Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

A fond memory from childhood revolves around my grandmother’s kitchen and the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked cherry chip cake. Every Sunday, she baked this delightful treat, filling the house with warmth and sweetness. The vibrant pink morsels of maraschino cherries tucked inside the light cake always brought smiles to our faces. Whenever I take a bite of cherry chip cake today, it transports me back to those sunny afternoons filled with laughter and family.

This homemade cherry chip cake recipe intertwines simplicity and joy, creating a dessert that never fails to impress. The bright cherry flavors, combined with the creamy frosting, make it a crowd pleaser for any occasion. Baking this cake is not just about the ingredients; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen and sharing a piece of happiness with loved ones.

The beauty of this cake lies in its vibrant color and delightful taste. As I whip up the batter, I cherish the moments, knowing they will soon turn into delicious memories. Each slice of this cherry chip cake brings nostalgia and a sweetness that modern desserts sometimes lack. Let’s dive into the delightful world of this cherry chip cake recipe together.

The Cherry Chip Cake Experience

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect cherry chip cake starts with understanding the essentials. This cake combines a rich flavor with a light texture, making it a joy to eat. The cake’s heart lies in the combination of maraschino cherries and cherry juice, which contribute a fruity sweetness that stands out.

To ensure the best results, always use room-temperature ingredients. This includes eggs, butter, sour cream, and milk. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and a more consistent cake texture. Attention to detail during preparation sets the stage for a successful bake.

Preparation/Setup

Gather all ingredients before beginning. For this cherry chip cake, you will need granulated sugar, salted butter, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, maraschino cherry juice, sour cream, whole milk, and of course, chopped maraschino cherries. The freshness of these ingredients plays a crucial role in flavor development.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the cake rises properly and achieves a lovely golden exterior. While the oven heats, prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

1. Dry Ingredients:

   • 2 1/2 cups (353g) all-purpose flour
   • 4 teaspoons baking powder

2. Wet Ingredients:

   • 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
   • 3/4 cup (170g) salted butter, softened
   • 1 large egg, room temperature
   • 4 large egg whites, room temperature
   • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
   • 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice
   • 3/4 cup (170g) full-fat sour cream, room temperature
   • 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
   • 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (about 1 cup before chopping)

3. For Frosting:

   • 1 1/2 cups (341g) salted butter, softened
   • 1 1/2 cups (341g) vegetable shortening
   • 12 cups (1,440g) powdered sugar
   • 6-8 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
   • Additional maraschino cherries with stems for decorating

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and egg whites, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with maraschino cherry juice and sour cream. Beat until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the whole milk, then add the chopped maraschino cherries.
5. Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Crafting Your Cherry Chip Cake

Technique

Baking a cherry chip cake requires a combination of techniques to ensure it turns out perfectly. Start by alternating the addition of dry and wet ingredients. This method allows for a better absorption of flavors and helps maintain airiness in the batter.

Make sure to fold in the chopped cherries gently rather than mixing vigorously. Overmixing can break down the delicate structure of the cherries and result in a denser cake. The whole process is about balancing sweetness and maintaining a light texture.

Tips and Tricks

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use butter, eggs, sour cream, and milk at room temperature for better emulsion and texture.
2. Correct Measuring Techniques: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid adding too much flour.
3. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts or add almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
4. Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped.

Perfecting Your Cherry Chip Cake

Perfecting Results

To ensure a consistently moist cake, avoid opening the oven door too early in the baking process. This can cause temperature fluctuations, leading to a dense texture. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the time suggested in the recipe.

If you desire an even more pronounced cherry flavor, consider adding extra cherry juice to the batter. The added moisture enriches the cake while enhancing the fruitiness of the final product.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to too much liquid or underbaking. Ensure that you measure all liquid ingredients accurately and bake until fully set.

For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips alongside the cherries for a chocolate cherry chip cake experience. The chocolate complements the cherries beautifully, adding a rich depth of flavor.

Cherry Chip Cake Presentation and Storage

Serving and Presentation

When it’s time to serve your cherry chip cake, consider decorating it with additional maraschino cherries placed neatly on top. This not only adds an inviting aesthetic but also highlights the cake’s unique flavor.

Use a serrated knife to slice the cake evenly. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. The contrast of temperatures and textures creates a delightful eating experience.

Pairings and Storage

Pair this cherry chip cake with refreshing beverages such as lemonade or iced tea for a beautiful afternoon dessert setup. For storage, keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable bag for future enjoyment. The cake will retain its flavor for up to three months in the freezer.

With each slice of homemade cherry chip cake, you commemorate moments of joy. The delightful burst of cherries combined with the creamy frosting captures the essence of celebration, reminding us of the sweet times shared with family and friends. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a story, a memory, and a delicious piece of life.

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