Cherry Bliss Cake

Name: Cherry Bliss Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh pitted cherries; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; Cherries for garnish

Highlighted under: Dessert Lovers | Sweet Eats

I absolutely love baking cherry desserts, and this Cherry Bliss Cake is one of my favorites! The combination of fresh cherries and a soft, fluffy cake makes for a delightful treat that's one-of-a-kind. Each bite is bursting with sweet and tart flavors, which are beautifully complemented by a light creamy frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make, which means I can whip it up for last-minute gatherings without any stress!

Created by

The Homecookchefspace Team

Last updated on 2026-02-24T18:42:18.690Z

When I was developing this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of summer in a cake. I experimented with various flavor combinations and found that using almond extract along with cherries created a wonderful depth of flavor. The cake turns out moist and light, making it the perfect base for the pleasingly tart cherry topping!

One tip I've discovered is to use fresh cherries when possible, as their natural sweetness shines through when baked. Don't forget to pit the cherries; I've learned that the hard way! Whether for a birthday celebration or a cozy family gathering, this cake is always a hit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Lush cherries nestled in a light and fluffy cake
Decadent cream frosting that enhances the flavors
A beautiful centerpiece for any special occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and granulated sugar is fundamental for achieving the right texture in your Cherry Bliss Cake. The flour gives structure, while the sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the cake's moisture and tenderness. It’s essential to measure the flour correctly; too much can lead to a dry cake. If you’re out of granulated sugar, light brown sugar works well, adding a hint of caramel flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.

Cherries are the star of this recipe, both in flavor and texture. Fresh, pitted cherries impart a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the cake. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen pitted cherries can be used, but remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter. This ensures your cake won’t be soggy, maintaining its light and fluffy nature.

Baking and Cooling Tips

When baking your Cherry Bliss Cake, preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial. This allows the cake to rise evenly and develop a lovely golden color. It's advisable to rotate the pan halfway through baking for uniform cooking. You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture – aim for a moist, tender crumb that springs back when lightly touched.

Allowing the cake to cool completely in the pan is important before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures it spreads smoothly. If you're short on time, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, lifting the cake out can be done carefully with a spatula - this will help maintain its fluffy texture and prevent it from breaking apart.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh pitted cherries

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Cherries for garnish

Make sure to prepare these ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Cherry Bliss Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk and almond extract. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Cherries and Bake

Gently fold in the fresh cherries. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with additional cherries if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve at room temperature. Enjoy your delightful Cherry Bliss Cake!

Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using almond-scented whipped cream as an extra topping. Just whip heavy cream with a touch of almond extract and a bit of sugar for a delightful finish.

Frosting Insights

The frosting for your Cherry Bliss Cake plays a pivotal role in balancing flavors. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, letting the sweetness of the frosting shine through. For a creamier texture, make sure your butter is fully softened; this can typically take about 30 minutes at room temperature. If you're in a hurry, cut the butter into smaller pieces to expedite the softening process.

Adding heavy cream to the frosting not only makes it fluffier but also adds a luxurious mouthfeel. The consistency of the frosting should be spreadable but not too runny. If it's too thick, a little more heavy cream can help adjust it, while a little more powdered sugar can thicken it if it's too loose. A perfectly smooth frosting not only tastes great but also creates an appealing finish for your cake.

Serving and Storing

Serving your Cherry Bliss Cake is best at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. For an elegant touch, consider slicing it into squares and serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cherries. You can also sprinkle some grated chocolate on top for added richness and appeal if you're feeling indulgent.

If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will keep it moist and fresh. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

→ What can I serve with Cherry Bliss Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!