Name: Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 54 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar; 3/4 cup (170g) salted butter, softened; 1 large egg, room temperature; 4 large egg whites, room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups (353g) all-purpose flour; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice; 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream, room temperature; 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature; 3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (about 1 cup before chopping); 1 1/2 cups (341g) salted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups (341g) vegetable shortening; 12 cups (1,440g) powdered sugar; 6-8 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice; Additional maraschino cherries with stems (for decorating)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 84 reviews

If you are searching for a delightful dessert that feels like a big, warm hug in cake form, this Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with juicy maraschino cherries, a moist, tender crumb, and a cherry-infused buttery frosting, it’s a showstopper that’s perfect for celebrations or simply brightening an ordinary day. This cake manages to be both nostalgic and elegant, showcasing how a handful of simple ingredients can create a masterpiece that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a large white bowl filled with light tan flour on the left side. Above it, there is a small glass container with white powder, likely baking soda or baking powder, next to a small bowl holding light golden brown vanilla extract. In the center, there is a jar of red maraschino cherries in syrup. To the right of the jar, there is a glass bowl full of fine white sugar and next to it, a black measuring cup filled with white sour cream. Below the sugar, two sticks of pale yellow butter are placed side by side. Below the flour bowl, a small glass container holds creamy white milk, and next to it, a small white bowl contains a golden liquid, possibly oil. At the bottom right corner, there is a single brown egg resting in a white egg carton that holds five empty slots. The overall setup is clean and organized, with a bright natural light enhancing the clear colors and textures of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a few straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients is the secret to this cake’s charm. Each one plays a key role: from giving the cake its moist texture, to adding that unmistakable cherry flavor and the irresistible creamy frosting color and richness.

Granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the tartness of the cherries and helps create a tender crumb.
Salted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture, ensuring the cake is perfectly soft.
Large egg and egg whites: Provide structure while keeping the cake light and airy.
Pure vanilla extract: Offers a warm, subtle depth to the overall flavor profile.
All-purpose flour: Forms the foundation for the cake’s structure without weighing it down.
Baking powder: Gives the cake its rise and fluffy texture.
Maraschino cherry juice: Infuses the batter and frosting with that signature cherry taste and lovely pink hue.
Full-fat sour cream: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender with a slight tanginess.
Whole milk: Enhances the batter’s smoothness and consistency.
Chopped maraschino cherries: Little bursts of juicy, sweet cherry goodness dotted throughout every bite.
Vegetable shortening: Along with butter, it creates a frosting that’s fluffy yet stable enough to frost beautifully.
Powdered sugar: The sweet base of the luscious frosting.
Additional maraschino cherries with stems: Perfect for decorating and adding a classic touch.

How to Make Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, then prep three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles and spray the sides to ensure your cake layers bake evenly and release easily.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until they become light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is vital because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Blend in the whole egg, egg whites, and the vanilla extract, making sure to scrape the bowl sometimes to get an even mixture. These eggs help build the cake’s structure while keeping it soft and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients Alternately

Slowly add half the flour and baking powder, mixing just until a few flour streaks remain—don’t overmix! Then add the sour cream and maraschino cherry juice, stirring well before adding the remaining flour. Finish with the milk, making sure everything is combined but not overworked.

Step 5: Fold in the Chopped Maraschino Cherries

These cherry pieces are what make this cake truly special, speckling every slice with bursts of sweetness and a gorgeous pop of color.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide your batter evenly into the three pans and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few crumbs. Let them cool completely on wire racks — patience here is rewarded with perfectly tender layers.

Step 7: Prepare the Cherry-Infused Frosting

Beat together softened butter and vegetable shortening until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar alternated with maraschino cherry juice. This method creates a luscious frosting that’s creamy yet fluffy, with just the right pink tint and cherry flavor.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Level each cake layer by trimming any domed tops. Spread generous layers of frosting between the cake layers and coat the top and sides of the cake. Save about 1 cup of frosting for decorative piping. Garnish with extra maraschino cherries for that classic finishing touch.

How to Serve Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

A three-layer pink cake stands on a white plate with soft pink frosting covering the outside. Each cake layer is light pink with visible red cherry pieces inside, separated by smooth, creamy pink frosting layers. The outside is frosted evenly with the same pink cream, topped with swirls of piped pink frosting, each holding a bright red cherry with a long stem. The cake sits on a white marbled surface in front of a plain white background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Decorate with fresh maraschino cherries with stems to instantly elevate the cake’s presentation and add a nostalgic charm that will remind everyone of a classic soda fountain treat.

Side Dishes

This cherry chip cake pairs beautifully with a light dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the cake into individual pavlova-style mini servings topped with cherries and a drizzle of cherry syrup. Alternatively, serve on colorful vintage-style plates to highlight its old-school charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Wrapped or stored in an airtight container, it will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This cake can be frozen if wrapped well with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze it for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy the same delightful texture.

Reheating

Because this is a moist, frosted cake, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer, bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries will add a wonderful natural flavor and texture but lack the signature sweetness and color provided by maraschino cherries. If using fresh, you may want to add a little extra sugar and cherry juice to the batter and frosting to maintain balance.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still shine.

How do I prevent my frosting from being too runny?

To keep the frosting just right, add cherry juice gradually and only until the frosting is spreadable and slightly sticky. If it becomes too thin, add more powdered sugar until the right consistency is reached.

Can I make this cake into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Use the same batter but reduce baking time to 18-22 minutes. Cupcakes make a fun, portable way to enjoy the cherry chip cake flavors in smaller portions.

What’s the best way to level the cake layers?

Use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to trim off any domed tops, working slowly and carefully to create an even surface for stacking and frosting.

Final Thoughts

There is something so special about a Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe that brings a smile with every bite. Whether it’s your go-to for family gatherings or a new signature dessert to impress friends, this cherry-filled delight balances nostalgia and elegance effortlessly. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becomes one of your all-time favorites!