Dark Cherry Crunch
A luscious cherry crumb dessert featuring sweet cherry filling topped with a buttery cake-like crumble, perfect for gatherings and those craving fruity comfort desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine sugar and cornstarch. Stir in cherries, juice, and red food coloring.
- Pour the cherry mixture into a 9-inch square pan.
- Combine dry cake mix and melted butter or margarine until crumbly. Sprinkle over the cherry filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cherry mixture. If you don't have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but it may slightly alter the texture. Ensure the cherries are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in your dish. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cherries from other desserts, like Baked (Or Fried) Apple Pies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a generous dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Cheddar Vegetable Medley for a balanced meal. For an elegant touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve with coffee cream for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Serve warm to enjoy the crunchy topping at its best.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dark Cherry Crunch contains roughly 256 calories, with 1g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% 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 canned?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but ensure to pit and slice them before mixing. You may need to adjust the sugar since fresh cherries can vary in sweetness. Using fresh cherries will give a fresher flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Dark Cherry Crunch.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Duncan Hines cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Additionally, ensure that the cornstarch you use is certified gluten-free. This modification allows you to enjoy this dessert while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
What can I do if I want a less sweet dessert?
To reduce sweetness, consider cutting down the sugar in the cherry mixture by half or using unsweetened cherries. You can also opt for a sugar-free cake mix, which will help balance the flavors without sacrificing the dessert's essence.
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).