Cherry Surprise Dessert

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

June 5, 2025

Updated:

June 5, 2025

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Cherry Surprise Dessert is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherry pie filling with a light, fluffy cake base. This dessert is not only simple to make but also perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration. The wonderful balance of flavors and textures makes Cherry Surprise Dessert a standout choice that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have this dessert ready in no time.
Deliciously Sweet: The combination of sugar and cherry pie filling creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or even just a cozy night in, this dessert fits any occasion.
Minimal Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, you won’t need to hunt for special items.
Easy Cleanup: The use of a single baking dish means less time washing up after enjoying your delicious creation.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Cherry Surprise Dessert, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

13 x 9 glass baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Non-stick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

13 x 9 glass baking dish: Ideal for even baking and easy viewing while your dessert cooks.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly blending the dry and wet ingredients.

Ingredients

Cherry Surprise Dessert is made with simple ingredients that pack great flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake Base

2 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
½ cup butter
½ cup milk

For the Topping

21 ounce can cherry pie filling

How to Make Cherry Surprise Dessert

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°. While it’s heating, spray your 13 x 9 glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 cups all purpose flour
2. 1 tablespoon baking powder
3. ⅛ teaspoon salt

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, cream together:
1. ½ cup butter
2. 1 cup sugar

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the creamed mixture, alternating with:
1. ½ cup milk

Mix until just combined to maintain a light texture.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Spread the dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish using a spatula.

Step 6: Add Cherry Filling

Evenly cover the dough layer with:
1. 21 ounce can cherry pie filling

Spread it out gently so it covers all corners.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Now you have your delicious Cherry Surprise Dessert ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Cherry Surprise Dessert

Cherry Surprise Dessert is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delightful treat.

A La Mode

Serve warm Cherry Surprise Dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic combination that enhances the flavors.

Whipped Cream Topping

Add a generous dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. This adds a light and airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dessert.

Fresh Cherries

Garnish with fresh cherries for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. This gives an appealing look and enhances the cherry flavor.

Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted chocolate over the dessert just before serving. The rich chocolate complements the sweet cherries perfectly.

Crushed Nuts

Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch. This creates a delightful textural contrast and adds nutrition.

Serving in Individual Cups

For a more elegant presentation, serve the dessert in individual cups or ramekins. This makes it perfect for parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Cherry Surprise Dessert

To ensure your Cherry Surprise Dessert turns out wonderfully every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Measure Accurately: Precision is key in baking. Make sure to measure your flour and sugar correctly for optimal results.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid toughening the dessert.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; if it comes out clean, your dessert is done baking.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the dessert to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the filling and enhances flavors.
Experiment with Variations: Try different pie fillings like blueberry or peach to create your own twist on this recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Surprise Dessert

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Surprise Dessert can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

Vanilla Ice Cream
A creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream adds richness and balances the tartness of the cherries.
Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a light counterpart to this sweet dish.
Cheese Platter
Offer a variety of cheeses that contrast with sweetness, such as sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese, creating an interesting flavor profile.
Chocolate Cake
For chocolate lovers, serving slices of rich chocolate cake alongside can create a decadent dessert experience.
Pecan Pie
The nutty flavor of pecan pie pairs well with cherry desserts, offering another layer of sweetness and texture.
Coffee or Tea
Serve with freshly brewed coffee or tea to complement the flavors and provide a comforting end to your meal.
Brownies
Fudgy brownies can be an indulgent addition alongside Cherry Surprise Dessert, making it perfect for gatherings.
Scones
Lightly sweetened scones can add elegance while providing a nice contrast in texture when served warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Surprise Dessert can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven may result in uneven baking. Always preheat to 350° before starting your recipe.
Skipping the Non-Stick Spray: Neglecting to spray the baking dish can lead to sticking. Ensure you coat your dish thoroughly for easy serving.
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your dessert dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Not keeping an eye on the baking time can result in an undercooked or burnt dessert. Start checking at 55 minutes for doneness.
Using Cold Ingredients: Mixing cold ingredients can affect the batter’s consistency. Let butter and milk sit at room temperature before using them.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Cherry Surprise Dessert in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure it is completely cooled before placing it in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Cherry Surprise Dessert

You can freeze this dessert for up to 3 months.
Cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Cherry Surprise Dessert

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350° and warm the dessert for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a skillet, covering it with a lid to keep moisture in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cherry Surprise Dessert?

Cherry Surprise Dessert is a simple yet delicious treat made with cherry pie filling and a fluffy cake-like base.

How long does it take to make Cherry Surprise Dessert?

The total time from start to finish is approximately 65 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize my Cherry Surprise Dessert?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or substitute other fruit fillings based on your preferences.

How should I serve Cherry Surprise Dessert?

Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special touch!

What other flavors can I use besides cherry?

Feel free to experiment with blueberry, peach, or apple pie filling for different flavor variations of this delightful dessert!

Final Thoughts

Cherry Surprise Dessert is not only quick and easy but also offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat at home, this dessert will surely impress. Try adding your favorite fruits or toppings to make it uniquely yours!