Cherry Blossom Dessert
A delightful cherry blossom dessert featuring a buttery oatmeal crust layered with cherry filling, offering a sweet, tart flavor perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, salt, and baking soda into a mixing bowl.
- Blend in brown sugar and oatmeal.
- Cut in the shortening until particles are the size of small peas.
- Press half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 12 x 8 x 2 or 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the crust.
- Add the remaining oatmeal mixture on top of the cherry filling.
- Press gently with a spoon.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F until golden brown.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or cold with cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, try substituting half the shortening with applesauce or yogurt. You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you prefer a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the oatmeal mixture. This dessert can be enhanced with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or cold, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. This Cherry Blossom Dessert pairs beautifully with Tropical Ice(Punch) for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Blossom Dessert contains roughly 398 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% 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! Simply pit and slice about 2 cups of fresh cherries and toss them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to thicken. This will give you a fresh and vibrant flavor in your dessert, making it even more delightful.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the shortening with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use a vegan-friendly pie filling. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that aligns with vegan recipes while still being indulgent.
How can I make this dessert more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider sprinkling powdered sugar on top before serving or garnishing with fresh mint leaves. You can also drizzle chocolate sauce over the squares for an added touch of elegance, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.
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).