Simple Cherry Cake

This Simple Cherry Cake is the perfect summer dessert that showcases fresh cherries in a delightful way. It’s easy to make with just a few pantry staples, making it suitable for breakfasts, brunches, or even as an after-dinner treat. Your family will adore this moist cake topped with juicy cherries, and it might just become your go-to recipe when cherry season arrives!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – This cake comes together quickly with simple steps and ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Fresh Flavor – Using sweet, fresh cherries gives this cake a burst of flavor that truly stands out.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it warm for breakfast or with ice cream for dessert; it’s perfect for any occasion!
• Impressive Appearance – The beautiful cherry topping makes for an eye-catching dessert that will impress your guests.
• Balanced Sweetness – The combination of sugar and tart cherries creates a delightful balance that isn’t overly sweet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Simple Cherry Cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3-inch springform pan or 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform pan – Allows for easy removal of the cake after baking, ensuring it maintains its shape.
• Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients to achieve a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients

This easy cherry cake is made completely from scratch using fresh cherries and pantry staples. Serve it warm for breakfast, brunch, midafternoon snack, or as an after-dinner dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! This is the best homemade summer cake to make during the cherry season! Your family will love it and it might become your new favorite sweet treat!

For the Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or use gluten-free measure-for-measure flour – King Arthur brand)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 oz butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 4 cups sweet cherries (fresh, pitted, each cherry sliced in half)

How to Make Simple Cherry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F with the rack positioned in the middle. Grease the sides and bottom of your springform or round cake pan with butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Line the bottom of your pan with parchment paper and grease the parchment paper as well. This step helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together:
* Flour
* Baking powder
* Baking soda

Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter
2. Sugar
3. Eggs

Whip on high speed until light in color and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Then add vanilla and Greek yogurt, continuing to mix until creamy (about 1 minute).

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Assemble Cake Layers

Transfer half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle sliced cherries over this layer. Add remaining batter on top followed by more cherries.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven until golden brown and a tester comes out clean from the center (approximately 45 minutes to an hour).

Step 8: Midway Cherry Add-On

About halfway through baking, place additional pitted cherries on top for added visual appeal before returning it to bake.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, let cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 40 minutes before releasing from the springform pan. Enjoy your delicious Simple Cherry Cake!

How to Serve Simple Cherry Cake

Serving your Simple Cherry Cake can elevate the experience of this delightful dessert. Here are some delicious suggestions to enjoy it at its best!

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Top a warm slice of cherry cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The coolness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the sweetness of the cherries and creating a decadent dessert.

Accompanied by Fresh Whipped Cream

• Serve slices alongside freshly whipped cream for a light and fluffy complement that balances the density of the cake.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying your cherry cake with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a perfect afternoon treat. The flavors blend wonderfully, making each bite more enjoyable.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include slices in a brunch spread alongside other pastries and fruits. It’s a delightful addition that will impress your guests.

With Lemon Zest Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavors, making each bite even more vibrant.

How to Perfect Simple Cherry Cake

To ensure your Simple Cherry Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries enhance flavor and texture. Make sure they are pitted and sliced before adding them to the batter.

• Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.

• Do Not Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool for at least 40 minutes before removing it from the pan. This helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.

• Add Extra Cherries Midway: For added visual appeal and flavor, top with more cherries halfway through baking.

• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding almond extract or cinnamon for a different twist on this delicious cake recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Simple Cherry Cake

Pairing your Simple Cherry Cake with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that works well with cherry flavors.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that contrast nicely with sweet cake.
4. Savory Muffins: Pairing with cheese or herb muffins creates an interesting sweet-savory combo.
5. Pistachio Ice Cream: This nutty flavor offers a unique twist when served alongside cherry cake.
6. Herb Salad: A light salad featuring fresh herbs can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet cake.
7. Chocolate Fudge Brownies: For chocolate lovers, pairing brownies enhances indulgence while contrasting textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Simple Cherry Cake can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success. Here are some pitfalls to watch for when baking.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check your baking powder and soda for freshness. Old leavening agents can lead to a dense cake instead of a fluffy one.

• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour.

• Not preparing the pan properly: Greasing and lining your pan is essential. Failing to do so may result in your cake sticking, making it hard to remove.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. An unheated oven can affect the rise and overall texture of your cherry cake.

• Skipping the cooling time: Letting the cake cool in the pan is important. If you remove it too soon, it might break apart or crumble.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Simple Cherry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For best texture, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Freezing Simple Cherry Cake

• Freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, place wrapped slices in a freezer bag labeled with the date.

Reheating Simple Cherry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per slice until warm, being careful not to overheat.

• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries for this Simple Cherry Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just thaw them first and drain excess juice before adding them to the batter.

How do I know when my Simple Cherry Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can try using blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor twist while maintaining similar baking times.

What can I serve with Simple Cherry Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, making it perfect for dessert!

Final Thoughts

The Simple Cherry Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. Its rich cherry flavor shines through, especially during cherry season. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or swapping cherries with other fruits! Try this recipe today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!