A soft, layered vanilla cake baked and assembled into a rich, creamy dessert that truly lives up to its heavenly name.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 25 min
Cook: 35 min
Total: 1 h 10 min (plus chilling)
Ingredients
For the cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk
For the layers
1 can cherry pie filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking dish. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light, then add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk until a smooth batter forms.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Once cooled, spread an even layer of cherry filling over the entire cake, allowing it to gently settle into the surface.
Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then whip in the heavy cream until thick and fluffy. Spread this cream generously over the cherries.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts (approx)
Calories: 460 | Protein: 7g | Carbs: 52g | Fat: 25g
Quick Facts
• one-pan
• cold weather comfort
• family approved
• budget friendly
• freezer friendly
Tips
Let the cake cool completely before layering to keep the cream smooth and stable.
Chill the cake well so slices come out clean and defined.
Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture and best structure.
Variations
Swap cherry filling for blueberry or raspberry filling to keep the same structure with a different fruit profile. For another fruity twist, try this strawberry brownies recipe that brings a bold pop of color and sweetness.
Add a thin middle layer of whipped cream between two cake layers for an even more indulgent version.
Lightly brush the cake with vanilla milk before adding cherries to enhance moisture without making it soggy. If you’re craving a more flaky, layered experience, explore these flaky puff pastry desserts as a creative alternative.