Cherry Mix Up
Cherry Mix Up is a delightful dessert featuring layers of cherry pie filling and pineapple topped with a cake mix crust, nuts, and butter. Baked until golden, it offers a comforting blend of fruity sweetness and rich, buttery flavors, perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread cherry pie filling in the bottom of a pan.
- Top with pineapple chunks and sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layer.
- Mix the cake mix with a fork to break up lumps.
- Add nuts to the mixture.
- Cut cold butter into pats and evenly distribute over the top of the mixture.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 46 to 60 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a sugar-free cake mix or replacing oleo with a vegan butter alternative. If you don't have nuts on hand, chopped oats or granola can add a nice crunch. To elevate the flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cherry pie filling. Mixing in some frozen cranberries can add a delightful tartness, making this dish reminiscent of seasonal favorites like Frozen Cranberry Banana Salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Mix Up is perfect as a dessert or sweet side dish at gatherings. Serve it warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with warm and spicy autumn punch for a cozy fall meal. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside savory dishes like Quick, Tasty Pork Chops.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help retain the crispness of the top layer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Mix Up contains roughly 212 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 16g 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?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them and possibly thicken the mixture with cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency to cherry pie filling. Cooking the cherries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice first can enhance their flavor and texture.
What type of cake mix works best for this recipe?
A classic yellow or white cake mix works best for this Cherry Mix Up, as it complements the fruit flavors. However, feel free to experiment with chocolate or spice cake mixes for a unique twist on the dessert.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).