Are you ready to elevate your baking game? This Cherry Almond Coffee Cake combines the sweet, tart taste of cherries with the warm notes of almonds. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. I’ll walk you through easy steps and share tips to make the best cake possible. Follow along, and let’s create a delightful treat you’ll love to share!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of cherries and almonds creates a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This coffee cake comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert, this cake fits beautifully into any setting or event.
- Stunning Presentation: The addition of sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar makes this cake not only tasty but also visually appealing for serving.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this delightful cake. The flour gives the cake structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Softened butter helps achieve a rich, tender crumb. Whole milk keeps the cake moist, and eggs provide binding.
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, making the cake rise. Vanilla and almond extracts infuse the batter with sweet, nutty flavors. Cherries add a burst of juicy sweetness, while sliced almonds add a crunchy texture. The salt balances the flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
You can dust the finished cake with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. This cake is not just tasty; it’s a feast for the eyes too! Each bite is a mix of sweet cherries and nutty almonds, making it a memorable treat for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease or line a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mixing the Batter
– First, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Use a mixer and mix for 3 to 4 minutes.
– Next, add eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
– In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients well.
Baking the Cake
– Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, alternating with milk. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
– Gently fold in the halved cherries using a spatula. Ensure they are evenly spread throughout.
– Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
– Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top for a crunchy finish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
– Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This process makes a cherry almond coffee cake that is moist and full of flavor. You can also dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Enjoy the delightful taste!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your coffee cake, avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients blend. This keeps the cake soft and light.
Also, pay attention to how you soften the butter. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature. It should be soft but not melted. This helps create that fluffy batter we want.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices pair well with cherries and almonds. They add warmth and depth.
Using quality extracts is also key. Always choose pure vanilla and almond extracts. They will give your cake a rich and true flavor.
Presentation Suggestions
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can make your cake look fancy. Just sprinkle it on top before serving. It adds a nice touch and sweetness.
Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves. They add color and a fresh taste. Place a few leaves next to your cake slices for a beautiful look.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh cherries will provide the best flavor and texture for this coffee cake. If using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a light and fluffy batter when creaming the butter and sugar.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
- Cool on a Wire Rack: Allowing the cake to cool on a wire rack prevents moisture from building up at the bottom, ensuring a perfectly textured cake.
Variations
Swapping Cherries
You can switch cherries for other fruits. Blueberries and raspberries work great. These berries add a pop of color and flavor. They keep the cake moist and tasty. Try mixing different fruits for a fun twist. You can even use peaches or plums. Each fruit brings its own unique taste to the cake.
Added Flavor Components
Adding chocolate or coconut can change the game. Chocolate chips give a rich, sweet taste. You can mix in about half a cup for a nice surprise. Shredded coconut adds a chewy texture and a tropical vibe. Just use about a third of a cup. This combo makes the cake even more delicious. Feel free to experiment with other flavors you love!
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free cake, don’t worry. You can use gluten-free flour blends. These blends often work well in recipes. Just swap the all-purpose flour for the gluten-free mix. Follow the package instructions for the best results. Your cake will still be moist and tasty. This way, everyone can enjoy the cake!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake moist, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the cake in an airtight container to prevent drying out. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, place it in the fridge. Just remember, cold air can dry it out, so wrap it tightly.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the cake, start by letting it cool completely. Then, slice it into pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This helps keep the cake fresh and easy to grab. When you want to enjoy a piece, take it out and let it thaw. Place it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy the delicious taste as if it were just baked!
FAQs
What can I substitute for almonds?
If you want to replace almonds, you can try walnuts or pecans. Both add a nice crunch. You can also skip nuts for a nut-free cake. Just remember, the flavor will change slightly.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time! Bake it and let it cool. Wrap it well in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to two days. You can also keep it in the fridge for a few more days.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just thaw and drain them first. This helps keep the cake from getting too watery. They will taste great in the cake.
How long will the cake last in the fridge?
The cake will last about five days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist for longer.
This cake recipe brings together simple ingredients for a delightful treat. You learned how to make a cherry almond cake from start to finish. I shared tips to enhance flavor and achieve the perfect texture. You also saw fun variations to try, along with storage tips to enjoy leftovers. Baking is an adventure, so embrace your creativity and enjoy every bite! Your new dessert is sure to impres
