Vanilla Cherry Cake Recipe

BySarah Lynn

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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