Panic
A warm, comforting dessert featuring a layered combination of fruit pie filling, cake mix, and buttery topping, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour pie filling into a greased 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the pie filling.
- Pour melted butter or margarine over the cake mix and sprinkle on nuts.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40 minutes to 1 hour until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm plain or with whipped cream or ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix. You can substitute the pie filling with any fruit variety you prefer, such as cherry or blueberry. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix. Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips between the layers can enhance the texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Garlicky Mashed Potatoes for a savory meal. For a refreshing twist, consider serving with Lime Fluff on the side, adding a citrusy contrast that complements the sweetness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the dish to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Panic contains roughly 664 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 57g fat.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit, but you may need to add sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the mixture, as fresh fruit will release more juice during baking. Adjust sweetness according to the fruit's natural flavor.
What can I do if I don't have an 8 x 8-inch pan?
If you don't have an 8 x 8-inch pan, you can use a 9 x 13-inch pan instead. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may be slightly shorter due to a larger surface area.
How do I know when it's done baking?
The dish is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the cake mix has set.
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).