What makes the perfect layer cake? Tender cherry-filled layers paired with a tangy cherry cream cheese frosting make this homemade dessert a family favorite, and the best part is it’s surprisingly easy to make with fresh cherries, try making it soon and save this idea

Two Slices of Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into the moist, fluffy layers of a cherry layer cake, only to be met with the tangy, creamy delight of cherry cream cheese frosting. This recipe is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, using everyday ingredients to create a truly show-stopping dessert. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to impress, this cherry layer cake with cherry cream cheese frosting is the perfect recipe to add to your repertoire.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cherry and cream cheese is a match made in heaven, and the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is surprisingly simple to prepare, with a straightforward mixing and layering process.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The end result is a stunning, professional-looking cake that’s sure to impress friends and family, without requiring hours of intricate decorating or complicated techniques.

Key Ingredients

The star of the show is, of course, the cherry. We’ll be using a combination of fresh cherries and cherry jam to give the cake its signature flavor. You’ll also need cream cheese, butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract. If you can’t find fresh cherries, don’t worry – frozen or canned cherries work just as well. And if you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute it with a similar soft cheese like mascarpone or ricotta.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, and set them aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and eggs until light and fluffy.
2. Step 2: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and cherry jam. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, and smooth the tops.
3. Step 3: Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cakes are cool, you can start making the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cherry jam.
4. Step 4: To assemble the cake, place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top, then top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, and decorate with fresh cherries or cherry slices.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
• If you’re using frozen cherries, be sure to thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• To ensure the frosting sets properly, refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The ideal temperature is 350°F (180°C), and the cakes should be baked for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and bake for a few minutes less, then check the cakes again.

Crunch Factor

This cake is all about the tender, fluffy texture of the layers, paired with the creamy frosting. To achieve this, be sure to not overbake the cakes, and don’t overmix the batter. You want the cakes to be lightly golden and springy to the touch, with a delicate crumb that’s not too dense or heavy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a turntable to display your cake, and make it easier to frost and decorate.
• Invest in a good quality pastry brush to ensure the cakes are evenly greased and floured.
• For a professional-looking finish, use a bench scraper or offset spatula to smooth the frosting and remove any excess.

Storage Tips

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the cake for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• When reheating, allow the cake to come to room temperature, or warm it gently in the microwave or oven.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift, especially for special occasions like birthdays or weddings. Consider packaging it in a beautiful cake box or tin, adorned with ribbons and fresh flowers. You could also wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and top with a decorative gift tag or card.

Flavor Variations

• Try substituting the cherry jam with a different flavor, like raspberry or strawberry.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra boost of spice.
• Use a different type of cheese, like mascarpone or ricotta, for a unique twist on the frosting.

Troubleshooting

• If the cakes are too dense or heavy, check that you didn’t overmix the batter, and try adding a little more liquid next time.
• If the frosting is too runny, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm it up, or add a little more powdered sugar.
• If the cake is too dry, try adding a little more oil or butter to the batter, or brushing the cakes with a little extra moisture before serving.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten, but you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative if needed.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger cake, just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

And there you have it – a stunning cherry layer cake with cherry cream cheese frosting that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its tender, fluffy texture and creamy, tangy frosting, this cake is a true showstopper. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further guidance. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of this incredible cake!