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Delight in the delectable combination of light, airy vanilla cake interspersed with bursts of juicy cherries in this Vanilla Cherry Cake. This recipe produces a visually stunning dessert, perfect for any celebration or as a summertime treat. With its lush layers and sweet cherry filling, this cake offers a classic flavor profile that will enchant friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, the Vanilla Cherry Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To bake this delicious Vanilla Cherry Cake, you will need:
- For the Vanilla Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
- Granulated Sugar: 1 ½ cups
- Baking Powder: 2 ½ teaspoons
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened
- Eggs: 4, large
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Milk: 1 cup
- For the Cherry Filling:
- Fresh or Frozen Cherries: 2 cups, pitted and halved
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- For the Vanilla Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened
- Powdered Sugar: 3-4 cups, sifted
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Heavy Cream: 2-4 tablespoons, as needed for consistency
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Cherry Filling:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 10 minutes). Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Vanilla Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Adjust consistency with heavy cream, adding one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cherry filling over the top, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent spilling.
- Top with the second cake layer and apply a crumb coat of vanilla frosting to the entire cake. Chill for 30 minutes to set the crumbs.
- After chilling, apply a final coat of frosting, smoothing the sides and top.
- Decorate:
- Garnish with additional cherries, fresh or candied, and perhaps some decorative swirls or sprinkles on top.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It’s best to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to soften the frosting.
Add-On Suggestions
- Chocolate Chips: Fold chocolate chips into the cake batter for a chocolate-cherry variation.
- Almond Extract: Replace some of the vanilla extract with almond extract in both the cake and the frosting for a nutty flavor that pairs well with cherries.
FAQs
Q: Can I use jarred or canned cherries? A: Yes, you can use jarred or canned cherries if fresh or frozen are not available. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar as they may be sweeter.
Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free? A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Health Considerations
While Vanilla Cherry Cake is a delicious indulgence, it is high in sugars and fats. Enjoy it on special occasions or in moderation within a balanced diet.
Vanilla Cherry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the softness of vanilla cake with the juicy sweetness of cherries, wrapped up in a creamy