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cherry pie filling and cake mix

Easy Cherry Pie Cake Recipe with Filling and Cake Mix

cherry pie filling and cake mix: a delightful duo for effortless desserts. This combination offers a quick route to scrumptious, home-baked flavor, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Baking, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowls (for optional nut topping)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • Spatula or Spoon
  • Toothpick (for testing doneness)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
  • 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures the cobbler doesn't stick.
  • Step 2: Spread Cherry Filling: Pour the cherry pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth base. The cherry filling will provide the moist, flavorful foundation for the cobbler.
  • Step 3: Sprinkle Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cherry pie filling. Ensure all the cherry filling is covered for a uniform topping. This step creates the cake-like topping.
  • Step 4: Drizzle Melted Butter: Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix, covering as much of the mix as possible. Even distribution of butter ensures a golden-brown, slightly crisp topping.
  • Step 5: Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added flavor and texture. The nuts provide a pleasant crunch and nutty taste.
  • Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Monitor the cobbler closely to prevent burning. A toothpick inserted into the topping should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
  • Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the cobbler cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning. Serve warm, plain, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter with melted coconut oil. Different cake mix flavors, such as chocolate or lemon, can be used to customize the taste. Adding a dash of cinnamon or almond extract enhances the overall flavor profile.

Notes

Variations

The basic cherry pie filling and cake mix recipe provides a springboard for culinary exploration. Adaptations can cater to different tastes, dietary needs, or regional preferences:
  • Ingredient Swaps:
    • Replace cherry pie filling with apple, blueberry, or peach filling for alternative fruit flavors.
    • Substitute yellow cake mix with white, chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix to alter the base flavor.
    • Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a subtle coconut flavor and a vegan-friendly option.
    • Add other fruit such as blackberries, peaches, or raspberries.
    • Replace nuts such as pecans or walnuts to sliced almonds or macadamia nuts.
  • Regional Twists:
    • Incorporate local fruits or berries for a unique regional flavor profile.
    • Add a dash of bourbon or rum to the cherry filling for a Southern-inspired variation.
    • Use a streusel topping instead of melted butter for a German-influenced crumb topping.
  • Dietary Adjustments:
    • Utilize gluten-free cake mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
    • Use sugar-free pie filling for a low-sugar option.
    • Substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of this dessert extends to its serving options. It is suitable for various occasions and can be presented in numerous ways:
  • Serve warm directly from the oven, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to reach its peak.
  • Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added richness and contrast.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
  • Serve as part of a brunch spread or as a satisfying end to a casual meal.
  • Can be served at room temperature, allowing the flavor to mellow out without the warmth.
  • For a festive touch, top with a sprig of fresh mint.

Storage Tips

Proper storage maintains the dessert’s quality and freshness:
  • Refrigeration: Store leftover cherry pie filling and cake mix dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Frozen dessert maintains its quality for up to 2-3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave in short intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time? The cherry pie filling mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The cake mix topping is best added just before baking to prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • Question 2: Can I use a different size baking dish? A slightly smaller or larger baking dish can be used, but may affect the baking time. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
  • Question 3: My cake mix topping is browning too quickly, what should I do? Tent the baking dish with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning while the filling continues to cook.
  • Question 4: Can I add spices to the cherry filling? Yes! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract can enhance the cherry flavor.
Keyword Easy Baking, Easy Dessert