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Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake

A delightful cherry-flavored cake that brings joy and nostalgia, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoons salt
  • 0.75 cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.75 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 0.5 cups maraschino cherry juice
  • 0.5 cups milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 0.75 cups maraschino cherries, chopped
For the Frosting
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk add if needed for consistency
For Garnish
  • Whole maraschino cherries for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Mixing the Batter
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Mix in the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined.
  5. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
Baking the Cake
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
  1. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. Blend in the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract, adding milk as needed to reach desired consistency.
Assembling the Cake
  1. Spread frosting over the first cake layer, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
  2. Garnish with whole maraschino cherries.

Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best frosting texture. For variations, consider adding almond extract or swapping frosting for whipped cream.