Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Imagine sinking your fork into a velvety slice of Cherry Layer Cake, each bite bursting with juicy cherry flavor and creamy frosting that dances on your taste buds. The delightful combination of moist cake layers paired with rich cream cheese frosting is nothing short of dessert perfection.

Growing up, my grandma would whip up this Cherry Layer Cake for every family gathering. I can still hear her laughter as she’d shoo us away from the kitchen while we impatiently waited for the cake to cool. “Good things come to those who wait!” she’d say, which we all knew was code for “You’re going to need some serious willpower not to eat this frosting straight from the bowl!”

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Its unique flavor profile combines tart cherries with sweet cream cheese, creating a delightful contrast. Visually, it’s a showstopper, boasting vibrant layers that are sure to impress at any gathering. Plus, you can customize it with different fruit toppings or fillings, so feel free to get creative!

Ingredients for Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:

All-purpose flour This versatile flour provides structure to the cake while keeping it light and fluffy. Ensure it’s fresh and properly measured for best results.

Sugar Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and adds moisture. Using fine sugar ensures even mixing and helps achieve that perfect crumb.

Baking powder This leavening agent helps the cake rise beautifully, creating soft layers that are ideal for stacking.

Salt Just a pinch enhances flavors without making the cake taste salty. It balances sweetness and brings out the cherry notes.

Unsalted butter Room temperature butter adds richness and moisture to your cake while ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.

Eggs Eggs provide structure and stability, making your cake light yet firm enough to hold its layers.

Whole milk Adding moisture while keeping the cake tender; it’s best at room temperature so it blends seamlessly into the batter.

Cherry preserves These deliciously sweet preserves infuse each layer with intense cherry flavor—our secret weapon! Look for high-quality options without additives.

Cream cheese Essential for our frosting! Use softened cream cheese to achieve that light and creamy texture everyone craves in a good frosting.

Powdered sugar This finely ground sugar helps create a smooth and sweet frosting that’s easy to spread over your cake without being grainy.

Sour cream Adds tanginess and moisture to the frosting, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cherries!

Semi-sweet chocolate shavings (optional) For an elegant garnish that adds rich depth; they pair beautifully with cherries!

Step-by-Step Preparation Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare this delicious recipe:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray or butter and line them with parchment paper. This will ensure our cherry-filled creation comes out easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This dry mix will help create our fluffy layers.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together ¾ cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. You want it airy enough so it feels like you’re whipping clouds!

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs & Milk

Add in 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Slowly pour in 1 cup whole milk until everything is combined smoothly. Your batter should look like silky heaven!

Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Now fold in ½ cup cherry preserves; this is where we get our lovely cherry flavor throughout.

Step 6: Bake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks.

Step 7: Make Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cakes cool down, make your frosting by beating together 8 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), and 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth. Then mix in ½ cup sour cream until everything is perfectly blended.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of your frosting over this layer followed by more cherry preserves if desired—because why not? Top with the second layer and frost generously around the sides too.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

For an optional touch of elegance (and extra deliciousness), sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate shavings on top or decorate with fresh cherries if you prefer! Slice generously and serve immediately to enjoy every last crumb.

Your Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready! Each slice promises joy wrapped in nostalgia, perfect for any occasion or just when you need a slice of happiness in your day! Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting, start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pans. Mix your dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients gradually for a smooth batter. Bake until golden brown and let cool completely before frosting.

Add Your Personal Touch

Feel free to swap out the cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a twist in flavor. You could also use low-fat cream cheese to lighten up the Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting while keeping that creamy texture intact!

Storage & Reheating

To maintain the delightful texture of your Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge. If you have leftovers, keep the frosting separate to prevent sogginess until you’re ready to serve.

Helpful Chef Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter; this helps them combine better and rise evenly.

Don’t skip cooling your cake layers completely—frosting warm layers can lead to drippy disasters.

When frosting, use a spatula dipped in hot water for a smoother finish; it works wonders!

I still remember the joy on my friend’s face when I surprised her with this Cherry Layer Cake at her birthday party—it was love at first bite!

Conclusion for Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

In conclusion, the Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cherries and creamy frosting. This recipe not only offers a visually stunning dessert but also ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. Making this cake is a perfect way to impress your family and friends during any celebration or casual gathering. Don’t miss out on the chance to create this scrumptious cake in your kitchen! Try it today and elevate your dessert game.

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FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned for the frosting?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cherries for the frosting. Fresh cherries will add a vibrant flavor to your Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting. Just make sure to pit and chop them into small pieces before mixing them into the frosting for an even distribution.

How should I store my Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting?

To maintain freshness, store your Cherry Layer Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to five days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cherry Layer Cake ahead of time. Bake the layers and cool them completely before wrapping them tightly and storing them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Frost just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and smooth.

What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a thick plant-based yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting. This will still give you that creamy texture without compromising on flavor while making your Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting deliciously smooth.