Looking for a low-calorie dessert option? Look no further than 1/3 cup (85 g) Lite Cherry Pie Filling, which only contains 35 calories.

But what's in this cherry-filled goodness? The ingredients include cherries, water, food starch, xylitol, citric acid and natural flavors.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of cherries, how to use cherry pie filling in your cooking and baking, packaging, shelf life and more.

Low Calories in Lite Cherry Pie Filling

If you're watching your calorie intake or trying to lose weight, you can still indulge in a sweet cherry pie with this guilt-free option. Plus, with only 8 grams of sugar per serving, it's a healthier alternative to traditional cherry pie filling.

Ingredients in Lite Cherry Pie Filling

- Cherries: The star of the show, cherries not only provide sweetness but also antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C. - Water: Used to create the right consistency and hydration. - Food starch, xylitol, citric acid and natural flavors: These ingredients are added to enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.

Nutritional Benefits of Cherries

- Antioxidants: Cherries are one of the best sources of antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals. - Fiber: One cup of cherries contains 3 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes fullness. - Vitamin C: Cherries are also high in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune function and collagen production in the body.

Lite Cherry Pie Filling Serving Size

The recommended serving size for Lite Cherry Pie Filling is 1/3 cup (85 g), which contains 35 calories and 8 grams of sugar. Keep in mind that this is for one serving; you may need to adjust the amount depending on your recipe and how many people you're serving.

Cherry Pie Filling vs Fresh Cherries

- Convenience: Cherry pie filling is easy to use and requires no preparation, while fresh cherries need to be pitted and chopped. - Nutritional value: Fresh cherries contain more nutrients than cherry pie filling, including fiber and vitamin C. However, cherry pie filling can still provide some nutritional benefits. - Taste: Fresh cherries have a more vibrant and fresh taste, while cherry pie filling may be sweeter and more syrupy.

Lite Cherry Pie Filling Packaging

Lite Cherry Pie Filling usually comes in a can or jar with a sealed lid. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a week. If you don't use the entire can or jar, transfer the remaining filling to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from your fridge.

Cooking with Cherry Pie Filling

- Swirl into cheesecake batter for a cherry-swirled dessert. - Mix into pancake or waffle batter for a fruity twist on breakfast. - Spoon on top of ice cream or yogurt for a sweet and creamy treat.

Lite Cherry Pie Filling Shelf Life

Lite Cherry Pie Filling usually has a shelf life of about 2 years, as long as it's unopened and stored at room temperature in a cool and dry place. Once opened, it should be consumed within a week or two and kept in the fridge.

Cherry Pie Filling Snacking Ideas

- Spread on top of toast or bagels for a fruity twist on breakfast. - Top rice cakes or crackers with cherry pie filling and a dollop of peanut butter for a sweet and savory snack. - Use as a dip for fresh fruit like apple slices or strawberries.

Cherry Pie Filling in Desserts

- Cherry Cheesecake Bars: These bars have a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling and a swirl of cherry pie filling on top. - Cherry Dump Cake: A simple and delicious dessert that requires only three ingredients – cherry pie filling, yellow cake mix and butter. - Cherry Hand Pies: These mini pies are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert and can be made with pre-made pie crust and cherry pie filling.