Cheerio Pudding
Cheerio Pudding offers a nostalgic, fruity dessert with cherry and almond flavors, topped with a golden, risen batter. Perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a pudding pan.
- Mix the sugar, flour, salt, baking powder, and milk into a batter.
- Pour the batter over the melted butter.
- Bring water, sugar, cherries, and almond extract to a boil.
- Pour the cherry mixture on top of the batter.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until the pudding rises to the top and browns.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract is a great substitute. You can also use other canned fruits like peaches or blueberries for a different twist. Ensure your cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheerio Pudding warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or a scoop of your favorite sorbet. For a comforting dessert, consider serving it alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. Browse more American recipes for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Cheerio Pudding to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be a delightful treat even after a couple of days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheerio Pudding contains roughly 575 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but make sure to pit and slice them first. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fresh cherries, as canned cherries are often packed in syrup.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works well. Just ensure it is melted before mixing with the batter for the best results.
How can I make this pudding gluten-free?
To make this Cheerio Pudding gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check that your baking powder is also gluten-free to ensure the dish remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).