Sweet Polish Cherry Cake

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan with butter and dust with flour.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the butter and 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Spread the batter into the prepared cake pan and top with the cherries. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts

• The cake is known as a "szarlotka" in Poland.
• This type of cake has been popular in Poland since the 18th century.
• In some parts of Poland, the cake is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream.