Are you craving a delicious dessert that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Easy Cherry Delight recipe is your answer. Forget complicated baking – this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s the perfect homemade treat for a weeknight dessert, a casual gathering, or even a special occasion. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this stunning and healthy-ish dessert. It’s one of those best recipes that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can cherry pie filling (or homemade, if you're feeling ambitious!)
- 1 (18 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream (whipped)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake layer doesn't stick. You can also use baking spray for a quick and easy solution.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before adding the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Step 4: Layer the Delight
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly. Then, carefully pour the entire can of cherry pie filling over the batter. Top with the remaining cake batter, spreading it to cover the filling evenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes, as ovens can vary.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the Cherry Delight cool completely in the pan before serving. Once cooled, top with the whipped cream and maraschino cherries (optional) for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Best Cherry Delight:
- Homemade Cherry Filling: For an even more delicious dessert, try making your own cherry filling. It's surprisingly easy and allows you to control the sweetness and the amount of cherries.
- Crumb Topping: Add a streusel topping for extra texture and flavor. Simply combine flour, brown sugar, butter, and oats. Sprinkle over the cake before baking.
- Variations: Experiment with different cake mixes, like chocolate or spice cake, for a unique twist. You could also add other fruits, like blueberries or raspberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 40-50g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
This Easy Cherry Delight is a perfect example of a delicious dish that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a quick dinner idea dessert, a simple recipe perfect for both quick weeknight meals and special occasions. Enjoy this burst of summer flavor any time of the year! It's one of those easy recipes that everyone will love. Try it and let us know what you think!