Craving a delightful treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of cherries with the nuttiness of almonds? Look no further than this mouthwatering Sweet Cherry Almond Cake recipe. Bursting with juicy cherries and infused with hints of vanilla, almond, and lemon, this cake is a true summer sensation. The tender crumb, crunchy almond topping, and jammy fruit filling make every bite a delightful experience.
This classic cherry cake is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. The combination of all-purpose flour and almond flour creates a light and fluffy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cherries. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a sweet treat, this cherry almond cake is a versatile dessert that will impress your guests. Get ready to indulge in the perfect blend of fruity sweetness and nutty goodness in every slice.
Ingredients
Creating a delectable Cherry Almond Cake involves gathering a few key ingredients for the cake layers, frosting, and optional add-ins or substitutions. Below is a breakdown of the components you’ll need to whip up this delightful cake:
Cherry Almond Cake
- All-purpose flour
- Almond flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Sugar
- Sour cream
- Almond extract
- Egg whites
- Whole milk
- Water
- Maraschino cherries
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
For the Almond Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Almond extract
- Red food coloring (if using cherries without color)
- Sliced almonds and coarse sugar (for topping)
- Additional maraschino cherries for decoration
Gather these ingredients to create a sensational Cherry Almond Cake that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Equipment Needed
For preparing this delicious Cherry Almond Cake, you will need the following equipment:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium to large mixing bowls for combining the ingredients for the cake batter and frosting.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer will help in beating the cake batter and frosting to the desired consistency.
- Cake Pans: Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans for baking the cake layers.
- Parchment Paper: Line the cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: Have a cooling rack ready to cool the cake layers before frosting.
- Cherry Pitter (optional): If you prefer fresh cherries, a cherry pitter will help in removing the pits efficiently.
- Offset Spatula: Use an offset spatula for spreading the frosting on the cake layers smoothly.
- Cake Stand or Plate: Display your finished Cherry Almond Cake on a cake stand or plate for serving.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to the required temperature for baking the cake.
Having these essential equipment pieces ready will streamline the baking process and ensure your Cherry Almond Cake turns out perfectly delightful.
Preparation
Before diving into making this delectable cherry almond cake, it’s essential to prepare the key components that will ensure a successful baking experience. Let’s start by prepping the cherries and ensuring the pan is ready for the cake mixture.
Preparing the Cherries
- Pit the Cherries: Remove the pits from the cherries using a cherry pitter or a small knife.
- Slice the Cherries: Cut most of the cherries into quarters and some into halves, ensuring a mix of sizes for added texture in the cake.
- Prepping the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and spray an 8-inch round cake pan with baking spray.
- Lining the Pan: To prepare the pan, rub the inside surface with a paper towel to evenly coat it with the spray. Then, lightly spray again to ensure easy cake release.
- Adding Parchment Paper: Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Instructions
Creating a delicious Cherry Almond Cake is a delightful and rewarding process. Below are the detailed steps to mix the batter, bake the cake, and make the frosting to bring this delightful dessert to life.
Mixing the Batter
To begin, sift together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the softened butter, milk, and cherry juice. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, and extracts until a smooth consistency is achieved. Sprinkle the baking powder and salt over the mixture, followed by the all-purpose and almond flours. Whisk gently until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Pour in the oil and whisk vigorously until the batter is smooth and well-blended. Remember not to overmix, as it may lead to a tougher texture. Once the batter is ready, transfer it into the prepared cake pan and evenly distribute the halved cherries on top.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Butter an 8-inch round cake pan, line the bottom with parchment paper, and lightly spray it with baking spray. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool before removing it from the pan. This cooling process ensures a firmer texture and prevents the cake from crumbling.
Making the Frosting
If desired, you can create a delicious almond cream cheese frosting to complement the Cherry Almond Cake. Blend together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
After the cake has completely cooled, apply a generous layer of frosting on top using an offset spatula. Garnish with sliced almonds, coarse sugar, and additional cherries for a visually appealing finish.
By following these simple steps, you’ll create a delectable Cherry Almond Cake that is sure to impress your family and friends with its delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Assembling the Cake
Once all the components of the cherry almond cake are ready, it’s time to assemble this delightful dessert masterpiece. Follow these simple steps to put together a cake that not only tastes heavenly but looks appealing too.
Step 1: Layering the Cakes
- Start by ensuring that the almond cakes are cooled completely.
- Place the first almond cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Using a pastry brush, gently brush cherry juice on top of the cake layer to add moisture and enhance the cherry flavor.
- Carefully spread a generous layer of cherry almond frosting on top of the cake layer.
Step 2: Adding the Cherry Filling
- Spoon a portion of the cherry pie filling over the frosting and spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Repeat this process with the remaining cake layers, alternating between almond cake, cherry almond frosting, and cherry filling.
Step 3: Frosting the Cake
- Once all the layers are assembled, frost the sides and the top of the cake with the remaining cherry almond frosting.
- Use a offset spatula to create decorative swirls or patterns on the frosting for an elegant finish.
- For a final touch, garnish the cake with fresh cherries, sliced almonds, or any other decorative elements of your choice.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the frosting to set.
Serving and Presentation Tips
After creating this delightful Cherry Almond Cake, it’s time to present and serve it in a visually appealing and scrumptious way. Here are some tips to make your cake truly stand out:
1. Garnish with Fresh Cherries and Almonds:
Decorate your cherry almond cake with fresh cherries and toasted slivered almonds for an extra pop of color and a delightful crunch. The contrast between the juicy cherries and the nutty almonds elevates both the presentation and the taste of the cake.
2. Serve with a Splash of Cream:
Before serving each slice, add a splash of cream on the side of the plate. This not only adds a touch of indulgence but also complements the flavors of the cherry almond cake beautifully, giving each bite a creamy richness.
3. Dust with Powdered Sugar:
Just before serving, dust a light layer of powdered sugar on top of the cake. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also creates an elegant and professional finish that will impress your guests.
4. Drizzle with Cherry Glaze:
For an extra burst of cherry flavor, consider drizzling a homemade cherry glaze over the cake just before serving. The shiny glaze will enhance the appearance of the cake while adding a delicious fruity touch to each slice.
5. Use a Decorative Cake Stand:
Present your cherry almond cake on a decorative cake stand to elevate its visual appeal. A beautiful cake stand not only showcases the cake but also adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Storage and Care
After baking a delicious Cherry Almond Cake, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some tips on how to store and care for your cake:
1. Storage:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before storing to avoid condensation and keep the texture intact.
- Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or a cake keeper to further protect it from absorbing odors from the fridge.
2. Refrigeration:
- If the cake has a perishable filling or frosting, such as cream cheese or fresh fruit, store it in the refrigerator.
- Ensure that the cake is covered to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted flavors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Freezing:
- For longer storage, you can freeze the Cherry Almond Cake. Wrap it in several layers of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped cake with the date to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Let the cake come to room temperature before serving to ensure the best taste and texture.
By following these storage and care instructions, you can prolong the shelf life of your Cherry Almond Cake and continue to enjoy its delicious flavors for days to come.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a delectable Sweet Cherry Almond Cake recipe that tantalizes the taste buds with the perfect blend of cherry sweetness and almond nuttiness. This cake offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it a versatile treat for any occasion. From the juicy cherries to the almond cream cheese frosting, every bite is a symphony of deliciousness. Remember to follow the storage tips provided to keep your Cherry Almond Cake fresh and flavorful for longer. Whether you’re serving it at a special gathering or indulging in a slice for yourself, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of baking, decorating, and savoring this delightful dessert that will leave you craving for more.