Name: Cherries in the Snow
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Sauce:; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (minced, optional); 2 tsp cornstarch; Shrimp:; 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails left intact optional); 2 tbsp cooking oil (divided); Aromatics:; 3 green onions (chopped, white and light green parts); 2-3 garlic cloves (finely minced); 2 tsp grated fresh ginger (use microplane grater)

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Cherries in the Snow is a light and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling with a creamy, fluffy cream cheese mixture and the delicate texture of angel food cake. This no-bake dessert is quick to prepare, requiring only 45 minutes of your time, including chilling, and is perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a sweet, crowd-pleasing treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and fluffy. The smooth cream cheese mixture, combined with the lightness of angel food cake, creates a dessert that isn’t too heavy, while the cherry pie filling adds a burst of fruity flavor that is both sweet and tart. It’s simple to make, requires no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a go-to treat for busy occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can substitute different fruit fillings depending on the season or your preferences. Cherries in the Snow

Ingredients

12 ounces block-style cream cheese (room temperature)
¾ cup powdered sugar (sifted)
⅓ cup whole milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
8 ounces frozen whipped topping (thawed, Cool Whip brand used)
1 pre-baked angel food cake (torn into ¾-1 inch pieces, 15 ounces, 9-inch store-bought cake)
42 ounces (2 – 21 ounce cans) cherry pie filling (Comstock brand used)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and free of lumps.
Add Powdered Sugar:
Add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese and beat until fully incorporated, making sure the mixture is smooth.
Add Milk and Vanilla:
Pour in the whole milk and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until everything is smooth and fluffy. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even blending.
Fold in Whipped Topping:
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until there are no white streaks and everything is fully incorporated.
Fold in Angel Food Cake:
Gently fold the torn pieces of angel food cake into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the cake too much.
Layer in Baking Dish:
Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a 9×13 baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Add Cherry Pie Filling:
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese mixture, spreading it out gently to cover the top.
Chill:
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to combine and the cream cheese layer to set.
Serve:
Scoop and serve your delicious Cherries in the Snow! Enjoy this light, sweet, and cool dessert.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Fruit Options: Instead of cherry pie filling, you can use other fruit fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berries for a different flavor twist.
Make It Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lighter version of this dessert.
Add Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top before serving.
Use Angel Food Cake Substitute: You can swap the angel food cake with sponge cake or even a graham cracker crust for a different base.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served cold, so it’s perfect for preparing ahead of time and keeping in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping. Just make sure it’s well-whipped and stable so it can hold up when mixed with the cream cheese mixture.

Can I make this dessert without angel food cake?

You can replace the angel food cake with a sponge cake or ladyfingers, or even a graham cracker crust for a no-bake alternative.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Fresh cherries can be used, but they may not provide the same level of sweetness and thickness as pie filling. You may need to add some sugar or cornstarch to make a thicker topping.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?

You can prepare this dessert up to 2 days in advance. The flavors will continue to meld and improve as it chills in the fridge.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the whipped topping and cream cheese mixture. This dessert is best served fresh from the refrigerator.

Can I make this dessert with a gluten-free cake?

Yes, you can substitute the angel food cake with a gluten-free version, or use gluten-free sponge cake.

How long should I chill this dessert?

For best results, chill it for at least 30 minutes, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours to allow the cream cheese layer to set and the flavors to meld.

Can I use a different type of pie filling?

Yes, you can use any type of pie filling, such as blueberry, strawberry, or apple, depending on your preference.

Can I serve this without the cherry topping?

Yes, you can serve it without the cherry topping and instead add fresh fruit, a drizzle of chocolate, or even caramel sauce for a different flavor.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

To make this dessert dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and cake alternatives, ensuring they match the texture and flavor of the original ingredients.

Conclusion

Cherries in the Snow is a refreshing, light dessert that’s both simple to make and absolutely delicious. With its fluffy cream cheese mixture, angel food cake, and fruity cherry topping, this treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a sweet snack, it’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. Enjoy!

Cherries in the Snow