Peek-A-Boos
Sweet cherry-filled cake with a moist crumb and fruity pockets, perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy classic, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla or almond extract.
- Combine flour and baking powder; gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Pour batter into a buttered 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Spoon a teaspoon of cherry pie filling onto the batter in 16 spots, spacing four spoonfuls evenly in each direction.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 50 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Serve warm, topped with slightly sweetened whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using half butter and half unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for margarine. If you're out of cherry pie filling, fresh or frozen cherries mixed with a little sugar and cornstarch can work well. Ensure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for the best texture. This recipe can also be made with almond extract for a nutty flavor, enhancing the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats are best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar. Pair them with slightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgence. They also make a great addition to brunch alongside coffee or tea. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a fruit salad like Quick Mix Fruit Cocktail Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Peek-A-Boos to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peek-A-Boos contains roughly 277 calories, with 1g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% 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 a different fruit filling?
Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings such as blueberry, apple, or even mixed berry. Just ensure the filling is not too runny, as it may affect the batter's texture. Experimenting with flavors can yield delicious results and offer a new twist on this classic recipe.
How can I make these gluten-free?
To make Peek-A-Boos gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Additionally, check that your baking powder is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delightful dessert.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
While it's best to bake the batter immediately for optimal texture, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This can be a time-saver if you're planning to serve them for a gathering.
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).