Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that combines juicy fruitiness with irresistible creaminess, then the Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting is your new best friend. This cake is a delightful harmony of moist layers infused with cherries and a luscious cream cheese frosting bursting with cherry flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake is a guaranteed showstopper that ignites joy with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Cherry Flavor: Real cherries in both the cake and frosting create a natural, vibrant taste you won’t find in typical cakes.
• Moist and Tender Texture: The layers remain soft and fluffy thanks to the careful balance of ingredients, making every mouthful heavenly.
• Cream Cheese Frosting Delight: The frosting offers a tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherries.
• Beautiful Presentation: Its deep red cherry hues and smooth frosting make it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
• Customizable and Versatile: Easy to adjust for different tastes and dietary needs without losing its charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, key ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering both flavor and texture to your Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting. From the fresh cherries to the creamy cheese, every component is thoughtfully chosen for the perfect balance.

• Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Adds natural fruitiness and color to the cake and frosting.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and the ideal crumb texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tart cherry notes.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s softness.
• Butter: Gives richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, lending creaminess and tang.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the natural cherry flavor and adds warmth.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Make the cake rise beautifully and maintain fluffiness.
• Milk or Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and light.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for easy spreading.

Variations for Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. The flexible base and frosting allow for creative twists that keep the cake exciting every time you make it.

• Almond Twist: Add almond extract to the batter and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for a nutty dimension.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs, butter, and cream cheese with vegan alternatives to enjoy a plant-based delight.
• Chocolate-Cherry Combo: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate version that pairs beautifully with the cherry frosting.
• Extra Cherry Filling: Layer with cherry preserves or a fresh cherry compote between layers for added juiciness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend without altering the cake’s irresistibly soft texture.

How to Make Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Batter

Start by preheating your oven and prepping two or three cake pans with parchment paper and butter. In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, then beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. Slowly alternate adding your dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, folding in chopped fresh or thawed frozen cherries for bursts of flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake at the recommended temperature until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake layers should be lightly golden and springy to the touch. Allow them to cool in the pans briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Combine softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl, beating until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with a splash of vanilla extract. Fold in finely chopped cherries or cherry preserves to infuse the frosting with vibrant flavor and a pretty pinkish hue.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of cherry cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with a final thick coat all over the cake. Smooth the frosting evenly or use a spatula to create swirled textures.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Add whole cherries or other decorative touches on top for an eye-catching finish, then chill the cake for at least an hour to let the flavors meld and the frosting set beautifully.

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth batter and frosting without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Keeps your cake layers tender and light rather than dense.
• Reserve Some Cherries: For garnishing the top or swirling into the frosting last minute for freshness.
• Chill Frosting Before Spreading: Helps maintain perfect consistency and makes spreading easier.
• Allow Cake to Cool Completely: Prevents the frosting from melting or sliding off the layers.

How to Serve Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Top your Cherry Layer Cake with fresh whole cherries, a sprinkling of toasted almonds, or edible flowers to elevate both the look and flavor. These simple touches make the dessert feel extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add creaminess without overpowering the cherry notes. A cup of hot tea or coffee can perfectly complement the rich frosting and fruity layers as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into petite squares or layering mini versions in clear dessert cups to showcase the colors. You can also dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted dark chocolate for an elegant finish that amps up the wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 days. The cool environment helps preserve the cream cheese frosting and keeps the cake moist.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the fully assembled Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting wrapped securely in plastic wrap and foil. It freezes well for up to 2 months and can be gently thawed overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, avoid microwaving or heating, which can compromise the cream cheese frosting’s texture. Instead, let slices warm slightly on the counter if desired.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries for this cake?

Yes, you can use canned cherries, but be sure to drain them well and pat dry to prevent excess moisture that could affect the cake’s texture.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to maintain softness and rise.

How long does the Cherry Layer Cake last?

When refrigerated properly in an airtight container, the cake stays fresh for about 4 days.

Can I make the frosting without cream cheese?

You can, but it won’t have the same tangy richness; alternatives like mascarpone or a stabilized whipped cream frosting can be used but change the flavor profile.

What is the best way to slice this cake cleanly?

Use a sharp, serrated knife and warm it slightly under hot water, then wipe dry before slicing. This helps achieve smooth, clean cake cuts without dragging the frosting.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the combination of moist cherry layers with rich, tangy cherry cream cheese frosting that makes this cake a lifelong favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, the Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting delivers joy and comfort in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a treasured classic in your dessert repertoire.

Related Posts

• Raspberry Cream Buns
• Pecan Nut Fudge Brownies
• King’s Hawaiian Cheesecake Danish

Print