Cherry Cake Dessert
A delicious layered cherry dessert with crunchy nuts, pineapple, and cake mix topping, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks with its sweet and fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple (do not drain) in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle the white cake mix evenly over the fruit mixture.
- Dot one stick of butter on top of the cake mix.
- Sprinkle crushed walnuts on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Top with Cool Whip before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a butter cake mix instead of white cake mix. If you're looking to make it gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free cake mix. You can also replace the crushed walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. Experiment with adding a splash of almond extract for a subtle twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cherry cake dessert is best served warm, topped with a generous dollop of Cool Whip. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of whipped cream. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving it alongside Lora'S Bran Muffins or as a sweet finish to a summer barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry cake dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through. You can also serve it cold, topped with Cool Whip for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cake Dessert contains roughly 308 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
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?
While fresh cherries can be used, you will need to cook them down with sugar and some cornstarch to create a filling that mimics the texture and flavor of cherry pie filling. This may alter the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it while baking.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this cherry cake dessert vegan by using a vegan cake mix and substituting the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Make sure to check that the cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple are also vegan-friendly.
What can I serve this cake dessert with?
This cherry cake dessert pairs well with a variety of sides. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Christmas Eve Salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert option. It also works well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
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).