Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

Welcome to our delightful guide to making the perfect cherry chip cake. This recipe is crafted for home bakers who love to blend a classic cake with a burst of cherry flavor. Our detailed instructions help you make a cake that is light and fluffy, with every bite full of genuine cherry taste.

In this article, you will learn how to prepare a delicious cake from scratch using a simple box cake mix combined with premium ingredients like cake flour, maraschino cherry juice, and fresh cherries. Whether you are making a birthday cake or a treat for any celebration, this cherry chip cake recipe is designed to impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry chip cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that work in harmony. You will love this recipe because it delivers a well-balanced mix of sweetness and tang, combining the natural taste of cherries with the classic charm of a traditional cake. The use of a quality box cake mix enriched with extra ingredients like cake flour and cherry extracts gives the cake a refined texture and a delightful cherry flavor that stands out.

The process is straightforward and inviting—even beginners will find the clear, step-by-step directions reassuring. With a smooth buttercream frosting that complements the vibrant cherry notes, every slice is a promise of indulgence. This cake can serve as your favorite cake for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or any time you crave a delicious homemade treat. Plus, you can adapt the recipe to make cherry chip cupcakes or even a sheet cake for larger events. Enjoy creating and sharing a dessert that marries simplicity with delightful taste!

Ingredients for Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

Below is a complete list of ingredients you will need to create your very own cherry chip cake. We have divided the ingredients into two sections—one for the cake batter and one for the frosting—to make the process as clear as possible.

For the Cake

• 1 Box Cherry Chip Cake Mix
  (Preferably a high-quality mix such as Betty Crocker brand, though you may choose any favorite box mix.)
• 1/2 cup Cake Flour
  (Sifted to ensure a light and airy texture.)
• 1 cup Water
  (Or as directed on your cake mix package.)
• 1/3 cup Melted Butter
  (You may use margarine if a dairy-free option is needed.)
• 3 Large Eggs
  (At room temperature for better integration into the batter.)
• 1/4 cup Buttermilk and Maraschino Cherry Juice
  (Mixed together to boost the cherry flavor naturally.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
  (Enhances the nutty undertone of the cake.)
• 1 teaspoon Cherry Extract
  (For a more intense and subtle cherry flavor.)
• 1/2 cup Chopped Maraschino Cherries
  (Folded gently into the batter for texture and additional cherry bursts.)

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
  (Softened at room temperature.)
• 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
  (For a smooth and sweet finish.)
• 2-3 Tablespoons Milk or Cherry Juice
  (Adjust to achieve a creamy consistency.)
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  (For a classic flavor note.)
• Optional: A Few Drops of Cherry Extract
  (For extra cherry flavor in the frosting.)

How to Make Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create a delicious cake that impresses every time. Our method is designed to be simple yet comprehensive, ensuring that you can make the cake with confidence and ease.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential to ensure your cake bakes evenly.
2. Prepare your cake pans. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust lightly with cake flour. This helps the cake release smoothly after baking.
3. If you prefer a sheet cake version, line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until they are smooth and creamy. Use a mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed to maintain a gentle, even mix.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step helps to develop a smooth batter.
3. Pour in the water, melted butter, and the buttermilk and maraschino cherry juice mixture. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, combine the box cake mix with the sifted cake flour. Sifting the cake flour ensures there are no lumps, helping the cake achieve a light and airy texture.
2. Add the almond extract and cherry extract to the dry mix. These extracts provide a balanced depth of flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed to combine, ensuring you do not overmix the batter.
2. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries. Take care that the cherries do not sink to the bottom of the cake. They should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, providing delightful bursts of cherry in every bite.
3. Your batter should be smooth and glossy, with a noticeable cherry flavor that promises a delicious result.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Tap the pans lightly on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
2. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
3. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
4. If you are making a boxed cake mix version for a thicker cake layer, adjust your baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the color and texture.

Step 6: Cool Completely

1. Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
2. Carefully remove each cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. This step is important so that the cake does not retain excess moisture.
3. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding to the frosting stage. Cooling is crucial for achieving the best texture, ensuring that the frosting adheres properly.

Step 7: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

1. In a large bowl, add the softened butter and beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar while beating the mixture continuously.
3. Incorporate the vanilla extract and the milk (or a little extra cherry juice for a hint of fruitiness). Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. For a unique twist, you can add a few drops of cherry extract to emphasize the cherry notes in your frosting. The result will be a beautifully smooth buttercream frosting that pairs perfectly with your cake.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a clean plate or cake stand. This layer forms the base of your dessert.
2. Spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top of the first layer. This step helps the layers stick together and adds a creamy texture.
3. Carefully position the second cake layer on top of the first. Make sure the layers align for a neat, professional look.
4. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top of the cake and the sides. Start at the center and work your way to the edges, ensuring an even coat.
5. If you are interested in trying a chip cake with whipped vanilla style, you can lightly swirl extra frosting on the top before serving.

Step 9: Final Decoration and Touches

1. To add an extra burst of cherry flavor, drizzle a small amount of maraschino cherry juice over the edge of the cake. This subtle addition enhances both taste and presentation.
2. For a festive look, consider placing a few whole maraschino cherries on the top. This final touch not only looks attractive but also reinforces the distinctive cherry chip cake recipe charm.
3. With your careful assembly, you now have a cake with whipped vanilla buttercream that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Step 10: Enjoy and Share

1. Serve the cake immediately after decorating, or cover it loosely with plastic wrap if you plan to serve it later.
2. When you slice the cake, you will notice the even distribution of cherries and the perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
3. Remember, this is a versatile recipe. You can experiment by making this recipe as cupcakes or even a sheet cake for larger gatherings.
4. Every step, from preparing the batter to frosting the cake, is designed to ensure that your finished dessert is nothing short of amazing. It’s so easy to create a delicious cherry chip cake that brings both traditional charm and innovative flavor to your table.

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoying your cherry chip cake at its best is simple with a few handy tips:

• Serving Suggestions:
  Serve your cake on a decorative plate or cake stand to enhance its presentation. This cake is ideal as a birthday cake, a celebratory treat, or simply a delightful dessert after dinner. Consider pairing each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a side of fresh fruit to complement the rich cherry flavor.
• Storage:
  If you have leftovers, wrap the cake layers tightly with plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain the moisture and flavor of the cake. To serve later, allow the cake to come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. If you decide to store cake layers separately, be sure to label them to maintain freshness and ease of reassembly when it is time to frost again. This guide provides comprehensive information on the safe freezing of various foods, including best practices and safety guidelines.
• Versatility:
  This recipe can also be adapted to create cherry chip cupcakes. Use the same batter and adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for smaller, equally delicious treats. Additionally, you may experiment with the recipe by substituting part of the cake mix with white cake mix to create an old fashioned cherry chip cake with a unique twist.

Helpful Notes

• Ingredient Substitutions:
  If you prefer a more homemade approach, you can create your own cake mix by using cake flour and a blend of baking powder and salt. This option allows you to control the ingredients and craft a truly homemade cherry chip cake. For a similar result to a boxed cake mix, ensure you measure carefully and follow the mixing instructions diligently.
• Mixing Techniques:
  When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired light and fluffy cake. Use a gentle folding motion when incorporating the chopped maraschino cherries to ensure they remain evenly distributed and do not sink to the bottom.
• Flavor Enhancements:
  For those who enjoy experimenting, consider adding a small amount of cocoa powder if you’re in the mood for a hint of chocolate. Although this recipe is designed for a classic cherry cake, a subtle mix of chocolate can create a unique flavor combination. Additionally, try adding almond extract and cherry extract as specified to further deepen the cake’s taste profile.
• Equipment Tips:
  Use a stand mixer or hand mixer with a paddle attachment to ensure that the butter and sugar are well combined before adding the eggs. If you ever need to mix on low speed for delicate steps, this setting is perfect for avoiding overmixing. Having prepared cake pans and the right tools makes all the difference in achieving a successful outcome.
• Additional Inspiration:
  Many home bakers find that a betty crocker cherry chip cake is a nostalgic treat. Some even say that their brother loved cherry chip cake so much that it became a family favorite. Whether you choose to follow this as a from-scratch recipe or rely on a trusted boxed mix, this cake offers plenty of room for creativity and personalization. If you ever get stuck, refer back to these best cake tips to guide you through the process.
• Experiment and Adapt:
  This recipe is flexible. You can choose to add the egg whites separately or mix them together with the other eggs. Likewise, you may add the flour mixture gradually to ensure the batter maintains its perfect consistency. Some bakers even make a delicious homemade version of the retro cake by tweaking the proportions to suit their tastes. Whether you decide to use a betty crocker box cake mix or try a boxed cherry chip cake variant, the key is to enjoy the process and create a cake that truly reflects your style.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this cherry chip cake recipe is designed to deliver a memorable baking experience with results that impress both in taste and presentation. By following our clear instructions—from preparing the batter with care to assembling and frosting each cake layer—you can create a dessert that stands out as a delicious, classic treat with a twist of cherry. The blend of a reliable box mix with enhancements like maraschino cherry juice, fresh cherries, and the perfect buttercream frosting results in a cake that is both traditional and innovative. This recipe works beautifully for any occasion, whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to something special.

We believe that baking should be an enjoyable process, and our guide ensures that every step is accessible and easy to follow. With practical serving and storage tips, along with helpful notes for substitutions and flavor tweaks, you are equipped with all you need to make an outstanding cherry chip cake. Enjoy the process, experiment with variations like a chip cake with whipped vanilla, and take pride in presenting a cake that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. We hope that you find this recipe to be one of your favorite cake creations, and we invite you to share your experience and any creative modifications you try along the way. Happy baking!

_______________________________________

Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Enjoy our cherry chip cake recipe for a moist, delicious dessert with a burst of flavor. Get step-by-step tips and bake your perfect cake now!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Slices

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake

• 1 Box Cherry Chip Cake Mix
• 1/2 cup Cake Flour
• 1 cup Water
• 1/3 cup Melted Butter
• 3 Large Eggs
• 1/4 cup Buttermilk and Maraschino Cherry Juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
• 1 teaspoon Cherry Extract
• 1/2 cup Chopped Maraschino Cherries

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
• 2 Cups Powdered Sugar
• 2-3 Tablespoons Milk or Cherry Juice
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• Optional: A Few Drops of Cherry Extract

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential to ensure your cake bakes evenly.
• Prepare your cake pans. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust lightly with cake flour. This helps the cake release smoothly after baking.
• If you prefer a sheet cake version, line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until they are smooth and creamy. Use a mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed to maintain a gentle, even mix.
• Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step helps to develop a smooth batter.
• Pour in the water, melted butter, and the buttermilk and maraschino cherry juice mixture. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, combine the box cake mix with the sifted cake flour. Sifting the cake flour ensures there are no lumps, helping the cake achieve a light and airy texture.
• Add the almond extract and cherry extract to the dry mix. These extracts provide a balanced depth of flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed to combine, ensuring you do not overmix the batter.
• Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries. Take care that the cherries do not sink to the bottom of the cake. They should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, providing delightful bursts of cherry in every bite.
• Your batter should be smooth and glossy, with a noticeable cherry flavor that promises a delicious result.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Tap the pans lightly on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
• To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• If you are making a boxed cake mix version for a thicker cake layer, adjust your baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the color and texture.

Step 6: Cool Completely

• Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
• Carefully remove each cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. This step is important so that the cake does not retain excess moisture.
• Let the cake cool completely before proceeding to the frosting stage. Cooling is crucial for achieving the best texture, ensuring that the frosting adheres properly.

Step 7: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

• In a large bowl, add the softened butter and beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture is smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar while beating the mixture continuously.
• Incorporate the vanilla extract and the milk (or a little extra cherry juice for a hint of fruitiness). Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
• For a unique twist, you can add a few drops of cherry extract to emphasize the cherry notes in your frosting. The result will be a beautifully smooth buttercream frosting that pairs perfectly with your cake.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a clean plate or cake stand. This layer forms the base of your dessert.
• Spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top of the first layer. This step helps the layers stick together and adds a creamy texture.
• Carefully position the second cake layer on top of the first. Make sure the layers align for a neat, professional look.
• Use the remaining frosting to cover the top of the cake and the sides. Start at the center and work your way to the edges, ensuring an even coat.
• If you are interested in trying a chip cake with whipped vanilla style, you can lightly swirl extra frosting on the top before serving.

Step 9: Final Decoration and Touches

• To add an extra burst of cherry flavor, drizzle a small amount of maraschino cherry juice over the edge of the cake. This subtle addition enhances both taste and presentation.
• For a festive look, consider placing a few whole maraschino cherries on the top. This final touch not only looks attractive but also reinforces the distinctive cherry chip cake recipe charm.
• With your careful assembly, you now have a cake with whipped vanilla buttercream that looks as delightful as it tastes.

Step 10: Enjoy and Share

• Serve the cake immediately after decorating, or cover it loosely with plastic wrap if you plan to serve it later.
• When you slice the cake, you will notice the even distribution of cherries and the perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
• Remember, this is a versatile recipe. You can experiment by making this recipe as cupcakes or even a sheet cake for larger gatherings.
• Every step, from preparing the batter to frosting the cake, is designed to ensure that your finished dessert is nothing short of amazing. It’s so easy to create a delicious cherry chip cake that brings both traditional charm and innovative flavor to your table.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Sugars: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1.5g
• Sodium: 200mg

 

Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is estimated based on automated calculations and should be viewed as an approximation. These values are offered as a helpful reference and may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate results, please consult your own nutritional data or preferred brand values.

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