Cherry Carnival
A moist cherry dessert with bright sour cherries and tender crumb, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy family servings topped with cherry sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the flour, baking powder, salt, shortening, sugar, egg, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in well-drained sour cherries.
- Pour the batter into a 9-inch square pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve warm, covered with cherry sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. You can substitute butter for shortening if desired. If sour cherries are unavailable, try using sweet cherries or even frozen ones, adjusting sugar to taste. Ensure cherries are well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too wet. This recipe can be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Cherry Carnival warm, topped with a drizzle of cherry sauce or whipped cream for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a balanced meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad, such as Fat-Free Guilt Free Potato Salad, to complement the sweetness of the dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Carnival contains roughly 401 calories, with 7g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1061mg per serving (46% 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 frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the right consistency of the cake.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
What can I serve with Cherry Carnival?
Cherry Carnival is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs well with a light fruit salad or a refreshing drink like iced tea.
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).