I have a special place in my heart for cherry cake. There’s something about the sweet and tart cherries that brings back fond memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. Today, I want to share my favorite Simple Cherry Cake Recipe with you. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Why Cherry Cake is a Classic
Cherry cake has been a beloved dessert for generations. The combination of fluffy cake and juicy cherries creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. I remember my grandmother baking cherry cake every summer when cherries were in season. The smell of cherries and vanilla wafting through the house was simply irresistible.
Ingredients for Cherry Cake Recipe
To make this Simple Cherry Cake, you will need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted and halved
- A pinch of salt
How to Make Simple Cherry Cake
Making this cake is a breeze. Here’s how to get started:
- Preheat the Oven: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a soft cake.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the Cherries: Gently fold in the cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Baking Your Cherry Cake
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to bake:
- Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Ideas
Cherry cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it in several ways:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for a delightful treat.
- Pair with Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cherry cake, creating a comforting dessert.
Storing
If you have any leftovers (which is rare), here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: You can keep the cake at room temperature for 2-3 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate: If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to cover it well.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container.
Tips
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this cake even better:
- Use Fresh Cherries: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cherries. They add a burst of flavor that canned cherries can’t match.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
Variations to Try
If you want to switch things up, here are some fun variations:
- Add Almond Extract: A splash of almond extract can enhance the cherry flavor beautifully.
- Use Different Fruits: Try substituting cherries with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist.
- Make it Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate cherry cake.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Simple Cherry Cake Recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, and the flavor combination is simply delightful. Every bite is a reminder of sunny days and sweet memories. I love sharing this cake with friends and family, and I know you will too.
Baking this cherry cake brings back so many cherished memories for me. I love how a simple dessert can make such happiness. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a regular day, this cake is sure to brighten your table.