Very Cherry Cake
235
18
1.30k
There’s something magical about a cake that combines bright cherry flavor with a fluffy texture and rich buttery frosting. The Very Cherry Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is one of those delightful desserts that effortlessly brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a treat to brighten your week, this cake catches the eye and tantalizes the taste buds. I remember the first time I baked this cake; it was a hit with my family and friends, mainly because it’s so incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor.
What Makes This Cake a Must-Bake
Why should you consider baking this cherry-infused delight? For starters, it’s quick and easy to whip up, thanks to the use of a boxed cake mix. You can put this beauty together on a weeknight or impress guests at a weekend brunch without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, who can resist that vibrant cherry flavor? It’s not just another vanilla cake; the unique maraschino cherry juice adds a distinct sweetness that takes it up a notch.
“This cake is always a crowd-pleaser! The cherry flavor shines through, and the buttercream is simply divine!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Ready to find out how you can replicate this lovely dish in your own kitchen? Making the Very Cherry Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is a breeze. You’ll first gather your ingredients, then whip up the cake, create the luscious frosting, and finally, bring it all together in a gleeful assembly of festivity and flavor. Let’s break down the steps to set you up for success!
What You’ll Need
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup maraschino cherry juice
- ⅓ cup canola oil
- 3 egg whites
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1–2 drops red food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Feel free to experiment with the maraschino cherry juice! If you’re looking for a less sugary alternative, you can replace it with a natural cherry juice or syrup, though it may change the flavor profile slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine white cake mix, water, maraschino cherry juice, canola oil, egg whites, and almond extract. Mix until combined and smooth. Add red food coloring for extra visual appeal, if desired. Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake according to package instructions or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream: While the cake cools, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, alternating with milk or cream, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt to finish.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Feel free to get creative with your frosting techniques!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The Very Cherry Cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea—perfect for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a light meal. For an extra touch, serve slices topped with fresh cherries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Considering a fun twist? A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side takes it to dessert heaven!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftovers, you can also refrigerate them, but I recommend allowing it to come to room temperature before serving for optimal texture. You can freeze the cake (wrapped well in plastic) for up to three months; just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg whites are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Bake in a Water Bath: If you’re using a springform pan, placing it in a larger pan filled with water can help the cake bake evenly.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined for a light texture.
Creative Twists to Try
Looking for ways to customize your Very Cherry Cake? Consider folding in fresh cherries or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture. You could even swap out the almond extract for coconut or orange extract for a fruity twist. Vegan baking? Substitute the egg whites with aquafaba and use a plant-based butter for the frosting.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to make this cake?
A: The entire process takes about 30 minutes to prep and then 25-30 minutes to bake, plus additional time for cooling and frosting.
Q: Can I use a different flavored cake mix?
A: Absolutely! A lemon or strawberry cake mix could create delicious variations.
Q: How should I store the cake?
A: Keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
With its bright color, moist texture, and dreamy frosting, the Very Cherry Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is a delightful addition to any dessert table. Happy baking!
