy and delicious without the dairy.
For a different texture, I sometimes lightly toast the angel food cake slices before adding the toppings. It creates a subtle caramelized flavor and a slightly crisp exterior that pairs nicely with the soft cake interior. Experimenting with homemade cherry sauce or fresh cherry compote instead of canned pie filling also elevates the cake to another level when you have more time.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftover Cherry Angel Cloud Cake, I recommend placing it in an airtight container to protect the whipped topping and cherry layer from drying out or absorbing fridge odors. Keep it refrigerated and consume within 2 to 3 days for the best flavor and texture. I find that the cake maintains its moistness well if stored properly.
Freezing
This cake isn’t the best candidate for freezing once it has the whipped topping and cherry filling on it, as these components don’t freeze and thaw well. However, you can freeze the angel food cake base if you prepare it in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it should keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it completely before adding the cherry topping and whipped cream fresh.
Reheating
Because this cake is light and airy with delicate toppings, reheating isn’t typically recommended. If you prefer the cake slightly warm, I suggest removing the cherry and whipped topping first and warming just the cake base gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. Then reassemble with cold toppings for the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can provide a wonderfully natural flavor. I suggest making a quick cherry compote by simmering fresh pitted cherries with a bit of sugar until they release their juices and thicken. This will mimic the texture and sweetness of pie filling.
Is it possible to make this cake completely from scratch?
Yes, you can make angel food cake from scratch by whipping egg whites, sugar, and flour, but it requires precise technique and time. For beginners or a quicker option, the boxed mix works beautifully without sacrificing taste or texture.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the Bundt pan?
I usually don’t grease the Bundt pan for angel food cake because the batter needs to cling to the sides to rise properly. Instead, I recommend ensuring the pan is clean and dry before pouring in the batter. After baking and cooling, gently run a thin knife around the edges to help release the cake.
Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping?
Definitely! Freshly whipped cream made with heavy cream and a touch of vanilla is a lovely alternative that adds richer flavor. Just whip it to soft peaks and spread it over the cherry topping just before serving to maintain its texture.
What should I do if the cake deflates after baking?
Angel food cake can deflate if it cools too quickly or is handled roughly. To prevent this, allow the cake to cool upside down in the pan to keep it lofty. Handle it gently when removing from the pan, and avoid storing it in a humid environment.
Conclusion
I truly believe this Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe is a hidden gem for anyone who loves light, fruity desserts that don’t take all day to prepare. It’s my go-to when I want something impressive yet simple, and it never fails to bring joy at the table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this cake as much as I do—it’s a sweet little cloud of happiness that everyone will adore!
Print
Cherry Angel Cloud Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherry Angel Cloud Cake is a light, fluffy dessert combining the airy texture of angel food cake with a sweet cherry topping and creamy whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, this dessert offers a burst of cherry flavor with every bite and is easy to prepare using a boxed angel food cake mix.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box angel food cake mix (follow package instructions for preparation)
- 1 can cherry pie filling (use a high-quality brand for best taste)
- 1 tub whipped topping (thaw before using)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven according to the temperature specified on the angel food cake mix package to ensure proper baking conditions.
- Prepare Cake Batter: Prepare the angel food cake mix as per the package instructions, usually involving whipping the mix with water until stiff peaks form.
- Bake Cake: Pour the prepared cake batter into a Bundt pan and bake as directed on the cake mix package for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature to maintain structure and prevent crumbling when removed.
- Add Toppings: Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the Bundt pan, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top, and finish by spreading the whipped topping before serving.
Notes
- This cake is perfect for summer gatherings and light desserts.
- You can substitute the cherry pie filling with any favorite fruit topping such as blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry for a different twist.
- Ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed and chilled for best texture.
- For a more decorative look, garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves if desired.
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