Festive Cherry Dessert(Aka: Dump Cake)
A quick and indulgent dessert featuring cherry pie filling and pineapple topped with a buttery cake mix, coconut, and nuts. Baked until golden, it's perfect for festive gatherings and family treats, offering a delightful combination of fruity sweetness and crunchy textures that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, combine cherry pie filling and pineapple with juice.
- Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly over the fruit mixture.
- Top with coconut and chopped nuts.
- Pour melted margarine evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using fresh cherries or other fruits like peaches or blueberries instead of canned cherry pie filling and pineapple. You can also substitute shredded almond or pecans for chopped nuts based on your preference. If you're seeking a lighter option, try a sugar-free cake mix and margarine. Don’t skip the coconut; it adds a delightful texture that enhances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This festive cherry dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can serve it warm or let it cool to room temperature for a different texture. It’s also delicious alongside a light salad, such as Cucumber Salad Dressing, for a balanced meal or as part of a potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain the texture and crispiness of the top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Festive Cherry Dessert(Aka: Dump Cake) contains roughly 906 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dessert a day in advance. Just assemble the layers in the pan, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best texture. If baking from cold, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix complements the fruit flavors nicely, you can experiment with chocolate or spice cake mixes for a different taste. Each mix brings its unique flavor profile that can enhance the dessert’s overall experience.
Is this dessert suitable for vegan diets?
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply substitute the margarine with a vegan butter alternative and ensure your cake mix is free of dairy ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a delightful dessert that fits within vegan recipes while still being deliciously indulgent.
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).