What makes the perfect dessert even better? A hint of cherry on top of a moist homemade cake smothered in white frosting. This easy recipe features fresh cherries and a simple baking method. Save this idea for your next family favorite treat to try soon

two pictures of a cake with white frosting and cherries on the top one has a slice missing from it

Introduction

This delectable cake, adorned with a generous helping of white frosting and cherries, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a masterpiece of flavors. The combination of moist cake, sweet and tangy cherries, and the creamy richness of white frosting creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and indulgent. What’s more, this cake is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for such an impressive outcome. Using everyday ingredients and a straightforward recipe, anyone can create this stunning dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors and the ease of finding its ingredients. Each component, from the cake to the frosting and cherries, complements the others perfectly, creating a harmonious taste experience.
Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is relatively simple to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and with a bit of patience, anyone can achieve professional-looking results.
Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a cake that looks like it was plucked straight from a bakery, making it perfect for impressing guests or as a centerpiece for any gathering.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this cake include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract for the cake, and heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla for the frosting. Maraschino cherries add the final pop of color and flavor. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk for those with dietary restrictions, or using different types of sugar for slightly different flavor profiles.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: For the frosting, whip heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Gradually add powdered sugar, whipping until stiff peaks form. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well. Once the cakes are completely cool, you can frost them. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 4: Finally, decorate the top of the cake with maraschino cherries. You can arrange them in a pattern or simply place them on top for a more rustic look. Your cake is now ready to be served and enjoyed.

Handy Tips

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a lighter cake texture. Also, don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. If you find your frosting too thin, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before using.

Heat Control

For the cake, it’s essential to maintain an oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) for even baking. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cakes after 20 minutes and check them every 5 minutes thereafter until they’re done. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.

Crunch Factor

The texture of this cake should be moist and tender, with a slight crunch from the cherries on top. To achieve this, make sure not to overbake the cake. The frosting should be smooth and creamy, providing a nice contrast to the cake’s texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

To ensure your cake layers are even, bake them for the same amount of time and check them frequently towards the end of the baking time. For a more professional finish, chill the frosted cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Storage Tips

The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to do so without the frosting. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen cake can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cakes overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, especially during holidays or special occasions. Consider placing the cake on a decorative cake stand or plate, and wrap it with clear plastic wrap or a large piece of cellophane. You can tie a ribbon around the stand or plate for a more personalized touch. If you’re transporting the cake, ensure it’s securely placed in a cake box to prevent damage.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cake batter can give the cake a unique flavor twist.
Creative toppings: Instead of maraschino cherries, you could use sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even chocolate shavings to top the cake.
Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, consider swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use different types of milk or cream for the frosting to cater to dietary needs.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. For a lighter texture, mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, look for substitutions that offer similar properties. For example, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cake while it’s baking. If it’s undercooked, it will be soggy in the center. If it’s overcooked, it will be dry and possibly cracked on top.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it’s recommended to do so without the frosting. Wrap the cake tightly and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Is it gluten-free? The original recipe is not gluten-free, but you can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have enough pans and adjust the baking time as necessary, keeping a close eye on the cakes to prevent overbaking.

Conclusion

Creating this stunning cake with white frosting and cherries on top is a rewarding experience that combines ease of preparation with impressive results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to indulge your creativity and satisfy your sweet tooth. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the cake truly yours. Remember, the key to a great cake is in the details, from using quality ingredients to paying attention to texture and presentation. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be making professional-looking cakes that are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Cherry Cake White Frosting