Growing up, one of my fondest memories revolved around the delightful Shirley Temple drink – a sweet and fizzy concoction that always brought a smile to my face on warm summer days. Inspired by this beloved childhood favorite, I decided to put a twist on it and create a Shirley Temple Cake recipe that captures the essence of the iconic beverage. Made with instant pudding, grenadine, lemon-lime soda, and topped with maraschino cherries, this dessert is a nostalgic nod to the classic Shirley Temple drink.
Just like the original drink, this Shirley Temple Cake is a delightful treat that is moist, tender, and incredibly fun to serve. With the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors from almond extract, lime juice, and grenadine, every bite is a burst of nostalgia. Whether you’re a fan of Shirley Temple drinks or looking for a unique dessert to enjoy during the summer, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups of butter, softened
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups of white or yellow cake mix
- 3 cups of flour
- 2 teaspoons of lemon extract
- ¾ cup of 7Up or any lemon-lime soda
- 1 10 oz jar of maraschino cherries, drained and juice reserved
- 2 cups of confectioners sugar
- Butter
- Lemon-lime Soda
- Milk or Water
- Extract
- Maraschino cherries
Required Equipment
When preparing a Shirley Temple Cake, having the right equipment can make the baking process a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:
Mixing Bowls:
I recommend having a couple of mixing bowls on hand to combine and prepare the cake batter. Make sure they are clean and dry before use.
Electric Mixer:
An electric mixer, either a stand mixer or a hand mixer, will help you achieve a smooth and well-incorporated cake batter. It saves time and ensures even mixing.
Cake Pan:
For baking the Shirley Temple Cake, you’ll need a 10-inch bundt cake pan. Grease the pan before pouring in the batter for easy removal after baking.
Cooling Rack:
After baking the cake, allow it to cool completely on a cooling rack. This helps prevent the cake from becoming soggy on the bottom.
Toothpick:
To test the doneness of the cake, have a toothpick ready. Insert it into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Having these essential pieces of equipment ready will set you up for success in creating a delicious and visually appealing Shirley Temple Cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
In a medium bowl, blend 1 box of white cake mix, 1 small package of vanilla pudding mix, 3/4 cup of 7Up, 4 large eggs, and 3/4 cup of vegetable oil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Baking the Cake
Preheat the oven to 325°F and spray a 10-inch bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, poke holes in the cake and pour the reserved cherry juice over it. Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the glaze.
Making the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, and milk slowly until the desired consistency is reached. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and top with a few maraschino cherries for garnish.
Assembling the Cake
To assemble the Shirley Temple Cake, follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the Cake: Start by ensuring that the cake has completely cooled before assembling. This will prevent the glaze from melting too quickly and ensure a smooth finish.
- Make the Glaze: Prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar, melted butter, lemon-lime soda, and a splash of milk or water in a mixing bowl. Stir until the glaze reaches a smooth and pourable consistency. Adjust the liquid amounts as needed for your desired drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the Glaze: Once the glaze is ready, place your cooled cake on a serving plate or wire rack. Slowly pour the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides naturally. Use a spoon to help spread the glaze evenly if needed.
- Garnish with Cherries: To add the finishing touch, place maraschino cherries on top of the glazed cake. You can use whole cherries or halved cherries for a decorative flair. These cherries will not only enhance the visual appeal of the cake but also provide a burst of fruity flavor.
Storage Tips
After enjoying this delightful Shirley Temple Cake, you may want to store any leftovers properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some handy storage tips to help you preserve the cake for a longer period:
- Room Temperature: If the weather is not too warm, you can store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Ensure that the cake is kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Refrigeration: If the environment is warm or if you’ve added perishable ingredients to the cake, refrigeration is a good option. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap before storing it in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: To extend the shelf life of the cake further, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. This method can help keep the cake fresh for up to three months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, transfer it to the refrigerator the night before to thaw gradually. This process ensures that the cake retains its moisture and texture.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the delicious flavors of the Shirley Temple Cake even days after it’s baked. Proper storage techniques help maintain the cake’s quality and taste, allowing you to indulge in a delightful treat whenever you crave it.
Alternative Variations
When it comes to Shirley Temple cake recipes, there are various alternative variations you can explore to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize the Shirley Temple cake recipe by making the following substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free yogurt, oil, and milk in place of their dairy counterparts to create a dairy-free version of the cake.
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers for a vegan-friendly adaptation.
- Nut-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are nut-free, and avoid using any nuts for garnishing to make the cake safe for those with nut allergies.
Flavor Variations
To add a twist to the classic Shirley Temple cake recipe, consider experimenting with different flavor variations:
- Citrus Infusion: Enhance the citrus notes by adding orange zest or orange extract to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Almond Essence: Incorporate almond extract to provide a subtle nutty undertone that complements the cherries and citrus flavors.
- Coconut Flair: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical touch that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Spiced Sensation: Infuse the cake with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to create a warm and aromatic flavor profile.
- Berry Burst: Introduce fresh or frozen berries into the batter for bursts of fruity goodness with every bite.
Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and flavor variations to create a personalized Shirley Temple cake that suits your dietary needs and taste preferences.
Conclusion
Creating a Shirley Temple Cake is not just about baking; it’s about crafting a nostalgic treat that brings joy to any gathering. With options ranging from gluten-free to vegan, this recipe caters to diverse dietary needs without compromising on flavor. By exploring citrus, almond, coconut, spice, or berry variations, you can personalize your cake to suit your taste preferences perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this Shirley Temple Cake your own signature dessert, ideal for summer celebrations or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. Let your creativity shine through as you bake up this moist and delightful cake that pays homage to the classic Shirley Temple drink.
