Easy Cherry Struedel
A deliciously easy cherry streusel dessert featuring cherry pie filling, buttery cake mix, and crunchy pecans or oatmeal, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings quickly.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour cherry pie filling into the bottom of a cake pan.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the cherries without stirring.
- Melt butter and pour it over the cake mix layer.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or dry oatmeal over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Let cool slightly or serve warm with ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using almond extract in addition to the cherry pie filling. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or slivered almonds can be great substitutes. To lighten the dish, you could use a sugar-free cake mix or opt for a gluten-free version. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and can be a delightful alternative to more complex desserts like Quick And Easy 'Batter' Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Cherry Strudel warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a full meal experience, consider serving it alongside Cook'S Salad for a refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the strudel.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the crisp texture of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cherry Struedel contains roughly 2100 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 230g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1315mg per serving (57% 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 pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to pie filling. This will enhance the flavor and ensure the strudel has the right texture.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using a sugar-free cake mix and reducing the amount of butter used. You can also substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative for a vegan option. Adding more nuts or oats can also increase the fiber content.
Can I freeze this strudel?
Yes, you can freeze the strudel before baking it. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).