Pam'S Cherry Crunch
A delightful cherry crunch dessert featuring a buttery pecan crust topped with creamy whipped topping, cream cheese, and vibrant cherry pie filling, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, margarine, sugar, and chopped pecans.
- Spread the mixture into an 8 1/2 x 11-inch casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool the crust before adding toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine, and try adding a pinch of salt to the crust mixture. If you're short on time, pre-made pie crust can be used as a base. Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist. If you want to make it a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour.
Serving Suggestions
Pam's Cherry Crunch is delightful when served chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves. This dish would complement a gathering alongside other American recipes, making it a perfect dessert for potlucks and family meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. The crust may lose some crispness when reheated, so enjoy it fresh for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pam'S Cherry Crunch contains roughly 961 calories, with 8g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, pit and slice about 2 cups and mix them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a thicker filling. This will enhance the fresh fruit flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the rich cream cheese layer.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Pam's Cherry Crunch gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the Dream Whip and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What can I use instead of Dream Whip?
If you don't have Dream Whip, you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream. Simply whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form. This will give you a similar light and fluffy texture, enhancing the overall dessert.
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).