Cherry Almond Dessert
A warm and fruity cherry almond dessert with a crunchy nut topping, perfect for family gatherings or casual dessert cravings with a delightful almond flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cherry pie filling, cinnamon, and almond extract in a bowl.
- Spread the cherry mixture in a greased 9 x 12-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the cherry filling.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix and sprinkle sliced nuts on top.
- Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cherry mixture. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract works as a great substitute. You can also experiment with different nuts or even use a combination of sliced almonds and walnuts for added texture. This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Almond Dessert warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving it alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It's perfect for gatherings or as a comforting dessert after dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help retain the dessert's crisp topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Almond Dessert contains roughly 721 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them to taste and possibly add a thickening agent like cornstarch to mimic the filling's consistency. Cook the cherries with sugar and a bit of water until they soften before using them in the recipe.
Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, which is readily available in stores. Just ensure that all other ingredients, especially the pie filling, are certified gluten-free to maintain the dessert's gluten-free status.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling and layer it with the cake mix and nuts a day in advance. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve; this will ensure the topping remains crispy and delicious.
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).