Do you miss the sweet taste of childhood desserts? Our easy cherry chip cake recipe is here to bring back those memories. It’s a homemade version of a classic, with a fluffy texture and a burst of cherry flavor.
The secret to this treat is real maraschino cherries and their juice. They add a sweet and slightly tart taste to every bite. With a creamy cherry-almond buttercream frosting, it’s perfect for any celebration.
So, why do we still love this retro dessert? Let’s explore its rich history and timeless charm together.
Understanding Cherry Chip Cake’s Nostalgic Appeal
In the mid-20th century, betty crocker cherry chip cake mix was a hit for birthdays and family gatherings. Its moist cake with cherry bits won over many Americans. It became a favorite for generations.
The History Behind Betty Crocker’s Classic Mix
In the 1960s to 1980s, betty crocker cherry chip cake mix was everywhere. It was a symbol of easy baking in American homes. Its bright pink and cherry taste made it a favorite, creating many memories.
But, as baking got more homemade in the 1990s and 2000s, cherry chip cake mix fell out of favor. Yet, in recent years, it’s made a comeback. Home bakers and bloggers are bringing back its nostalgic charm.
Why This Retro Dessert Remains Popular
The charm of cherry chip cake comes from its taste and childhood memories. Its moist cake and sweet cherry bits are unique. This mix of flavors is loved by both kids and adults.
The cake’s bright pink color, thanks to maraschino cherries, makes it visually appealing. It adds a whimsical touch to any celebration. This dessert is still a hit for special events, bringing nostalgia and indulgence.
Today, many baking fans want to make what happened to cherry chip cake mix a thing of the past. The good news is, you can make it at home. With a few ingredients and some baking skills, you can enjoy this classic dessert again.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cherry Chip Cake
Making a delicious cherry chip cake begins with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need a moist white cake mix or homemade cake flour batter. Add vibrant maraschino cherries and a bit of cherry juice for that pink color. Butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract add to the flavor, making it sweet and indulgent.
The cherry chips, or finely chopped maraschino cherries, are the main attraction. They add fruity bursts of flavor. Cherry juice not only gives the cake its color but also boosts the cherry taste. Buttermilk is also used, adding tenderness and a slight tang.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White Cake Mix (or Cake Flour) | 1 box (or 3 1/3 cups, 370 g) |
| Maraschino Cherries, finely chopped | 3/4 cup |
| Cherry Juice | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Almond Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
The result is a moist, flavorful cake that brings back cherry chip memories. The mix of sweet vanilla cake and cherry bursts is irresistible.
Key Equipment and Preparation Tips
To bake the perfect cherry chip cake, you need the right tools and some prep work. Let’s look at the key equipment and preparation tips for a delicious cherry chip cake recipe.
Recommended Baking Tools
- 8-inch or 9×13 inch cake pans for the cake layers
- A stand mixer or hand mixer for whipping up the cake batter
- A food processor or sharp knife for finely chopping the maraschino cherries
Proper Cherry Preparation Techniques
Before mixing the cake, prepare the maraschino cherries well. Drain them, removing excess liquid. Then, chop them finely with a food processor or sharp knife. This ensures the cherries are spread out evenly in the cake batter.
Temperature Considerations
For the best results, have all ingredients ready at room temperature. This includes eggs, milk, and butter. It helps the batter mix smoothly and bake evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for a perfectly baked cherry chip cake.
Step-by-Step Cherry Chip Cake Instructions
Making a cherry chip cake is simpler than you think. Just follow these easy steps to make a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and loved by all.
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour three 6-inch or two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Next, in a big mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup (113g) of unsalted butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Then, add 4 large egg whites one at a time, beating well after each egg. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract.
- Now, in another bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups (265g) of sifted cake flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- After that, alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup (120ml) of buttermilk and 1/2 cup (120ml) of maraschino cherry juice to the creamed mixture. Mix just until it’s combined.
- Then, gently fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped maraschino cherries.
- Split the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
With these easy steps, you’re on your way to making a delicious cherry chip cake that everyone will enjoy. Next, we’ll explore the perfect cherry-almond buttercream frosting to top it off.
Creating the Perfect Cherry-Almond Buttercream Frosting
Make your homemade cherry chip cake even better with a delicious cherry-almond buttercream frosting. This frosting adds a rich touch to the cake’s sweet taste. It makes your dessert a true treat.
Achieving the Ideal Frosting Consistency
Begin by beating 2 cups of sweet cream butter until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 5-10 minutes with a paddle attachment. Then, add 2 pounds of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the frosting is smooth and silky.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
To boost the cherry flavor, mix in 2 tablespoons each of heavy cream and maraschino cherry juice. Add 1/4 cup of almond extract to balance the taste. This creates a sophisticated and balanced flavor.
Whip the frosting for another 3 minutes on medium-high speed. This makes it creamy and easy to spread. You’ll get about 5 cups of frosting. This is enough to frost a 3-layer 7- or 8-inch cherry chip cake or ice about 3 dozen cupcakes.
To store the frosting, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Or freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw and whip it again to make it smooth and creamy.
Decorating Techniques for a Professional Look
Take your cherry chip cake to the next level with these decorating tips. First, apply a thin layer of frosting to the cake. This will make the final layer smooth. For a vintage look, use Wilton tips 6B, 4B, and 104 to pipe intricate designs.
For symmetrical decorations, use templates or stencils. Place whole maraschino cherries on top for a classic look. Make sure they’re dry to avoid juice spills. With practice, your cherry chip cake will be a stunning baked cherry treat for any event.
Professional results come from paying attention to details. Take your time and try different piping styles. Make your cherry chip cake unique. Whether it’s simple or complex, it will wow your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
This homemade cherry chip cake recipe is not just tasty. It’s also super convenient to make ahead. With a few easy storage tips, you can enjoy it for days.
Proper Storage Methods
After frosting and assembling your cherry chip cake, store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days. This way, you can prepare it early and serve it when you want.
Want to make the cake layers before frosting? Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before frosting and assembling.
Freezing and Thawing Guidelines
The homemade cherry cake layers freeze well, making prep easier. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap or foil, then put them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting.
The cherry-almond buttercream frosting can also be made ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Before using, let it come to room temperature and mix until smooth.
By using these storage and make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the cherry chip cake with little prep. This lets you focus on sharing it with your loved ones.
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Baking the perfect cherry chip cake needs focus. But even skilled bakers face problems. Don’t worry, we’ve got tips to help your cherry chip cake recipe be amazing every time.
One big issue is sinking cherries. To stop this, dust your cherries with flour before adding them to the mix. This keeps them floating, not sinking. Also, a thicker batter helps keep cherries up, not down.
Uneven rising can be a problem too. Check your oven’s temperature with a thermometer. And don’t open the oven door too often. Overbaking makes the cake dry and crumbly. So, take it out when it’s just set in the middle.
For even cherry distribution, chop them finely and mix them gently into the batter. If using a cake mix, swap water for cherry juice and oil for melted butter. This adds more flavor and moisture.
With these tips, you’ll make a cherry chip cake that’s moist, evenly risen, and full of cherry taste. Enjoy baking!
Recipe Variations and Modifications
The cherry chip cake recipe is very versatile. You can make it your own by adding different ingredients. Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and taste. For a lighter cake, use egg whites instead of whole eggs.
Adding Sprite to the mix can make the cake fluffier and moist. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor and a tender texture.
To make the cherry flavor stronger, add more chopped maraschino cherries and cherry juice. This will enhance the cherry taste that goes well with the cake.
| Ingredient | Original Recipe | Variation |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar | 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar |
| Butter | 3/4 cup salted butter | 1/2 cup salted butter, 1/4 cup unsalted butter |
| Cherries | 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries | 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, 2 tablespoons cherry preserves |
These ideas are just the beginning. The cherry chip cake recipe is a great base for your creativity. So, feel free to try new things and find what you love.
Conclusion
The cherry chip cake is a mix of old charm and tasty flavors. This homemade version beats the classic boxed mix, offering a real cherry taste and a soft, rich texture. It’s perfect for birthdays, special events, or just when you want something sweet. This cherry chip cake recipe will quickly become a favorite.
This homemade cherry cake is easy to decorate and can be made ahead of time. You can add fancy frosting designs or top it with fresh cherries and sprinkles. The options for a beautiful cherry dessert are endless.
Start your baking adventure with this timeless treat. Let the smell of freshly baked cherry chip cake fill your kitchen. Enjoy the memories it brings and share it with loved ones. This recipe offers the best of both worlds: old charm and new deliciousness.
FAQ
What is cherry chip cake?
Cherry chip cake is a classic dessert. It’s a pink cake filled with maraschino cherry bits. It’s a homemade version of a beloved boxed mix, using real cherries and cherry juice for flavor.
What happened to Betty Crocker’s Cherry Chip Cake mix?
Betty Crocker’s Cherry Chip Cake mix was a hit for birthdays and celebrations. But now, it’s hard to find in stores. Many are looking for homemade alternatives.
Why is cherry chip cake so popular?
Cherry chip cake is loved for its unique taste and vibrant pink color. It brings back childhood memories. The mix of tender cake and cherry bits is a favorite among all ages.
What are the key ingredients in cherry chip cake?
Cherry chip cake needs white cake mix, maraschino cherries, and cherry juice. You also need butter, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. The cherries add flavor and texture, while the juice makes the cake pink.
What tools are needed to make cherry chip cake?
You’ll need cake pans, a stand or hand mixer, and a food processor or sharp knife. These tools help with mixing and chopping cherries.
How do you properly prepare the cherries for cherry chip cake?
Drain and finely chop the cherries. A mini food processor can make chopping easier.
What is the process for making cherry chip cake?
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg whites, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix dry ingredients separately.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk/cherry juice to the butter mix. Fold in chopped cherries. Pour into pans and bake.
How do you make the cherry-almond buttercream frosting?
For the frosting, cream butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, cherry juice, heavy cream, and almond extract slowly. Mix until smooth.
How do you properly decorate a cherry chip cake?
Use a crumb coat before final frosting for a professional look. For a vintage look, try lambeth piping with Wilton tips. Decorate with whole cherries for a classic touch.
How do you store and make ahead a cherry chip cake?
Store frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Unfrosted layers can be wrapped in plastic wrap for 2 days or frozen for 2 months. Buttercream can be refrigerated for 2 weeks.
What are some common issues with cherry chip cake and how do you address them?
To fix sinking cherries, coat them in flour before adding. For uneven rising, check your oven temperature. To avoid a dry cake, don’t overmix or overbake.
What are some variations and modifications for cherry chip cake?
Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter. Use egg whites instead of whole eggs. Add Sprite to the mix or use almond flour for extra flavor and texture.