Introduction
Cherry cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with a moist, fluffy cake. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe showcases the beauty of fresh cherries, bringing a burst of color and flavor to your table. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this cherry cake is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh pitted cherries
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delicious cherry cake is approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to gather your ingredients and prepare the batter.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the cake is around 30 to 35 minutes, resulting in a total time of about 1 hour from start to finish. This recipe yields a delightful cake that serves about 8 to 10 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or dessert parties. Enjoy this cherry cake fresh out of the oven, or let it cool for a delicious treat later on!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation of the Cherries
Begin by pitting the cherries. If you are using fresh cherries, ensure they are washed thoroughly. Once pitted, chop the cherries into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
Preparing the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Adding Cherries to the Batter
Carefully fold in the chopped cherries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cake tin by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Once the cake has cooled, you can serve it as is or dust it with powdered sugar. It pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Notes
Cherry Selection
Feel free to use either fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them before adding to the batter.
Storage Instructions
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it.
Flavor Enhancements
You may add a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with cherries.
Variations
This recipe can be adapted by using different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries, keeping the same method and proportions.