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Cherries in the Snow Dessert

Cherries in the Snow Dessert

Cherries in the Snow Dessert is a light, creamy, and fruity treat that perfectly balances the tartness of cherries with sweet, fluffy whipped cream. Layered with soaked angel food or sponge cake, this nostalgic dessert is easy to assemble and perfect for family gatherings or casual occasions, delivering a refreshing and visually appealing experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh or Canned Cherries (about 2 cups, pitted and halved if fresh; syrup reserved if canned)
  • Whipped Cream (2 cups heavy cream)
  • Sugar (2 tablespoons powdered sugar for the cream; additional to taste)
  • Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Angel Food Cake or Sponge Cake (6 to 8 ounces, cut into cubes or slices)
  • Cherry Juice or Syrup (from reserved canned cherries or about 1/4 cup cherry juice)

Optional Ingredients and Variations

  • Slivered Almonds or Crushed Cookies (for added crunch)
  • Melted Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Chips (for chocolate twist)
  • Other Fruits (mixed berries or peaches as alternatives)
  • Cherry Liqueur or Brandy (1 to 2 tablespoons for alcohol-infused version)
  • Coconut or Almond-based Whipped Cream (for dairy-free option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cherries: Pit and halve fresh cherries or drain canned cherries, reserving the syrup. This allows the cherries to be layered easily while using the syrup to soak the cake or add extra flavor.
  2. Whip the Cream: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping 2 cups of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy whipped cream base.
  3. Cut and Soak the Cake: Cut angel food cake or sponge cake into cubes or slices. Lightly soak these pieces in cherry syrup or juice to infuse moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
  4. Layer the Dessert: In a trifle bowl or individual glasses, alternate layers of soaked cake, whipped cream, and cherries. Continue layering until the container is filled, finishing with a generous layer of whipped cream and a garnish of whole cherries.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the cake soften. Serve chilled, optionally garnish with shaved white chocolate or mint leaves for extra freshness.

Notes

  • Use cold ingredients and chilled mixing equipment for best whipped cream texture.
  • Adjust sugar amount based on tartness of cherries and personal preference.
  • Layer neatly with clean edges for an attractive presentation.
  • Make the dessert a day ahead to allow flavors to meld for enhanced taste.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze soaked cake and cherries separately if needed; whip fresh cream before assembling.
  • Do not reheat dessert as it will affect the whipped cream texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherries dessert, whipped cream dessert, angel food cake dessert, layered cherry dessert, no bake dessert, summer dessert, fruit and cream dessert