Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that will make your heart sing and your taste buds dance, look no further than this Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake has a special place in my heart for its delightful mix of flavors and textures. The fluffy layers of vanilla cake paired with the juicy cherry filling create a symphony of sweetness that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat on a busy weeknight, this recipe is bound to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this cake truly special is the cherry cream cheese frosting—the silky smoothness complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully. Trust me, every slice is an invitation to indulge, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of cherry and cream cheese—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Stunning Presentation: With vibrant colors and layers, this cake looks as good as it tastes—ideal for impressing guests!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can bake the layers ahead of time and assemble later, making it even more convenient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You likely have most of these staples in your kitchen already. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that dreamy texture and flavor we all crave in our Cherry Layer Cake.

For the Cake:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned), pitted and chopped

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup cherry juice or puréed cherries (optional for flavor and color)

Variations

One of the best things about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations.

• Add a Flavor Twist: Try incorporating almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with cherries.
• Change Up the Fruit: Substitute cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a berry medley that will still shine.
• Use Different Frostings: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for whipped cream or a simple buttercream if you prefer something lighter.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to make this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cakes bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the cakes once they’re baked.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps combine them evenly so that every bite of your cake has just the right amount of lift.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into your batter, giving your cake its lovely texture.

Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time

Beat in each egg one at a time until well blended. Mixing them in gradually ensures they incorporate fully without curdling.

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Alternately add your flour mixture and milk to the batter. Start by adding some flour first then some milk—this helps maintain moisture without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Bake Your Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for 22-27 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 8: Cool Your Cakes

Once baked, cool the cakes in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Proper cooling is key to layering without melting your frosting!

Step 9: Make Your Cherry Filling

In a saucepan, simmer chopped cherries with sugar until slightly thickened—this enhances their sweetness while creating a luscious filling. Allow it to cool completely before using.

Step 10: Prepare Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add butter and mix until fluffy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar along with vanilla extract while mixing until creamy goodness forms!

Step 11: Assemble Your Cake

Layer your cooled cakes by spreading half of your cherry filling between two layers followed by frosting on top. Repeat until all layers are stacked. Finish by frosting the top and sides with any remaining frosting.

And there you have it! A stunning Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting ready to impress anyone who lays eyes on it—or takes their first heavenly bite! Enjoy every moment of making—and sharing—this delicious creation!

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Creating the perfect Cherry Layer Cake can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a stunning result!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and butter are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, which leads to fluffy cake layers. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to clump and not mix well.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cake layers instead of the light, airy texture you want in a layer cake.

• Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your cakes a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs for perfectly baked layers.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool fully on wire racks before frosting. If they’re warm, the frosting may melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful creation!

• Experiment with cherry flavors: If you love cherries, consider adding cherry extract or using cherry-flavored yogurt in the frosting for an extra boost of flavor!

How to Serve Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Cherry Layer Cake can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Fresh cherries: Top each slice with halved fresh cherries for a pop of color and freshness.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add an extra creamy texture that complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully.
• Chocolate shavings: For a touch of elegance, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top; they provide a lovely contrast to the fruity flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with cherry flavors, providing a creamy balance to the tartness of the cake.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the dessert without overpowering it.
• Coffee or tea: Serve slices of cake alongside freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea; both beverages enhance the overall experience by balancing sweetness.
• Cheese platter: A small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese provides a savory contrast to the sweet layers of your cake.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this stunning Cherry Layer Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time to save you some kitchen stress before your next celebration. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its deliciousness!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator where it will last for up to a week.
• Keep the layers separate if possible, as this helps preserve their texture.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; just make sure to label with the date!
• For frosting, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy a slice of cold cake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• If you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting?

For added flavor, consider incorporating almond extract into your frosting or adding more cherry juice or purée. Fresh cherries on top also add a beautiful touch!

What type of cherries should I use for this cake?

You can use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries that are pitted and chopped. Just remember to drain any excess liquid from canned cherries.

Is there a way to reduce sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sugar used in both the cake and frosting by one-third without significantly affecting texture or flavor.

Can I use different fruits instead of cherries?

Certainly! This recipe is versatile; try using strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a delightful twist on flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s truly special, bursting with flavor and color that will dazzle your friends and family. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your presentation—every slice promises happiness. Enjoy every moment spent baking and sharing this delightful treat!