Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that tastes like homemade love but without the hours of kitchen toil? Then look no further! This Duncan Hines cherry pie recipe elevates the classic dessert to new heights, offering a simple yet incredibly delicious homemade treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe will have you whipping up a delectable cherry pie in no time. It's the perfect blend of convenience and homemade goodness – the best of both worlds! This recipe uses Duncan Hines cake mix as a base, making it a truly quick dinner idea or a delightful end to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Cherry Supreme Cake Mix
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling (or your favorite homemade cherry filling)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but enhances flavor)
- 1 (15 ounce) can cherry pie filling (for topping, optional)
- Whipped cream or ice cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
This recipe utilizes the Duncan Hines cake mix to simplify the process. While you could make a homemade pie crust, the cake mix acts as a surprisingly delicious and easy crust base. Trust us on this one!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the Duncan Hines cake mix, oil, eggs, water, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix thoroughly until a smooth batter forms. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Make sure there are no lumps!
Step 3: Add the Cherry Filling
Gently fold in the 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough crust. A few gentle folds are all you need to incorporate the filling evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a 9-inch ungreased pie plate. For extra cherry flavor, you can add the optional 15-ounce can of cherry pie filling on top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10-15 minutes, as ovens can vary.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy pie. Once cooled, slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an extra special treat.
Cooking Tips for the Best Duncan Hines Cherry Pie:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough pie crust. Gentle folding is key!
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let it cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing the pie to cool completely prevents a runny filling.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delicious crunch.
- Use different fruit: This recipe can easily be adapted to other fruits like blueberries or apples. Simply substitute the cherry filling with your preferred fruit filling.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a delicious gluten-free alternative.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This easy and delicious Duncan Hines cherry pie recipe is a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can be. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. Enjoy!