Cherry Crunch Or Cherry Cake
A delightful cherry dessert featuring a sweet batter layered over tart cherries with a crunchy sugar topping, perfect for family gatherings and cherry lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle about 1/2 cup sugar into a skillet.
- Pour cherries over the sugar in the skillet.
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, melted shortening, egg, and baking powder to make the batter.
- Pour the batter over the cherries in the skillet.
- Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you prefer a sweeter crunch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also use thawed frozen cherries or canned cherries if fresh ones aren't available. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with Cherry-Cheese Turnovers for a delightful dessert spread. For a more balanced meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a light, fruity yogurt to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in an oven set to 350°F until heated through. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh but can still be tasty the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Crunch Or Cherry Cake contains roughly 241 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 other fruits instead of cherries?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or apples. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose. For a tropical twist, try using pineapple or mango.
Is it necessary to use shortening?
While shortening creates a tender texture, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and layer it with the cherries, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
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).