Darned If I Know Cake
A moist, tropical-flavored cake featuring pineapple, cherry filling, coconut, and nuts, perfect for dessert or special occasions, appealing to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan, mix the crushed pineapple with the cherry pie filling.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the fruit mixture.
- Sprinkle coconut over the cake mix.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the coconut.
- Thinly slice the margarine and place it evenly over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the fruit mixture. If you don’t have banana cake mix, a yellow cake mix can also work well. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. Ensure the margarine is evenly distributed to create a moist texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with Red Party Punch for a festive gathering. You can also enjoy it with a side of Dockside Summer Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Darned If I Know Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Darned If I Know Cake contains roughly 1204 calories, with 14g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (30% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fruit instead of canned?
While canned crushed pineapple and cherry pie filling provide a convenient base, you can use fresh fruit for a homemade touch. Just ensure the fresh fruit is well-prepared and sweetened to your liking, as this will affect the overall flavor and texture of the cake.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer a butter taste, you can substitute the margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Just be sure to melt it before drizzling over the cake mix for even distribution.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste when you serve it the next day.
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).