Cherry cake is one of those delightful desserts that can brighten up any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, cherry cake is sure to impress. This cake has a moist, tender crumb, bursting with luscious cherry flavor thanks to the cherry pie filling. Top it with cream cheese frosting, and you’ve got a dessert that’s not just tasty but visually appealing as well. Let’s dive deeper into why this cherry cake is a must-try.
Why We Love This Cherry Cake Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with cherry cake. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to create this delightful dessert. The use of a cake mix streamlines the process, saving you time while still delivering on flavor. Not to mention, the combination of almond and vanilla extracts adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the cherries.
Another reason to appreciate this cherry cake is its versatility. It works wonderfully for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to more formal celebrations. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a decadent touch that can elevate the dessert to a whole new level. If you’ve got a sweet tooth or are simply looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious, this cherry cake will tick all the boxes.
Ingredients for Cherry Cake
To make this scrumptious cherry cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 15 ounces white cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
For the Frosting:
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/3 cup cherry pie filling
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- Maraschino cherries with stems
How to Make Cherry Cake
Making cherry cake is a straightforward and rewarding experience. Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F. Prepare your baking pan by spraying or lightly greasing a 13 x 9 baking pan. This step is crucial to ensure your cake doesn’t stick to the pan.
Next, take a measuring cup and set aside 1/3 cup of cherry pie filling for the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, almond extract, and the remaining cherry pie filling. When mixing, start on low speed to incorporate the ingredients, then increase to medium speed and beat until the mixture is creamy, which should take about one minute.
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared pan. Level it out with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake the cake for approximately 45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process is vital; don’t be in a rush to frost it while it is still warm, as the frosting will not set correctly.
While your cake is cooling, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add in the set-aside cherry pie filling, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Gradually introduce the powdered sugar until your frosting reaches a spreading consistency. Once your frosting is ready, keep it refrigerated until you are ready to frost your cooled cake.
When the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a fun finishing touch, garnish each slice with a stemmed maraschino cherry if desired. This adds a pop of color and an extra hint of cherry flavor, inviting anyone to take a slice!
How to Serve Cherry Cake
Serving cherry cake is as enjoyable as making it. When it’s time to present this delicious dessert, consider cutting it into generous squares to showcase its beautiful appearance. Place each piece on a dessert plate, and if you’re a cherry lover, don’t forget to add those maraschino cherries on top.
Cherry cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. Consider serving it alongside a hot beverage, like coffee or tea, which balances the sweetness of the cake. No matter how you choose to serve your cherry cake, it’s bound to be a hit among your family and friends.
Expert Tips for Baking Cherry Cake
To ensure that your cherry cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting. Fresh eggs and high-quality extracts will significantly improve the flavor of your cake.
Avoid Overmixing: While it’s essential to mix until the batter is smooth, overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and a well-risen cake.
Cooling Time: Patience is key. Allow the cake to cool fully in the pan before adding frosting. If you try to frost a warm cake, your frosting could melt and slide off.
Experiment with Frosting: If cream cheese is not your favorite, you can substitute it with whipped topping or buttercream for a lighter finish.
By following these tips, you will elevate your cherry cake from delightful to extraordinary.
How to Store Cherry Cake
Storing your cherry cake correctly will help maintain its moistness and flavor over time. Once the cake is frosted, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can store your cherry cake in the refrigerator for up to five days, although the taste is best enjoyed within the first couple of days.
If you’re planning to keep the cake for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice of your cherry cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations of Cherry Cake
One of the beautiful aspects of cherry cake is its adaptability. Here are some enjoyable variations that you can try to put a new spin on this classic dessert:
Chocolate Cherry Cake: For a decadent twist, swap out some of the white cake mix for chocolate cake mix. Pair it with a chocolate cream cheese frosting and cherry pie filling for a rich flavor combination.
Nutty Addition: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the batter for an added crunch and flavor. This could provide a delightful contrast to the soft cake and creamy frosting.
Berry Medley: Mix different berries into the batter alongside the cherry pie filling. Blueberries or raspberries can add vibrant flavors and create a colorful dessert.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the batter for a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries. This addition will brighten up the overall profile of the cake.
Coconut Cream: Add shredded coconut to both the cake batter and frosting to create a tropical twist. The combination of cherry and coconut can offer a unique, delightful taste experience.
Exploring these variations allows you to tailor the cherry cake to fit your flavor preferences and any special occasion.
FAQ
What is Cherry Cake?
Cherry cake is a delightful dessert made primarily with white cake mix, cherry pie filling, and flavored extracts. It’s topped with cream cheese frosting that enhances its rich, fruity flavor.
How long does Cherry Cake last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, cherry cake can last about five days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—up to three months if wrapped well.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just ensure you pit and chop them first. You’ll need to adjust the sweetness and moisture levels since fresh cherries are less concentrated than pie filling.
Is Cherry Cake suitable for celebrations?
Absolutely! Cherry cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, and any gathering, adding a festive touch and a burst of flavor that everyone will love.
Can I make Cherry Cake gluten-free?
You can substitute regular cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and follow the same instructions. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the cake without any worry!
Cherry Cake
Equipment
- 13×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
Cake
- 15 ounces white cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling reserve 1/3 cup for frosting
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/3 cup cherry pie filling reserved from earlier
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Optional Garnish
- maraschino cherries with stems for topping slices
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
- Set aside 1/3 cup of cherry pie filling for the frosting.
- In a large bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, almond extract, and the remaining cherry pie filling. Start mixing on low speed, then increase to medium and beat until creamy, about 1 minute.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the reserved 1/3 cup of cherry pie filling, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Keep refrigerated until ready to use.
- Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Garnish each slice with a maraschino cherry, if desired.