Easy Cherry Crunch
A quick and easy dessert featuring layers of cherry pie filling, crushed pineapple, buttery topping, and cake mix, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the crushed pineapple with juice, cherry pie filling, yellow cake mix, and butter into a 13 x 9-inch pan in the order listed.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking. If you don’t have yellow cake mix, a vanilla or white cake mix can work just as well. You can also substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a different twist. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Easy Cherry Crunch warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, making it a great choice for summer gatherings. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside *Baked Noodles for a unique meal combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through, or you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This ensures the topping stays crunchy while the filling remains warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cherry Crunch contains roughly 1088 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 102g 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 add sugar and a thickening agent like cornstarch to achieve a similar consistency and sweetness as the pie filling. Cook the cherries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch on the stove until thickened before layering them in the pan.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even baking.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Easy Cherry Crunch recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond the butter. If you're looking for a vegan version, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
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).