Moist Cherry Cake
A moist, flavorful cherry cake featuring a tender yellow base layered with cherry filling, topped with cinnamon, sugar, and walnuts for a delightful dessert suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix according to the directions on the box.
- Pour half of the batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Add the cherry or apple pie filling over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter over the filling.
- Mix the sugar, crushed walnuts, and cinnamon together.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar-nut mixture over the top of the cake.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist cherry cake, ensure you don't overmix the batter after adding the pie filling. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or leave them out for a nut-free version. If you prefer a lighter cake, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs when preparing the cake mix. Additionally, try using a homemade cherry pie filling for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This moist cherry cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. It makes a wonderful dessert for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Creamy Cabbage Cole Slaw for a casual meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Moist Cherry Cake contains roughly 142 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g 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 frozen cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You might need to add a bit of sugar to balance the tartness if the cherries are not sweetened.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the cherry cake gluten-free, substitute the Duncan Hines cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure the pie filling and any additional ingredients are also certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
What can I do if the cake is too dry after baking?
If your cake turns out dry, try brushing it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved. This will add moisture back into the cake. Additionally, ensure that you're not overbaking, as this can lead to dryness.
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).