Introduction: Craving a Sweet, Effortless Dessert?
Want a warm, fruity dessert that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple treat? Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is the ultimate recipe! This easy slow-cooker dish combines juicy cherry pie filling and tender pears with a buttery, almond-crunch topping, all crowned with a golden cake mix crust. With minimal prep, it’s ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or a sweet indulgence. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra delight! Ready to create a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Overview: Why Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is Special
Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is a delightful, low-effort dessert that blends the best of a cobbler and a cake, with a fruity base and crumbly topping. The slow-cooker method makes it stand out. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 10 minutes prep, 3-4 hours cooking on Low, for a total of about 3-4 hours (hands-off).
- Difficulty Level: Super easy! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a fuss-free, high-reward dessert.
- Why It’s Unique: The slow cooker melds cherry pie filling and pears with almond extract for a sweet-tart base, while a mix of yellow cake mix, oats, almonds, and brown sugar forms a crunchy, golden topping. Melted butter ties it all together, creating a cobbler-like texture with minimal work. This versatile dessert is perfect for any occasion, served warm and optionally paired with ice cream for a classic touch.
This recipe is simple, indulgent, and perfect for dessert lovers or fans of fruity sweets. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 8-10 (using a 5-quart slow cooker) and uses pantry-friendly ingredients for a delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Fruit Base:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) sliced pears, drained
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- For the Topping:
- 1 package yellow cake mix (regular size, about 15.25 ounces)
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Pears: Add tender, juicy sweetness to complement the cherries.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Provides a tart, vibrant fruit base.
- Almond Extract: Enhances the fruit with a subtle, nutty flavor.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Forms a golden, cakey topping with minimal effort.
- Oats: Add texture and a rustic, cobbler-like crunch.
- Sliced Almonds: Bring nutty flavor and a delicate crunch.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- Butter: Melts into the topping, creating a rich, crumbly crust.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Optional for a creamy, cool contrast to the warm buckle.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pears: Swap with canned peaches or fresh pears (peeled and sliced, about 4 cups).
- Cherry Pie Filling: Use blueberry, apple, or mixed berry pie filling.
- Almond Extract: Replace with vanilla extract or omit for a simpler flavor.
- Cake Mix: Try white, spice, or butter pecan cake mix for variety.
- Oats: Use quick oats or skip for a smoother topping.
- Almonds: Substitute with chopped pecans, walnuts, or omit for nut-free.
- Brown Sugar: Swap with white sugar or maple syrup.
- Butter: Use margarine, coconut oil, or vegan butter for dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix and ensure oats are gluten-free.
- Lower Sugar: Choose no-sugar-added pie filling or reduce brown sugar to 1 teaspoon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is a breeze, with a quick assembly and hands-off cooking. Follow these steps for a perfect dessert!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Drain 2 cans (15 ounces each) sliced pears.
- Open 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling.
- Measure 1/4 teaspoon almond extract.
- Measure 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats, 1/4 cup sliced almonds, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/2 cup butter (melt in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds).
- Open 1 package yellow cake mix (no need to prepare it).
- Grease a 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
Tip: Ensure butter is fully melted for even distribution; drain pears well to avoid excess liquid.
Step 2: Assemble the Fruit Base
- Combine Fruit: In the greased 5-quart slow cooker, combine drained pears and cherry pie filling.
- Add Extract: Stir in almond extract until evenly mixed.
Tip: Spread the fruit mixture evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Topping
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine dry yellow cake mix, oats, sliced almonds, and brown sugar. Stir to blend.
- Add Butter: Pour melted butter over the dry mixture. Stir until crumbly and moistened, with some small clumps.
Tip: Use a fork to mix the topping; it should look uneven and crumbly, not smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the fruit base in the slow cooker, covering it completely.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours, until the topping is golden brown and set, and the fruit is bubbly.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat; check at 3 hours, as some slow cookers may finish faster.
Step 5: Serve
- Scoop and Serve: Spoon the warm cherry buckle into bowls, ensuring each serving has fruit and topping.
- Optional Addition: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast, if desired.
Tip: Serve directly from the slow cooker to keep it warm; use a large spoon to capture the gooey fruit and crunchy topping.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle
Assembling Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is all about layering a fruity base with a buttery, nutty topping for a warm, cobbler-like dessert. Here’s how to put it together:
- Layer Fruit: Combine pears, cherry pie filling, and almond extract for a sweet-tart base.
- Mix Topping: Blend cake mix, oats, almonds, and brown sugar with butter for a crumbly crust.
- Assemble: Spread topping over fruit in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Cook until golden and bubbly for a perfect buckle.
- Serve Warm: Scoop into bowls, optionally with ice cream.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve in dessert bowls with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a classic look.
- Garnish with extra sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar for flair.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine for a cozy experience.
- Use colorful or rustic bowls to highlight the buckle’s vibrant fruit and golden topping.
Serving Suggestions
Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Potluck Star: Bring to gatherings; it stays warm in the slow cooker for easy serving.
- Family Dessert: Serve after dinner with ice cream for a comforting treat.
- Holiday Sweet: Pair with festive meals as a lighter alternative to pie or cake.
- Brunch Treat: Offer as a sweet option alongside savory brunch dishes.
- With Toppings: Add a drizzle of caramel, fresh whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is best fresh but can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Ingredients: Measure cake mix, oats, almonds, and brown sugar up to 1 day ahead; store in airtight containers.
- Fruit Base: Combine pears, pie filling, and almond extract in the slow cooker insert up to 4 hours ahead; refrigerate, then add topping and cook.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Tip: Add fresh ice cream or whipped cream when serving leftovers to revive the dessert’s charm.
Recipe Variations
Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Peach-Berry Buckle: Use peach pie filling and canned peaches instead of cherries and pears.
- Apple-Cinnamon: Swap cherry pie filling for apple and add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the topping.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix and ensure oats are gluten-free.
- Lower Fat: Use 1/4 cup butter or replace with applesauce for a lighter topping.
- Nut-Free: Omit almonds and increase oats to 1/3 cup.
- Chocolate Cherry: Add 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips to the topping for a decadent twist.
- Oven-Baked Option: Layer in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes until golden.
Tip: Keep the fruit base and cake mix topping for the classic buckle texture.
Conclusion: Savor Your Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle!
You’ve just made Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle—a warm, fruity, and effortless dessert that’s perfect for any occasion! This slow-cooker recipe is simple, versatile, and so delicious it’ll become a go-to treat. Whether you top it with ice cream or enjoy it plain, this buckle is sure to bring smiles. Grab a bowl, scoop some cherry-pear goodness, and enjoy the cozy vibes. What’s your favorite fruit combo for a buckle? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle
Description
Want a warm, fruity dessert that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple treat? Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle is the ultimate recipe! This easy slow-cooker dish combines juicy cherry pie filling and tender pears with a buttery, almond-crunch topping, all crowned with a golden cake mix crust
Ingredients
This recipe serves 8-10 (using a 5-quart slow cooker) and uses pantry-friendly ingredients for a delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the Fruit Base:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) sliced pears, drained
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- For the Topping:
- 1 package yellow cake mix (regular size, about 15.25 ounces)
- 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Pears: Add tender, juicy sweetness to complement the cherries.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Provides a tart, vibrant fruit base.
- Almond Extract: Enhances the fruit with a subtle, nutty flavor.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Forms a golden, cakey topping with minimal effort.
- Oats: Add texture and a rustic, cobbler-like crunch.
- Sliced Almonds: Bring nutty flavor and a delicate crunch.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- Butter: Melts into the topping, creating a rich, crumbly crust.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Optional for a creamy, cool contrast to the warm buckle.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pears: Swap with canned peaches or fresh pears (peeled and sliced, about 4 cups).
- Cherry Pie Filling: Use blueberry, apple, or mixed berry pie filling.
- Almond Extract: Replace with vanilla extract or omit for a simpler flavor.
- Cake Mix: Try white, spice, or butter pecan cake mix for variety.
- Oats: Use quick oats or skip for a smoother topping.
- Almonds: Substitute with chopped pecans, walnuts, or omit for nut-free.
- Brown Sugar: Swap with white sugar or maple syrup.
- Butter: Use margarine, coconut oil, or vegan butter for dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cake mix and ensure oats are gluten-free.
- Lower Sugar: Choose no-sugar-added pie filling or reduce brown sugar to 1 teaspoon.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Drain 2 cans (15 ounces each) sliced pears.
- Open 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling.
- Measure 1/4 teaspoon almond extract.
- Measure 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats, 1/4 cup sliced almonds, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/2 cup butter (melt in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds).
- Open 1 package yellow cake mix (no need to prepare it).
- Grease a 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
Tip: Ensure butter is fully melted for even distribution; drain pears well to avoid excess liquid.
Step 2: Assemble the Fruit Base
- Combine Fruit: In the greased 5-quart slow cooker, combine drained pears and cherry pie filling.
- Add Extract: Stir in almond extract until evenly mixed.
Tip: Spread the fruit mixture evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Make the Topping
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine dry yellow cake mix, oats, sliced almonds, and brown sugar. Stir to blend.
- Add Butter: Pour melted butter over the dry mixture. Stir until crumbly and moistened, with some small clumps.
Tip: Use a fork to mix the topping; it should look uneven and crumbly, not smooth.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the fruit base in the slow cooker, covering it completely.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours, until the topping is golden brown and set, and the fruit is bubbly.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat; check at 3 hours, as some slow cookers may finish faster.
Step 5: Serve
- Scoop and Serve: Spoon the warm cherry buckle into bowls, ensuring each serving has fruit and topping.
- Optional Addition: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast, if desired.
Tip: Serve directly from the slow cooker to keep it warm; use a large spoon to capture the gooey fruit and crunchy topping.
FAQs
Q: Is Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle healthy?
A: The fruit provides some nutrients, but the cake mix and butter add sugar and fat. Use no-sugar-added pie filling, reduce butter, or serve smaller portions with fresh fruit for a lighter option.
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
A: Yes! Pit and chop 4 cups fresh cherries, toss with 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cornstarch, then use as directed. The texture may be less saucy.
Q: Why is my topping soggy?
A: Excess fruit liquid or uneven butter can cause this. Drain pears well and drizzle butter evenly. Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes if needed.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: Low is best for even cooking, but you can cook on High for 1.5-2 hours, checking for a set topping. High may dry the edges.
Q: Can I make this without a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Layer fruit and topping in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Q: Can I freeze Slow-Cooker Cherry Buckle?
A: Yes! Freeze cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving with fresh toppings.