Delicious Maraschino Cherry Cake Recipe

Imagine a slice of heaven on your plate, with a rosy color that promises a sweet, nostalgic taste. That’s what a maraschino cherry cake is like. As you take a bite, memories of happy birthdays and family times come back. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a trip back in time.

Maraschino cherry cake is more than a treat; it’s an experience. Every bite takes you to a world where pink tastes like cherries. This recipe is about making joy, one slice at a time.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe will make you a dessert star. It’s a mix of textures and tastes, from the moist cake to the creamy frosting. And it’s all topped with cherry jewels. Get ready for a baking adventure that will make your taste buds happy and your guests want more.

Key Takeaways

• Serves up to 16 people, perfect for gatherings
• Total prep time is about 1.5 hours
• Uses common pantry staples for convenience
• Bakes at 350°F for 28-30 minutes
• Can be stored for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months
• Customizable with various flavors and mix-ins
• Features a delightful pink hue and cherry pieces throughout

Introduction to This Vintage Cherry Dessert

Step back in time with the old fashioned maraschino cherry cake. It’s a dessert that brings nostalgia to every bite. This classic treat has been a favorite in America for generations, loved for its sweet and tangy flavors.

History of Maraschino Cherry Cake

The maraschino cherry cake has its roots in the early 20th century. It became popular as maraschino cherries did, made from Royal Ann, Gold, or Rainier cherries. These cherries are preserved and sweetened, making the perfect topping for this beloved cake.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Our maraschino cherry cake recipe is special because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s not too sweet, unlike some versions. This cake offers a harmonious mix of cherry sweetness and moist cake. It’s a modern twist on the classic, with a fresher taste but keeping the original’s charm.

Traditional vs Modern Variations

Our recipe uses real maraschino cherries for an authentic taste, unlike some old recipes. Modern recipes have evolved, with variations like cherry chip cakes or cherry-filled cupcakes. But our recipe stays true to its roots, using modern baking techniques for the best results.

Whether you’re craving a taste of the past or looking for a timeless dessert, this maraschino cherry cake will impress. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to make this delightful treat!

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

Making a maraschino cherry cake with white cake mix is simple. This classic dessert uses basic ingredients and tools for a beautiful result. Let’s explore what you need to make this treat.

Key Cake Components

The main ingredient is maraschino cherries. Yes, you can use them in baking! They bring flavor and color to your cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 box white cake mix
• 8 ounces (227g) maraschino cherries, chopped
• 1/3 cup (80g) reserved cherry juice
• 1/4 cup (57g) melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2/3 cup (160g) buttermilk

Frosting Ingredients

For a cherry-flavored frosting, gather these items:

• 5-6 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons reserved cherry juice
• Pink or red food coloring (optional)

Required Baking Tools

To make your cake perfect, you’ll need:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

What can you do with maraschino cherries? They’re great in cocktails, as ice cream toppings, or in fruit salads. The options are endless!

With these ingredients and tools, you’re set to make a delicious maraschino cherry cake. It serves 10-12 people. Happy baking!

Maraschino Cherry Cake

Get ready to make a delicious maraschino cherry cake that will wow everyone! This moist cherry cake recipe mixes classic tastes with a fresh twist. It takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes to make, including prep, baking, and cooling.

First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need 1 ¾ cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon each of baking soda and salt. For the wet ingredients, get ⅔ cup buttermilk, ⅓ cup reserved cherry juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. And don’t forget 8 ounces of maraschino cherries with stems removed!

In a bowl, mix 1 cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup softened butter, and ¼ cup canola oil. Add 2 room-temperature eggs one at a time. Then, mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the wet ingredients. Fold in the chopped cherries last.

Pour the batter into two 9-inch round pans. Bake at 325°F for about 25 minutes. Once cooled, frost your cake with a cherry-flavored buttercream made from powdered sugar, butter, and cherry juice.

“This maraschino cherry cake is a slice of nostalgia with every bite. It’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up!”

For chocolate fans, try adding cocoa powder to the batter. This versatile recipe serves 12. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Professional Baking Tips and Techniques

Baking a perfect cherry cake needs focus and some special techniques. Let’s explore some expert tips to boost your baking skills. These will help you make a tasty maraschino cherry cake.

Preventing Cherries from Sinking

Many bakers wonder how to stop cherries from sinking in cake. The answer is in preparation. Lightly dust your cherries with flour before mixing them into the batter. This creates a layer that keeps them floating in the cake.

Using Maraschino cherries is another smart move. They are lighter than fresh cherries, which helps them stay afloat.

Proper Mixing Methods

To get a light texture, cream butter and sugar for 1 to 1½ minutes on high speed. When adding dry ingredients, mix just until they’re combined. This avoids a tough cake.

This method ensures your cherry cake stays tender and fluffy.

Temperature Guidelines

Bake your cake at 350°F for 28 to 30 minutes. Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Wondering if you can use Maraschino cherries instead of glazed ones? Yes, you can! They add a bright color to your cake.

The secret to a great cherry cake is in the details. By following these tips, you’ll make a dessert that will impress everyone.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Are you ready to make a tasty maraschino cherry cake from scratch? Let’s begin! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat helps your cake bake evenly and get a nice golden crust.

Now, gather your ingredients. You’ll need:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cups softened unsalted butter
• 0.5 cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1.5 tsp baking powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.5 cups chopped maraschino cherries

Start by mixing the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Don’t forget to fold in the maraschino cherries.

Put the batter in a greased 9-inch cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack to cool fully.

If you want a vegan maraschino cherry cake, just replace the butter with vegan margarine, eggs with applesauce, and milk with a plant-based milk. The baking steps stay the same, making a yummy treat for everyone.

Creating the Perfect Cherry Frosting

The cherry frosting is the crowning glory of your maraschino cherry cake. Let’s explore how to make it irresistible and eye-catching. This frosting complements the cake’s flavors and adds a delightful visual appeal to your artsy chic cake recipes.

Buttercream Option

A classic buttercream is a popular choice for maraschino cherry cake filling. Mix 3 cups of powdered sugar, ½ cup softened butter, ¼ cup milk, and 2 tablespoons of cherry juice. Whip until light and fluffy. This frosting yields enough for 15 cupcakes, each containing about 382 calories.

Seven-Minute Frosting Alternative

For a lighter option, try a seven-minute frosting. Combine egg whites, sugar, and cherry juice in a double boiler. Beat for 7 minutes until stiff peaks form. This airy frosting pairs well with candied cherries for decoration.

Decorating Techniques

To achieve a smooth finish, use a bench scraper or offset spatula. For decorative piping, fill a pastry bag with frosting and create swirls or rosettes. Incorporate almond flavors by adding a drop of almond extract to your frosting. Garnish with whole maraschino cherries or sprinkle with crushed candied cherries for extra texture.

Remember, unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and add your cherry frosting for a fresh taste. With these tips, your maraschino cherry cake will be a showstopper at any gathering.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Keep your Maraschino Cherry Cake fresh by storing it right. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Want to prepare ahead for holiday treats? You can make parts of this cake early. Bake the cake layers up to 2 days before and store them at room temperature, wrapped tightly. The frosting can be made a day before and chilled. Let it warm up to room temperature before you use it.

For adult gatherings, add a twist to this classic. Brush each cake layer with cherry liqueur before frosting for a special touch. This makes the cake great for fancy parties.

Proper storage keeps your Maraschino Cherry Cake moist and tasty. It’s ready to wow at any time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The Maraschino Cherry Cake recipe is very flexible. You can change it to fit your taste and dietary needs. Try different pans, fruits, and ingredients to make your own special version of this classic dessert.

Different Pan Sizes

The original recipe makes a bundt cake for 12-16 people. But you can make it for other pan sizes too:

• Two 8-inch or 9-inch round/square pans: Bake for 22-27 minutes
• 9×13 rectangular pan: Bake for 21-26 minutes
• Dark or non-stick pans: Reduce temperature to 325°F (163°C)

Fruit Alternatives

You can use other fruits instead of maraschino cherries. This idea comes from Italian cuisine and fruit-based cakes:

• Fresh pineapple: Use 1 cup of pineapple juice mixed with water
• Peaches or apricots for a summery twist
• Mixed berries for a burst of color and flavor

Dietary Modifications

Make the recipe fit different diets:

• Gluten-free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend
• Dairy-free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk
• Reduced-sugar: Use a natural sweetener like applesauce or mashed bananas

By trying these variations, you can make a dessert that’s both traditional and modern. It’s perfect for any special occasion.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Making the perfect cherry cake recipe can be tricky. Even experienced bakers face challenges. Let’s explore some common issues and solutions to ensure your cherry cake turns out delicious every time.

One frequent problem is sinking cherries. To prevent this, try coating the cherries in flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the cake. Another tip is to use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter that holds the cherries better.

If your cake turns out dry, it might be overbaked. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature and check for doneness a few minutes before the recipe suggests. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.

For frosting difficulties, make sure your cake is completely cool before applying. If it’s not, the frosting will melt and slide off. To achieve the perfect consistency, add liquid or powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired texture.

Remember, the baking process can be affected by various factors. If your cake doesn’t turn out as expected, don’t despair. You can always transform it into a trifle or cake pops!

When slicing your cherry cake, use a sharp knife for clean cuts through the tender, moist crumb. This will help maintain the cake’s structure and presentation.

“Baking is both an art and a science. Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from each attempt.”

By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful cherry cake recipe. You’ll impress your family and friends with your baking skills.

Conclusion

Baking a maraschino cherry cake is a journey into sweet delights. This classic dessert, with its bright red cherries and soft texture, is a hit. It’s perfect for any occasion or just to make a regular day special.

The secret to a great maraschino cherry cake is in the details. Use soft butter and make sure to drain and chop the cherries right. The right mix of ingredients, like 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of sugar, makes it tender and sweet.

Feel free to try new things with this recipe. Change the pan size or use different fruits for a unique twist. You can make it into a layer cake or cupcakes. This dessert’s flexibility will inspire you in the kitchen.

So, heat your oven to 350°F, collect your ingredients, and start baking. You’ll make a treat that everyone will love. Happy baking!