This Cherry Cake is soft, buttery, and filled with juicy cherries in every bite. Whether you’re using fresh, frozen, or maraschino cherries, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for tea time, brunch, or as a simple yet stunning dessert.
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk or buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh, frozen, or maraschino—quartered if large)
1 tablespoon flour (for tossing cherries)
For the Glaze (Optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square baking pan (or line with parchment paper).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.
Add the flour mixture in two additions, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
Toss the chopped cherries with 1 tablespoon of flour (prevents sinking). Gently fold them into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Whisk powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice and extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle glaze for a simple finish.
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Top with extra cherries or slivered almonds.
If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.
For a pink hue, use maraschino cherry juice in place of some milk.
Almond extract pairs beautifully with cherry—add ¼ tsp for extra depth.
Skipping the flour coating on cherries – they’ll sink to the bottom.
Overmixing the batter – can make the cake dense.
Not adjusting bake time for different pan sizes—test with a toothpick.
Store at room temperature (covered) for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days—bring to room temp before serving
Freeze slices (wrapped well) for up to 2 months; thaw and enjoy
Enjoy your Cherry Cake—sweet, soft, and beautifully fruity!
Find it online: https://bakesbliss.com/cherry-cake/