Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet, tart flavor of cherries with a rich and creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself. With its bright cherry flavor and fluffy texture, this cake is sure to impress everyone.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting. First, it’s simple and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Second, the combination of cherries and cream cheese creates a delicious balance of flavors. Lastly, it’s visually appealing and makes a great centerpiece for any dessert table. Plus, who can resist a cake that’s topped with cherries?

How to Make Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Making Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is easy and fun! Just follow these simple steps to create a delicious cake that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (for frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Optional: 2-3 drops red food coloring
Garnish: Whole maraschino cherries, grated chocolate, or sprinkles

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a measuring cup, combine the milk and maraschino cherry juice.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk-cherry juice mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired.
To assemble the cake, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Garnish with whole maraschino cherries and optional toppings.

How to Serve Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Cherry Cake is best served at room temperature. Cut the cake into slices and serve it with some extra cherries on the side for those who like a little more cherry goodness. It goes well with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

To store your Cherry Cake, keep it in an airtight container. It can be left at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Tips to Make Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing; this helps create a smooth batter and frosting.
If you like a stronger cherry flavor, add more chopped cherries to the batter or use cherry extract.
Use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim the tops of your cakes for a more even stacking.

Variation

You can try adding nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, to the cake for a different texture. Another fun twist is to incorporate a layer of chocolate or vanilla pudding between the cake layers for extra creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding them to the batter.

2. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute dairy ingredients with dairy-free alternatives, such as almond milk and vegan cream cheese, for a dairy-free version of this cake.

Enjoy baking this delightful Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting!