Sweet & Fluffy Cherry Cake Recipe Everyone Will Adore

Sweet memories swirl around this delightful cherry cake that bridges nostalgic comfort with modern baking charm.

Fragrant cherries burst with vibrant color against a tender crumb backdrop.

Bakers seeking a delectable dessert will adore this simple yet sophisticated treat.

Seasonal fruit adds natural sweetness and stunning visual appeal to every slice.

Compact ingredients ensure anyone can master this delightful recipe with confidence.

Rich buttery notes complement the bright cherry flavor perfectly.

You’ll fall in love with each decadent, fruit-studded bite that promises pure culinary joy.

Questions About Delia Smith Cherry Cake Answered

• Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

• Is it necessary to cook the cherries before adding them to the cake?

Cooking cherries helps concentrate their flavor and reduces excess liquid, which prevents a soggy cake bottom. It’s recommended but not absolutely mandatory.

• What kind of yogurt works best for this recipe?

Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is ideal as it provides moisture and richness to the cake. Low-fat or non-fat yogurt can be used, but the texture might be slightly different.

• Can I substitute olive oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil as alternatives. However, olive oil adds a unique flavor that complements the cherries, so try to use it if possible.

Why Delia Smith Cherry Cake Is A Classic Favorite

• Savor Simplicity: This cherry cake recipe breaks down complex baking into straightforward steps anyone can master, perfect for beginners wanting to explore their culinary skills.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible ingredients like optional olive oil drizzle and adaptable cherry cooking method allow home bakers to personalize the cake to their taste preferences.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combining sweet cherries with soft cake texture makes this recipe a guaranteed hit for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend treats that everyone will enjoy.
• Nutritious Indulgence: Incorporating yogurt and olive oil adds healthier elements to a classic dessert, providing a more balanced sweet experience without sacrificing delicious flavor.

Delia Smith Cherry Cake Ingredient List

• Cherries: Sweet and juicy fruits that add a burst of flavor and moisture to the cake.
• Flour: The primary base that provides structure and texture to the cake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps in caramelization during baking.

• Olive Oil, Eggs, Yogurt: Create a rich, moist base that binds the cake together and adds softness.
• Butter: Enhances flavor and helps cook the cherries with a rich, golden touch.

• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and create a light, fluffy texture.

How To Bake Delia Smith Cherry Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat the oven to 350F. Grab a 9×12-inch baking dish and generously coat the interior with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Dry Mixture

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda

Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended.

Step 3: Cook Cherries

Heat a skillet over medium flame. Add cherries and cook them gently, allowing their natural juices to release. Sprinkle a touch of sugar over the fruits, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the cherries become soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Eggs
• Yogurt

Gently fold and stir the ingredients until a smooth batter forms, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Assemble Cake

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish. Distribute the cooked cherries evenly across the top. For extra richness, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the surface.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Place the cake in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is ready when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.

Tips To Get Delia Smith Cherry Cake Just Right

• Boost Cherry Flavor: Toss fresh cherries in a bit of flour before adding to prevent sinking in the cake batter.
• Prevent Dryness: Use full-fat yogurt to keep the cake moist and tender, creating a rich texture.
• Check Cake Doneness: Insert a toothpick at an angle near the center; if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked.
• Enhance Sweetness: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegant presentation.
• Storage Secret: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and soft texture.

Fun Takes On Delia Smith Cherry Cake

• Gluten-Free Cherry Delight: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a low-carb, gluten-free version. Maintain the same measurements and baking process.
• Vegan Cherry Cake: Swap eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg). Use coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt. Keep other ingredients consistent.
• Low-Sugar Cherry Treat: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Reduce the amount to half for a diabetic-friendly option. Use fresh cherries for natural sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Cherry Cake: Replace yogurt with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. Use plant-based oil instead of olive oil. Maintain the same baking temperature and time.

Perfect Pairings With Delia Smith Cherry Cake

• Pair Refreshing Citrus Mocktail: Craft a zesty lemon-lime spritzer with fresh mint leaves to complement the sweet cherry cake's rich flavors.
• Match Creamy Vanilla Latte: Brew a smooth, velvety vanilla latte that echoes the cake's soft texture and enhances its fruity undertones.
• Select Almond Whipped Cream: Dollop homemade almond-infused whipped cream alongside the cake to add a delicate nutty contrast and creamy elegance.
• Serve Chilled Champagne Spritz: Pour a light, bubbly champagne spritzer with a hint of elderflower to elevate the dessert's fruity essence and provide a sophisticated touch.

How To Store Delia Smith Cherry Cake The Right Way

• Store covered in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Place cooled cake in a freezer-safe container or wrap securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date.
• Remove from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours. Alternatively, defrost in refrigerator overnight for best texture.
• Warm individual slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For oven reheating, place on baking sheet and warm at 300F for 10-15 minutes until slightly heated through.

Cherry Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 55-65 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Sweet cherries dance through this classic Cherry Cake, bringing European baking charm to your kitchen. Moist crumb and delicate fruit create a perfect dessert you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups pitted fresh sweet cherries
• 4 large eggs
• 1 (6 ounces) container of plain yogurt

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Wet and Supplementary Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and coat a 9×12-inch baking dish with grease for smooth cake release.
2. Combine dry ingredients in a mixing bowl, ensuring an even distribution of sugar, flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, then gently simmer cherries for 8-10 minutes, sprinkling with sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Create a central depression in the dry ingredient mixture, then pour in olive oil, eggs, and yogurt. Fold ingredients together with a gentle motion until just incorporated.
5. Transfer the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface. Distribute the caramelized cherries across the top, allowing them to sink slightly into the batter.
6. Optional: Lightly drizzle additional olive oil over the cake surface for enhanced flavor and moisture.
7. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean with no raw batter clinging to it. The cake should display a golden-brown exterior.

Notes

• Softening Cherries: Gently cook cherries in butter to release their natural sweetness and create a more intense flavor profile.
• Oil Substitution: Replace olive oil with vegetarian alternatives like coconut or avocado oil for different dietary needs.
• Texture Enhancement: Ensure gentle mixing to maintain a light, fluffy cake texture without overmixing the batter.
• Ripeness Matters: Use ripe, fresh cherries for maximum natural sweetness and optimal moisture in the cake.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 292 kcal
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg