Description
A soft, buttery cake infused with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of maraschino cherries, this vintage dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion. With a beautiful pink hue and velvety cherry-flavored frosting, this cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large egg whites, room temperature
¾ cup whole milk, room temperature
½ cup maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
¾ cup maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
For the Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup maraschino cherry juice (adjust for consistency)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
For Garnish (Optional):
Whole maraschino cherries with stems
Sprinkles or edible pearls
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg whites, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
- Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Reduce the mixer speed to low. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk/cherry juice mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries using a spatula. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Pour in maraschino cherry juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.
- Assemble and Decorate
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
- Pipe decorative swirls and place whole maraschino cherries on top. Add sprinkles for a vintage touch.
- Slice and serve!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert