Hey there, sweet tooth friends! If you’re anything like me, you absolutely adore a deliciously dreamy cake that makes any occasion special. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Cherry Layer Cake recipe with you. It’s fluffy, colorful, and layered with a luscious cherry cream cheese frosting that’s just downright irresistible. Trust me, this cake is perfect for birthdays, summer picnics, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day! Let’s dive into the world of cherries and cake together!
Nutritional Benefits of Cherries
Before we get into baking, let’s chat about the amazing benefits of cherries. These vibrant fruits are not just pretty to look at; they’re packed with nutrients! Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and can even boost your mood. Plus, they’re a good source of vitamins A and C. So, when you indulge in this cherry layer cake, know that you’re getting a little fruit goodness along with all that delicious cake!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Gluten-Free Twist: If you need to avoid gluten, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free flour blend. You won’t lose the fluffy texture!
- Berry Swaps: Not in the mood for cherries? Try raspberries or blueberriess instead for a whole new flavor experience!
- Lighten It Up: Want a lighter version? Use low-fat cream cheese in the frosting and sugar substitutes to cut back on calories without sacrificing taste!
Cherry Layer Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or jarred cherries, pitted and chopped
- For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cherry juice or purée
- A handful of cherries for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix until the batter is smooth. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
- Divide the batter evenly among the three pans, then bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Pour in the cherry juice or purée and mix until combine. Adjust sweetness with more sugar if necessary!
Assemble the Cake
- Once your cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a cake plate or stand.
- Spoon some cherry frosting on top, then add the second layer, repeating the process.
- Finally, top with the last layer and cover the entire cake with frosting.
- Decorate with whole cherries if you like for that gorgeous finishing touch!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- To ensure your cakes are even, weigh the batter for each pan using a kitchen scale.
- If your cake layers are dome-shaped, gently level them with a serrated knife for a neat look.
- This cake can be made a day ahead! Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
Gather these kitchen tools to make your baking experience smooth and fun:
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- A mixing bowl and a hand mixer (or a stand mixer if you have one)
- A whisk and measuring cups
- A cooling rack
- A cake spatula for frosting
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh? Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.
- How long can I store this cake? It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days, if it lasts that long!
- Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Just split it between two batches if your mixer can’t handle the amount.
- Is there a substitute for cream cheese frosting? Sure! You can use whipped cream or a buttercream frosting if you prefer!
- What can I pair this cake with? It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side!
So, are you ready to whip up this beautiful Cherry Layer Cake? I hope you have as much fun making it as I do! If you give it a try, I’d love to know how it turned out for you. Join me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and let’s share our culinary adventures together!
