I have such a soft spot for cakes that offer both beauty and flavor, and this Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is a total showstopper! I still remember the first time I made it for my best friend’s birthday. The way her eyes lit up when she saw that vibrant, pink frosting layered between fluffy cake layers was simply priceless. Not only is this cake a feast for the eyes, but it also tastes like biting into a bowl of fresh cherries on a warm summer day.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking the time to create a cake from scratch—each layer tells a story of love, patience, and a little bit of kitchen magic. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your friends (or yourself!), this cherry cake will be the highlight of your dessert table. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
What’s in Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting?
Flour: All-purpose flour is the backbone of this cake, giving it that perfect soft texture. I recommend using a brand you trust; my go-to is King Arthur Flour for its consistent quality.
Sugar: Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to an airy texture. Remember, it’s crucial to cream it well with the butter until fluffy for the best results!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor and moistness to the cake. I always use real butter over margarine, as it truly makes a difference in taste.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and add moisture. I prefer using large eggs; they work best for this recipe.
Milk: Whole milk produces a tender crumb and rich taste. You can substitute with buttermilk for a slight tanginess if you prefer!
Cherries: Fresh or frozen pitted cherries bring a burst of flavor. Fresh is always best if they’re in season, but frozen cherries (thawed) work well too.
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the frosting! It adds that creamy texture and delicious tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.
Powdered Sugar: A must for frosting; it sweetens and stabilizes the cream cheese.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor. I recommend steering clear of imitation; it’s worth it for the real stuff.
Cherry Juice: Use the juice from your cherries for the frosting—it’s like capturing summer in a bottle!
Is Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting Good for You?
While this cake is definitely a treat, it does have some redeeming qualities!
Cherries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants, which are great for heart health and can help reduce inflammation. Plus, they’re a good source of vitamins A and C—so there’s that!
Cream Cheese: It’s a source of calcium and protein, but remember that moderation is key. Too much cream cheese means too much fat, so enjoy this frosting in reasonable amounts.
However, this cake does come with sugar and fat, so I wouldn’t categorize it as health food. Just think of it as a well-deserved indulgence!
Ingredients List:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– ¼ cup cherry juice (from the cherries)
**Servings:** About 12 generous slices
How to Make Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, sift the flour and baking powder together. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the cherries, making sure not to overmix. You want those lovely bits of cherry to be visible!
6. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cherry juice, mixing until fluffy and well combined.
9. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cherry cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10. Optional: Decorate the cake with fresh cherries on top or some cherry preserves for an extra touch!
Delicious Variations and Tips for the Perfect Cake!
– Feel free to switch it up! You can use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a berry layer cake.
– If you find the frosting too sweet, add a bit of lemon or lime juice for a tangy kick.
– This cake keeps well in the fridge for about a week, but trust me, it won’t last that long around friends and family!
I hope you give this Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting a try! It’s such a fun recipe to whip up, and it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and your own tricks—I love hearing how my friends put their spin on things! Happy baking!
