Maraschino Cherry Cake Recipe

Maraschino cherry cake is a delightful and colorful dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any day of the week. Made with moist and tender cake layers infused with the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries and topped with creamy frosting, this cake is sure to impress. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk, if needed

For Garnish (optional):

• Maraschino cherries, whole or halved

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
9. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Frosting:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Beat in the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Assembly:

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand.
2. Spread a layer of frosting over the top of the cake layer.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
4. Garnish the top of the cake with whole or halved maraschino cherries, if desired.
5. Slice and serve the maraschino cherry cake, and enjoy!

Tips:

• Make sure to properly drain the maraschino cherries before chopping them to prevent the cake batter from becoming too wet.
• For a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a few drops of cherry extract to the cake batter and frosting.
• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:

Maraschino cherry cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist and tender cake layers infused with the sweet flavor of maraschino cherries and creamy frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served at a birthday party, holiday celebration, or weekend gathering, maraschino cherry cake is a delicious treat that everyone will love.