Ingredients
For the Cherry Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry)
For the Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
- A few drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
- Extra cherries for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped cherries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cake cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in cherry juice and food coloring (if using) until creamy and pink.
- Spread frosting over the cooled cake.
3. Decorate:
- Top with whole or halved cherries for a beautiful finish.
Enjoy this sweet, fruity treat—perfect for birthdays, tea time, or any cherry-lover’s craving! 🍰🍒
Want a cupcake version too? Let me know!