Experience the joy of baking with this scrumptious cherry cake. With its moist texture and vibrant cherry flavor, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration. Whether for a birthday, a family gathering, or simply as a sweet treat, this cherry cake is sure to impress. Follow our simple recipe and enjoy a slice of happiness!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is based on individual serving sizes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
8. Fold in the fresh cherries gently.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
11. Let it cool before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cherries with frozen ones, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
Serving and Pairings
This cherry cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy cold.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
- Using too much flour can make the cake dense.
- Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake.
- Not properly greasing the pan can cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling time can result in a crumbly cake.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Gently fold in the cherries to avoid breaking them.
- Experiment with almond extract for a unique flavor.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for presentation.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, you can use blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches as alternatives to cherries. They will add a different flavor but still taste great.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. If it comes out wet, it needs more time.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use applesauce, mashed bananas, or a commercial egg replacer as substitutes for eggs in this recipe.
How should I serve the cake?
Serve the cake at room temperature, optionally topped with fresh cherries and whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Conclusion
This cherry cake is a delightful addition to any dessert table. Its moist, flavorful layers and fresh cherries create a perfect balance of sweetness. Enjoy making and sharing this cake with family and friends, creating sweet memories one slice at a time.
Cherry Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh cherries pitted
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Fold in the fresh cherries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
