Delicious and Festive Christmas Cherry Cake

Indulge in the holiday spirit by baking this festive Christmas Cherry Cake. Made with a rich buttery batter, studded with bright red cherries, and topped with a luscious glaze, this cake is a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. The combination of juicy cherries and warm seasonal spices will delight your taste buds and fill your home with the aroma of Christmas. Whether you're celebrating with family and friends or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the chopped cherries and nuts, if using.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add a few drops of red food coloring, if desired, to achieve a festive pink color.
11. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Garnish with extra maraschino cherries, if desired.
12. Serve and enjoy this delightful Christmas Cherry Cake!

Interesting Facts