Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something magical about the sweet burst of cherries nestled inside a tender cake and then topped with a dreamy swirl of cherry cream cheese frosting. This cake is soft, moist, and full of flavor, with a balance of sweet and tangy that will have everyone reaching for a second slice. The frosting is silky and indulgent, kissed with cherry essence that makes every bite taste like pure joy. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s the kind of cake that feels like a celebration all on its own.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of a love for summer cherries and family gatherings where cakes were the centerpiece of the table. I remember watching my grandmother fold juicy cherries into batter with such care, making sure each slice held a ruby surprise inside. Over the years, I’ve modernized her classic by adding a cherry-infused cream cheese frosting, giving the cake a touch of decadence while still keeping it comforting and homey. It’s a recipe that carries nostalgia yet feels fresh and exciting every time it’s baked.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Cherries have been a treasured fruit for centuries, often symbolizing love and sweetness in cultures across the globe. From European cherry orchards to American summer pies, this fruit has always had a place in dessert traditions. Cherry cake, in particular, became popular in the 19th century as a festive treat, often baked for holidays and special occasions. The addition of cream cheese frosting is a more modern twist, blending European fruit cakes with the creamy frostings beloved in American baking.

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Why You’ll Love Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

There are plenty of reasons this cake will become your new go-to, but here are the highlights:

Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, afternoon tea, or a simple family dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and seasonal cherries that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: Simple steps with no complicated techniques.

Customizable: Works well with fresh, frozen, or even canned cherries.

Crowd-Pleasing: A stunning centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Both cake and frosting can be prepared ahead of time.

Great for Leftovers: Stays moist and delicious for days.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make sure your cherry cake comes out bakery-worthy every time, here are a few insider secrets:

1. Always dry your cherries well before folding them into the batter to prevent excess moisture.
2. Toss cherries in a light coating of flour before mixing into the batter so they don’t sink.
3. Use room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for a smoother batter and frosting.
4. Chill the frosted cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to help the frosting set.
5. Add a touch of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements cherries beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To bring this cake to life, you don’t need fancy equipment, just these essentials:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Hand or Stand Mixer: Helps whip the batter and frosting until fluffy.
• Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round pans or a single 9×13-inch pan.
• Spatula: For folding in cherries and spreading frosting smoothly.
• Wire Rack: To cool cakes evenly.

Ingredients in Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

The beauty of this cake lies in how each ingredient plays its part in creating harmony:

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups provides structure and softness.
2. Baking Powder: 2 ½ teaspoons ensures a light, airy rise.
3. Salt: ½ teaspoon balances the sweetness.
4. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (softened) gives richness and moisture.
5. Granulated Sugar: 1 ¾ cups sweetens while keeping the crumb tender.
6. Eggs: 4 large add stability and richness.
7. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons enhances overall flavor.
8. Milk: 1 cup creates a moist and smooth batter.
9. Fresh or Frozen Cherries: 2 cups (pitted and halved) bring bursts of juicy sweetness.
10. Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (softened) forms the creamy base for frosting.
11. Powdered Sugar: 3 ½ cups sweetens and thickens the frosting.
12. Cherry Juice or Syrup: 2–3 tablespoons infuses the frosting with cherry flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you may want or need to swap things out—here are some ideas:

• Fresh Cherries: Use frozen cherries, thawed and drained.
• Milk: Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Unsalted Butter: Use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative.
• Cream Cheese: Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cherries: Juicy, vibrant, and naturally sweet, they are the star of this cake, providing both flavor and color.

Cream Cheese: Its tangy smoothness balances the sweetness of the cherries and sugar, creating a luscious frosting.

Instructions for Making Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Now let’s bring everything together step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your cake pans.
2. Combine Ingredients: In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In another, cream butter and sugar until light. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk until combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Gently fold cherries into the batter, then divide evenly between pans.
4. Assemble the Dish: Smooth the tops of the batter with a spatula.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Finishing Touches: Let cakes cool completely. Beat cream cheese until smooth, add cherry juice, and gradually mix in powdered sugar until fluffy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Frost the cooled cakes, stack if layered, and garnish with extra cherries on top.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes this cake special is the tender crumb that almost melts in your mouth, punctuated by bursts of juicy cherries. The cream cheese frosting is silky yet slightly tangy, which cuts through the richness of the cake. Together, they create a balance of sweet, tart, and creamy that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use fresh cherries at peak season for the juiciest flavor.
• For a bakery-style finish, frost the cake with a crumb coat before applying the final layer.
• Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before making frosting for extra fluffiness.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overmix the batter, or your cake will turn dense.
• Avoid using wet or un-drained cherries, as they can make the cake soggy.
• Don’t frost the cake until it is completely cool, or the frosting will melt.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: ~380

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate. The frosting can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Leftovers keep well covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

This cake shines on its own, but you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a light sparkling beverage.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Turn slices into a cherry trifle layered with whipped cream.
• Cube leftovers and use as a base for a cherry cake parfait.
• Crumble into yogurt for a sweet breakfast treat.

Additional Tips

A splash of almond extract in the batter enhances the cherry flavor beautifully. Garnish the frosted cake with chocolate curls or edible flowers for added charm.

Make It a Showstopper

For presentation, frost with swooping motions for a rustic look, or smooth it sleek for a modern style. Top with whole cherries or cherry compote for a stunning finish.

Variations to Try

• Cherry Almond Cake: Add almond extract and sliced almonds on top.
• Chocolate Cherry Cake: Swap a portion of the flour with cocoa powder.
• Lemon Cherry Cake: Add lemon zest and juice for a citrusy twist.
• Cherry Coconut Cake: Fold in shredded coconut for tropical flair.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, just drain them well before adding.

Q2: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Q3: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in larger pans.

Q4: How do I keep cherries from sinking?

Toss them lightly in flour before folding into the batter.

Q5: Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, divide batter into a muffin tin and bake 18–20 minutes.

Q6: Is the frosting pipeable?

Yes, if chilled slightly, it holds its shape for piping.

Q7: Can I make this without frosting?

Definitely, it’s still delicious dusted with powdered sugar.

Q8: Can I use cherry preserves in the frosting?

Yes, just reduce powdered sugar slightly to balance sweetness.

Q9: How long does the frosted cake last?

Up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Q10: Can I freeze the frosted cake?

It’s best to freeze unfrosted layers, but frosted slices can be frozen with wax paper between them.

Conclusion

This Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is a beautiful blend of comfort and indulgence, the kind of cake that makes memories at birthdays, holidays, or even just a cozy Sunday afternoon. With its tender crumb, juicy cherries, and luscious frosting, it’s a dessert that feels special without being complicated. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite

Watch How to Make Cherry Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting