Description
Everyone loves the sweet pop of a maraschino cherry on a sundae or a cake, right? But what if that bright, juicy flavor could be the main event instead of just the garnish? Get ready, because today you’re going to learn how to make an easy and delicious Maraschino Cherry Cake—one that’s fluffy, colorful, and bursting with cherry goodness in every bite
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.
- Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Water: Balances the batter consistency.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice: Adds beautiful pink color and a sweet, fruity flavor.
- Almond Extract: Enhances the cherry flavor with a slight nuttiness.
- Vanilla Cake Mix: The easy base that ensures the cake is fluffy and foolproof.
- Maraschino Cherries: Provide bursts of juicy sweetness throughout the cake.
For the Frosting:
- Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy balance to the sweet cake.
- Salted Butter: Provides richness and depth.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it structure.
- Almond Extract: Brings out even more cherry flavor.
- Maraschino Cherry Juice: Tints the frosting a pretty pink and adds more flavor.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Use cherry cake mix instead of vanilla for even more cherry punch.
- Swap almond extract with vanilla if you prefer a more traditional flavor.
- Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a cherry-chocolate twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, oil, water, maraschino cherry juice, and almond extract. Whisk until fully combined. Add the vanilla cake mix and continue mixing until the batter is smooth. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl if using a stand mixer. Gently fold in the quartered maraschino cherries so they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, use an electric or stand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, starting at a low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Mix in the almond extract and maraschino cherry juice until the frosting is light, fluffy, and pale pink.