Indulge in the delightful world of cherry cake recipes with me. This moist and flavorful scratch Cherry Cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its beautiful pink hue. Whether you’re baking a heart-shaped cherry cake for Valentine’s Day or whipping up some homemade cherry cupcakes, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser.
From decadent chocolate ganache to luxurious Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting, the options to elevate this Cherry Cake are endless. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to add a fruity twist with cherry extract, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness in every bite. Stay tuned for a cherrylicious journey through the world of cherry cake variations and get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful treat.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make two delightful cherry cake variations: Fresh Cherry Cake and Maraschino Cherry Cake.
Fresh Cherry Cake
- Fresh cherries, pitted
- Pure cherry juice
- Butter
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Maraschino cherries, chopped
- Maraschino cherry juice
- Butter
- Sugar
- Almond extract
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
Necessary Equipment
- Three 8-inch Cake Pans: to bake the cake layers evenly and achieve a consistent texture.
- Parchment Paper: for lining the cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
- Baking Spray: to grease the pans and facilitate seamless cake release.
- Electric Mixer: for efficiently creaming the butter and sugar and achieving a fluffy cake batter.
- Rubber Spatula: for gently folding in the cherries and ensuring proper batter incorporation.
- Cake Plate: for assembling the cake layers and presenting the final masterpiece.
- Wire Rack: for cooling the cake layers evenly before assembly and frosting.
- Toothpick: for checking the cake’s doneness by inserting it into the center of the cake layers.
- Round Springform Pan (9-inch): for preparing the cherry upside-down cake with a beautiful presentation.
Prep
Preparing a delicious cherry cake involves a couple of crucial steps to ensure the perfect outcome. From pitting fresh cherries to getting the batter ready, let’s dive into the necessary prep work for this delightful treat.
How to Pit Fresh Cherries
Pitting fresh cherries is an essential step in making a mouth-watering cherry cake. To pit fresh cherries effectively, you can use a cherry pitter or a paperclip. Simply insert the tool into the cherry and carefully scoop out the pit. Ensure to remove any stems or leaves before pitting.
Preparing the Batter
To create a luscious cake batter, start by whisking together the dry ingredients, such as flour, baking powder, and salt, in a medium bowl. In a separate bowl, blend the wet ingredients like egg whites, cherry juice, milk, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then alternate adding the dry and wet mixtures while mixing on low speed until well blended. Gently fold in the chopped cherries before dividing the batter into cake pans for baking.
Directions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part – baking our delicious cherry cake. Follow these step-by-step directions to create a moist and flavorful cherry cake that will impress your taste buds.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Butter a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line the bottom and sides with a strip of parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until creamy using a handheld or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and cherry juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and the sour cream, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter into prepared cake pans or loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for the recommended time based on your chosen baking dish:
- Sheet cake, 13 x 9: Around 30 minutes
- Bundt pan, 9-inch: Around 55 to 60 minutes
- Round pans, 9-inch: Around 25 to 30 minutes
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade cherry cake, either plain or with your favorite frosting or whipped cream.
Additional Tips
Preventing Cherries from Sinking
To prevent cherries from sinking to the bottom of the cake, try tossing them in a little flour before folding them into the batter. This helps the cherries remain evenly distributed throughout the cake as it bakes, instead of sinking to the bottom.
Achieving Moist Cake Texture
For a moist cake texture, make sure not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Overmixing can lead to a tough and dry cake. Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a soft and moist texture in your cherry cake.
Variations
Cherry Layer Cake
For a delightful twist on the classic cherry cake, try making a Cherry Layer Cake. Layering the cherry cake batter and frosting creates a visually stunning dessert with an extra punch of cherry flavor. Simply bake two or more cake layers and stack them with a generous spread of cherry frosting between each layer. Don’t forget to top the cake with some extra cherries for a beautiful finishing touch!
Cherry Mango Cake Twist
For a unique and exotic flavor combination, why not try a Cherry Mango Cake Twist? Incorporate fresh mango chunks or mango puree into the cherry cake batter to add a tropical sweetness that complements the tartness of the cherries perfectly. The juicy mango pieces will add a burst of flavor and moisture to the cake, creating a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer occasions. Top the cake with a drizzle of mango glaze or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Serving and Presentation
When it comes to serving and presenting your Cherry Cake, there are various ways to make it visually appealing and appetizing. Here are some ideas on how to decorate and serve your delicious creation:
Decoration Ideas
- Cherry Toppings: Enhance the visual appeal of your Cherry Cake by decorating it with fresh cherries on top. Their bright red color adds a pop of freshness to the cake.
- Whipped Cream: For a classic touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on the side or top of the cake. The lightness of the cream complements the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the cake for an indulgent and decadent finish. The combination of chocolate and cherries is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Naked Cake Style: Try the naked cake style by leaving the sides of the cake exposed. This minimalist look showcases the layers inside and gives a rustic charm to your dessert.
- With Ice Cream: Serve slices of Cherry Cake with a scoop of vanilla or cherry-flavored ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
- Hot or Cold: Enjoy your Cherry Cake warm with a scoop of ice cream for a comforting treat, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert option.
- Tea or Coffee: Pair your Cherry Cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and satisfying snack or dessert moment.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation. This adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the cherry flavor.
- Variety of Cherries: Experiment with different types of cherries for garnishing, such as maraschino cherries or amarena cherries, to add depth and variety to the presentation.
Storage and Preservation
After baking a delicious cherry cake, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Below are some guidelines on how to store and preserve your cherry cake.
How to Store Cherry Cake
To store your cherry cake, ensure it is completely cooled. Once cooled, you can wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Store the wrapped cake at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or you can refrigerate it for longer freshness, up to a week. If you opt for refrigeration, make sure to bring the cake to room temperature before serving to enhance its taste and texture.
Freezing and Thawing Guidelines
If you want to freeze your cherry cake for later enjoyment, it’s best to freeze it unfrosted. Wrap the unfrosted cake in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or a sealable plastic bag. Your cherry cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy your frozen cherry cake, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can frost and serve the cake at room temperature for the best taste and texture. Avoid refreezing previously frozen cake to maintain its quality.
Conclusion
I’ve shared a range of delectable Cherry Cake recipes and innovative twists to elevate your baking game. From serving suggestions to storage tips, this article has covered it all. By understanding the significance of proper storage techniques, you can savor the freshness and taste of your Cherry Cake for longer periods. Whether you opt for room temperature storage or prefer freezing for later enjoyment, the key lies in the preservation process. Remember, the way you wrap and thaw your cake can make a significant difference in its overall quality when served. So, go ahead, experiment with these recipes, and relish the delightful flavors of Cherry Cake in every bite.