Cherry Or Berry Dessert
A moist and flavorful cherry or berry dessert featuring a tender cake base topped with sweet fruit filling. The almond extract adds a subtle nuttiness, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Easy to prepare and delightfully comforting, it pairs well with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in almond extract.
- Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until smooth.
- Butter a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Spoon cherry pie filling evenly into 16 spots over the batter.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract alongside the almond extract. If you're out of cherry pie filling, you can substitute with other fruit fillings like blueberry or raspberry for a different twist. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, and try not to overmix the batter to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is delightful served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination or enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. It also makes a great addition to brunch spreads, complementing other sweet treats like the Breakfast Cake or Super Easy Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer individual servings to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, place a portion in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through, being careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Or Berry Dessert contains roughly 257 calories, with 6g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% 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, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a filling-like consistency. This will enhance the flavor and give you a more homemade feel, though it may require a bit more time.
What if I don't have almond extract?
If you don't have almond extract, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. You could also use a hint of coconut extract for a tropical twist, but be mindful that this will change the overall taste of the dessert.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the dessert a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and reheat if desired for the best texture.
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).