Vintage Cherries In The Snow

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A retro dessert straight from Grandma’s recipe box, Vintage Cherries in the Snow is everything a nostalgic sweet should be: soft, fluffy, fruity, and decadently creamy. This no-bake classic layers angel food cake, a silky cream cheese filling, and vibrant cherry pie filling for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is irresistible.

Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holidays, or just a feel-good treat during the week, this dessert is all about simple prep with stunning results. It tastes like a cherry cheesecake had a love child with a cloud. One bite and you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Vintage Cherries In The Snow Dessert

• It’s no-bake and ultra easy
• Light, airy, yet decadently creamy
• Crowd-pleasing and photo-worthy
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties

What Kind of Cake Should I Use?

Angel food cake is traditional for this recipe. Its airy, slightly sweet sponge is the perfect contrast to the rich cream cheese layer and tart cherry topping. You can use a store-bought angel food cake or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before layering.

Ingredients

• Angel food cake: Provides a light, fluffy structure that soaks up the cream and cherry juices.
• Cream cheese: The rich, tangy base of the creamy layer.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture without grittiness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whips into a luscious topping to fold into the cream cheese.
• Cherry pie filling: Sweet, tart, and jewel-toned — the vibrant finishing layer.

How To Make the Vintage Cherries In The Snow

Step 1: Cube the Cake

Slice the angel food cake into 1-inch cubes. Gently place half of the cubes into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Then gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Layer it Up

Spread half of the cream mixture over the cake layer. Add the remaining cake cubes, followed by the remaining cream. Finish by spooning the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and slice with a sharp knife for clean layers.

How to Serve This Classic Dessert

This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or family get-togethers. Serve it chilled with a big spoon and let those layers show off. It pairs perfectly with a fresh cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Leftovers

Store Cherries in the Snow covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Since it’s cream-based, avoid letting it sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. It’s not freezer-friendly as the texture of the cream and cake can break down after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cherry topping instead of canned?
Absolutely! A homemade cherry compote made with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice works beautifully.

What other fruit toppings work well?
Blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie fillings are all delicious alternatives if you want to mix things up.

Can I make this a day ahead?
Yes, in fact, it’s better when made ahead! The chilling time helps the layers settle and flavors develop.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip or another whipped topping for a shortcut version. Just fold it into the cream cheese mixture as instructed.

Is this dessert gluten-free?
Only if you use a gluten-free angel food cake. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Retro Twist?

If you love this Vintage Cherries in the Snow, here are more deliciously nostalgic treats to try next:

• Cream Cheese Cranberry Loaf for fruity tang with a holiday flair.
• White Chocolate Cherry Fudge for a no-bake cherry delight.
• Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies if you love coconut and chocolate in one bite.
• Apple Bars for cozy, cinnamony comfort.
• Homemade Nougat Bars for a chewy, nostalgic candy-style dessert.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a different fruit topping? Did you try homemade cake or store-bought?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For even more retro-inspired desserts and quick no-bake ideas, follow me on Life With Livia.

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