1. Prepare the Angel Food Cake: Creating the Base Layer

1. Cube the Cake: Using a sharp knife (a serrated knife works well), carefully cut the pre-baked angel food cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. Set Aside: Set the cake cubes aside while you prepare the cream cheese filling.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: The Creamy, Dreamy Layer

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Sugar, Milk, and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the beaten cream cheese. Continue to mix on medium speed until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

3. Fold in Cool Whip: Adding Lightness and Volume

1. Add Cool Whip: Gently stir the thawed Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture until it’s just incorporated.
   • Tip: Use a rubber spatula and a folding motion to avoid deflating the Cool Whip. You want to keep the mixture light and airy.
2. Do not overmix: Overmixing can cause the Cool Whip to lose its volume.

4. Assemble the Dessert: Building the Layers of Flavor

1. Choose Your Dish: You can assemble this dessert in a trifle dish for a beautiful presentation or in a 9×13 inch pan for easier serving.
2. Layer Cake Cubes: Place a layer of the angel food cake cubes evenly over the bottom of your chosen dish. This will form the base of your dessert.
3. Spread Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of cake cubes. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
4. Add Cherry Pie Filling: Spoon half of the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining cake cubes, cream cheese mixture, and cherry pie filling, ending with a layer of cherry pie filling on top.

5. Chill and Set: Allowing the Flavors to Meld

1. Cover: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.

6. Serve and Enjoy: A Cool and Creamy Delight

1. Scoop and Serve: To serve, scoop out portions of the Cherries in the Snow so that each serving contains all the delicious layers.
2. Garnish (Optional): You can garnish each serving with extra Cool Whip, a fresh cherry, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, if desired.