Sharon'S Delight
Sharon's Delight is a luscious layered dessert featuring pineapple, bananas, and coconut, topped with whipped cream and pecans—perfect for gatherings and tropical flavor lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the yellow cake in a 9x13 inch pan according to the package directions and allow it to cool.
- Punch holes in the cooled cake with a toothpick.
- In a saucepan, mix the sugar and crushed pineapple, then boil for 5 minutes.
- Allow the pineapple mixture to cool, then pour it over the cake, pressing it into the holes.
- Mix the vanilla pudding and spread it evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Slice bananas and arrange them over the pudding layer.
- Top with Cool Whip, then sprinkle with coconut, cherries, and pecans.
- Keep refrigerated until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a flavored instant pudding mix, such as banana or coconut, instead of vanilla. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the Cool Whip with a homemade whipped cream or Greek yogurt. Make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the pineapple mixture to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Sharon's Delight is a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with Sara'S Dressing for a light meal or can be enjoyed alongside Chocolate Covered Cookies for a sweet feast. For a festive touch, consider adding maraschino cherries on top right before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the texture intact, avoid freezing as the whipped topping and bananas may not thaw well. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharon'S Delight contains roughly 587 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple; just make sure to chop it finely and mix it with sugar as instructed. However, using canned crushed pineapple adds moisture and flavor that blends well with the cake.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Sharon's Delight gluten-free, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients, like the pudding mix and Cool Whip, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
Can I prepare this dessert a day in advance?
Absolutely! Making Sharon's Delight a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It will be a hit at your 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).