🍰 Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake 🍒

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Best Time to Serve: Ideal for family gatherings, birthday parties, or any event where you want to impress with a classic, delicious cake!

---

Ingredients

1. For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)

• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup maraschino cherry juice (from the jar of cherries)

• 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (about 10-12 cherries)

• ½ cup sour cream (120g)

• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)

2. For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (225g)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2-3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (to taste)

• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (360g)

• Chopped maraschino cherries (for garnish)

• Additional chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for garnish)

---

Instructions

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan (or two 9-inch round pans for a layered cake) or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the maraschino cherry juice and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and chopped walnuts (if using). The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy from the cherries.

🔹 Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when touched.

3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

🔹 Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice, and continue to beat until well combined.

3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner frosting, add more cherry juice, 1 tablespoon at a time.

4. Beat the frosting for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.

🔹 Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a generous amount of the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake (and between layers if you’ve made a layered cake).

2. Garnish with additional chopped maraschino cherries and chopped walnuts or pecans if desired. This adds color, texture, and extra flavor to the cake.

🔹 Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and serve the cake! It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with its delightful cherry flavor and creamy frosting.

---

Tips for the Perfect Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

• Cherry Juice: Don’t throw away the cherry juice! It adds a lovely depth of flavor to the cake and frosting. You can use it in the frosting to give it a pink color and enhance the cherry flavor.

• Frosting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar. For a lighter, fluffier frosting, add a little more cherry juice or milk.

• Maraschino Cherries: Make sure to drain the cherries well before chopping them. This prevents the batter from becoming too wet.

• Layered Cake: If making a layered cake, be sure to divide the frosting evenly between the layers and on top to create a beautiful finish.

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier!

---

Calories (estimated)

• 1 slice (1/12 of the cake): ~350-400 kcal (depending on the size of the slice and amount of frosting used)

---

Energy-Saving Tips

• You can make the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container until you’re ready to frost the cake.

• If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought cake mix and frosting, though homemade will provide a richer flavor.

---

Who Would Enjoy This?

• Cherry lovers will adore the sweet, tangy flavor of maraschino cherries in the cake and frosting.

• Ideal for those who enjoy retro-style desserts or nostalgic treats.

• Perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or special celebrations, as it has a beautiful presentation and delicious taste.