Craving a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and bursting with cherry almond goodness? Look no further than this Cherry Almond Bundt Cake recipe. With a blend of yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding, almond extract, maraschino cherries, and sliced almonds, this cake is a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect choice for a sweet pick-me-up that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
During times when we’re all seeking simple yet rewarding activities, this bundt cake offers a delicious solution. The magic lies in the simplicity of using basic ingredients like boxed cake mix and instant pudding to create a moist and tender cake that looks as elegant as it tastes. Whether you’re baking with kids or enjoying a peaceful solo baking session, this Cherry Almond Bundt Cake is sure to bring joy with every bite.
Ingredients
Cherry Almond Bundt Cake
- 3 sticks (339 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (600 g) sugar
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups (342 g) cake flour (not self-rising)
- ½ teaspoon (2 g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (232 g) heavy whipping cream (do not whip)
- 1 tablespoon (12 g) almond extract
- ⅓ cup (90 g) Cherry Jam/Preserves
- ¾ teaspoon (3 g) Cherry Flavoring (Watkins brand)/Teaspoon Cherry Jell-O Powder
- 1 cup of reserved cake batter
- Red Coloring Gel (optional for desired shade of red)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for consistency)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh Cherries for Garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
For this cherry almond bundt cake recipe, you will need the following equipment to ensure smooth preparation and baking:
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh sieve
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
- Oven
Having these essential items ready before starting the baking process will make it easier to create a delicious cherry almond bundt cake. Make sure all equipment is clean and in good condition to guarantee the best results.
Preparation
Before diving into creating the delicious Cherry Almond Bundt Cake, make sure to prepare the necessary equipment and ingredients for a seamless baking experience.
Preparing the Cake Pan
- Grease and Flour:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and generously grease and flour the bundt pans. Ensure proper coating to prevent sticking.
- Chopping Cherries:
- Chop fresh cherries and mix them with cherry preserves, sugar, water, and Amaretto or Almond Extract, ensuring a sweet and flavorful cherry mixture.
- Creaming Butter:
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter until smooth, adding sugar gradually until light and fluffy, ensuring a well-mixed and creamy texture for the cake.
- Mixing Dry Ingredients:
- Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents for a well-risen cake.
- Beating Eggs:
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a light cake texture.
- Preparing Cherry-Almond Mixture:
- Toss chopped cherries and almonds with a portion of the flour mixture, coating them evenly to maximize flavor and distribution throughout the cake batter.
Directions
As I guide you through the process of making this delightful cherry almond bundt cake, we’ll focus on three critical steps: Mixing the Batter, Baking the Cake, and Making the Glaze.
Mixing the Batter
To begin crafting this scrumptious cherry almond bundt cake, first, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Cream the butter until smooth, then gradually add the sugar while beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating them well. Finally, blend in the almond extract for that delicious nutty flavor.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Add half of the dry ingredients and half of the milk to the wet batter, mixing until partially combined. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients and milk, ensuring all components are well blended.
Baking the Cake
Once you’ve prepared the batter, it’s time to layer it with the cherry pie filling. Strain the cherry pie filling through a sieve to separate the cherries from the liquid. Begin by pouring 1/3 of the batter into the bundt pan, followed by 1/3 of the cherries and some cherry juice. Swirl gently to create a marbled effect. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with the remaining batter on top.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 65-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Glaze
For a decadent finishing touch, prepare the glaze by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, half and half, and almond extract or vanilla. Blend the ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Assembly and Decoration
Applying the Glaze
I love finishing off my cherry almond bundt cake with a simple yet delicious glaze. To make the glaze, start by creaming 4 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of half and half, mixing until well combined. Finally, add a hint of almond extract or vanilla for that perfect flavor. Adjust the sugar or milk amounts to reach your desired consistency.
Baking Tips
As an experienced baker, I have gathered essential baking tips to ensure your cherry almond bundt cake turns out perfectly every time. Follow these simple guidelines to achieve a moist and delicious cake.
Checking for Doneness
When checking the cherry almond bundt cake for doneness, look for the sides of the cake to begin pulling away. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to test for wet batter. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Remember, there’s a fine line between baking it enough and allowing it to cool for too long.
Preventing a Dry Cake
To prevent your cherry almond bundt cake from turning out dry, avoid overbaking it. Cover the pan with foil during the last 20 minutes of baking to retain moisture. Additionally, ensure proper mixing of the batter without overmixing, as this can lead to a denser texture. Lastly, store the cake properly at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain its moisture content for a longer period.
Storing and Freezing
Properly storing and freezing your Cherry Almond Bundt Cake is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor for an extended period. Here are simple guidelines to ensure your cake stays delicious:
Refrigeration Instructions
Once your cake is baked and glazed, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for around 4-5 days. Remember to cover it adequately with an airtight container to preserve its moisture.
Freezing and Thawing the Cake
If you wish to freeze your cake, ensure it is entirely cooled before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature before unwrapping it to maintain its texture and flavor.
Following these simple storage and freezing instructions will help you savor your Cherry Almond Bundt Cake for longer periods without compromising its taste and quality.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation and overall dining experience of your cherry almond bundt cake, here are some serving suggestions to impress your guests:
1. Fresh Cherry Garnish:
Before serving, consider adding some fresh cherries on top of the cake for a pop of color and a delightful burst of freshness. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a touch of natural sweetness to each slice.
2. Powdered Sugar Dusting:
After the cake has cooled and before slicing, generously sprinkle powdered sugar on top. The white dusting not only creates a visually appealing contrast but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cherry-almond flavors of the cake.
3. Almond Flakes:
For an extra layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle some almond flakes over the top of the cake. The nutty crunch of the almonds pairs beautifully with the soft crumb of the cake, creating a harmonious blend of textures.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream:
For a decadent dessert experience, serve slices of the cherry almond bundt cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful flavor and temperature contrast that your guests will love.
5. Cherry Sauce Drizzle:
For an added touch of indulgence, consider making a simple cherry sauce by simmering fresh cherries with a bit of sugar and water until thickened. Drizzle the luscious cherry sauce over slices of the cake just before serving for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
6. Whipped Cream Topping:
If you prefer a lighter topping, serve the cherry almond bundt cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The airy texture of the whipped cream complements the dense cake, adding a creamy element that enhances the overall dessert experience.
By following these serving suggestions, you can transform your cherry almond bundt cake into a stunning dessert centerpiece that not only tastes divine but also looks visually appealing and inviting.
Conclusion
Creating a Cherry Almond Bundt Cake is a delightful experience that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With simple steps and basic ingredients, this recipe allows for a delicious dessert suitable for any occasion. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can achieve a moist and flavorful cake that will impress your guests. Remember to utilize the baking tips shared to ensure the best results. Storing and freezing guidelines are also available to help you preserve the cake’s freshness for longer periods. Elevate your serving presentation by adding various toppings and accompaniments to enhance both the visual appeal and taste of the cake. Enjoy the process of baking this Cherry Almond Bundt Cake and savor the delightful outcome with your loved ones. Happy baking!