Cherry-Pineapple Strudel
Cherry-Pineapple Strudel combines sweet cherries, tangy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and a buttery cake topping for a delightful dessert. Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Easy to prepare, this dish offers a unique twist on traditional fruit desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch cake pan with butter.
- Spread the can of crushed pineapple (do not drain) in the greased cake pan.
- Spread cherry pie filling over the pineapple layer.
- Sprinkle yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cake mix.
- Cut butter into small pieces and distribute on top of the cake mix and pecans.
- Bake for 1 hour, being careful not to burn the pecans.
- Serve hot or cool as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut along with the pecans. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with crushed graham crackers for a similar texture. Make sure to spread the cake mix evenly to achieve a uniform bake, and keep an eye on the pecans to prevent burning during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry-Pineapple Strudel is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. It pairs beautifully with Chewy Turtle Cake for a dessert spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a sweet ending to a barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, ensuring the topping remains crunchy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Pineapple Strudel contains roughly 441 calories, with 4g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 25g 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 substitute fresh cherries for cherry pie filling. Just pit and slice about 2 cups of fresh cherries and mix them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a similar filling. This will provide a fresher taste and texture.
What can I use if I don't have a 13 x 9-inch pan?
If you don't have a 13 x 9-inch pan, you can use two 8-inch square pans or one larger pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as smaller pans may require less time to bake through.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert ahead of time. Assemble the layers and cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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).