The Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake is like a time machine for your taste buds. Imagine a fluffy cake, drenched in sweet cherry flavor and adorned with those iconic maraschino cherries—it’s a slice of nostalgia that takes you back to family gatherings and sunny afternoons. savory layered zucchini dish This cake is as vibrant as your Aunt Edna’s floral wallpaper, with a flavor profile that dances between sweet and slightly tart, creating an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
Picture this: a warm kitchen filled with the aroma of baking cake mingling with the sweet scent of cherries. Whether it’s a birthday party or just a Tuesday that needs some cheering up, this Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). nutty and fruity breakfast option Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful cake is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy bakers
- Its bright color and cherry topping create an eye-catching centerpiece
- The flavor strikes a balance between sweetness and tartness, pleasing every palate
- Enjoy it at birthdays, anniversaries, or just because you deserve something special!
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends devoured it within minutes and insisted I sell slices on the street corner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cake Flour: Use high-quality cake flour for a light and airy texture; it’s essential for the cake’s fluffiness.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your batter with granulated sugar for that classic sweetness we all love.
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Baking Powder: Ensure your cake rises perfectly by using fresh baking powder; check the expiration date.
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Salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavors, so don’t skip it; balance is key!
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Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; let it sit out until it’s room temperature.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for the best results; they contribute to moisture and structure.
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Milk: Whole milk makes the batter creamy, but feel free to substitute with almond milk if desired.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; skip imitation vanilla if you can—your taste buds will thank you.
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Maraschino Cherries: These little gems are both decorative and flavorful—don’t skimp on them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. quick and easy savory recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare Your Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while greasing two 9-inch round cake pans lightly with butter. Dust them with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This mix sets the foundation for your fluffy cake.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. You want it to look like fluffy clouds!
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. delightful no bake dessert Stir in vanilla extract while dreaming about how delightful this cake will be.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients Alternately With Milk: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture alternately with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients—this keeps everything smooth and luscious.
Add Maraschino Cherries to Batter : Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries once your batter is smooth. Their vibrant color will make your cake look like it belongs in a bakery window!
Bake Your Cakes : Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!
Cool Down Before Frosting : Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting or risk melting your frosting into cherry soup!
Enjoy whipping up this nostalgic treat that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day!
You Must Know
- Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake is a nostalgic treat that balances sweetness with a hint of tartness
- The vibrant cherries add not just flavor but also a lovely pop of color, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create your Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time, followed by the dry ingredients. This sequence ensures an even mix and perfect texture. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out maraschino cherries for fresh or frozen ones; just adjust the sugar slightly. You could also add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When baking this vintage cake, be sure to use room temperature ingredients for better blending
- Don’t rush the mixing process; it’s key to achieving a light and airy texture
- Also, remember that overmixing can lead to a dense cake
Baking this Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last slice. It’s simple yet always impresses! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Cheesecake Squares recipe.
FAQ
What makes Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake special?
The unique combination of sweet cherries and moist cake creates a delightful flavor profile.
Can I use different types of cherries?
Absolutely! Just adjust the sugar if using fresh or frozen cherries instead.
How can I enhance the frosting flavor?
Consider adding almond extract to your frosting for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cake beautifully.

Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake is a delightful throwback that beautifully combines sweet cherry flavor with a fluffy cake base. This vibrant dessert, topped with maraschino cherries, is perfect for celebrations or simply to brighten your day. It’s easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy bakers. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or enjoying it on a casual afternoon, this cake is sure to impress and evoke fond memories.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter until creamy, then gradually add sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture until smooth.
- Gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg