Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

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Take a trip down memory lane with this Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake, a classic dessert that embodies nostalgia and elegance in every bite. With its soft, buttery crumb and delightful bursts of cherry flavor, this cake is perfect for special occasions or a simple afternoon treat. Topped with velvety frosting and adorned with luscious maraschino cherries, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.

A Classic Cake with a Cherry Twist

This Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake is a delicate yet flavorful dessert, combining a moist vanilla cake base with the sweet and tangy notes of maraschino cherries. The cherries are finely chopped and folded into the batter, ensuring every slice is speckled with bursts of fruity goodness.

Not only does this cake taste incredible, but it also boasts a soft pink hue that makes it visually stunning. Whether served as a birthday cake, a tea-time treat, or a nostalgic dessert for a family gathering, this cake will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients for Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

To create this beautifully nostalgic cake, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients that contribute to its soft texture and signature cherry flavor.

• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake, giving it a light yet firm texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, ensuring a soft and fluffy crumb.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture, making the cake tender and flavorful.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while also contributing to its light texture.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and help create a soft, airy cake.
• Maraschino Cherry Juice – Infuses the cake with a delicate cherry flavor and gives it a soft pink hue.
• Milk – Keeps the cake moist and helps blend the flavors smoothly.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
• Maraschino Cherries (chopped) – Sweet, juicy cherries that add texture and bursts of fruity goodness throughout the cake.

How to Make Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

This cake comes together easily with just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to achieve the perfect bake:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for an even rise.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air, which results in a tender cake.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and maraschino cherry juice to infuse the batter with a delightful cherry essence.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 6: Fold in the Chopped Cherries

Gently fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout for pops of color and flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Now, your cake layers are ready for the perfect frosting and decoration!

How Long to Bake Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

The baking time for this cake depends on the size of your cake pans and the oven temperature. Follow these general guidelines to ensure a perfectly baked cake:

• Two 9-inch round pans – Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• One 9×13-inch pan – Bake for 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• Cupcakes (standard size) – Bake for 18-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be lightly golden with a soft, fluffy texture inside.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover cake, here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature – If unfrosted, store the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator – A frosted cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Freezer – Wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

Follow these expert tips to ensure your cake turns out soft, flavorful, and beautifully pink every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps create a smooth, evenly mixed batter and ensures a tender crumb.
• Do Not Overmix – Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Drain the Cherries Well – Pat the chopped maraschino cherries dry with a paper towel before adding them to the batter. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the cake texture.
• Enhance the Flavor – Add a few drops of almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
• Frost with Care – Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but maraschino cherries provide a unique sweetness and color. If using fresh cherries, remove the pits and add a bit of extra sugar for balance.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped at room temperature. Frost just before serving for the best texture.

3. What frosting pairs best with this cake?
A classic vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream frosting complements the cherry flavor beautifully.

This vintage cake is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat!

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