Cherry Smashed Cake: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide

Cherry Smashed Cake: Prepare to be amazed by a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to devour! Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, tender cake bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of fresh cherries. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

While the exact origins of Cherry Smashed Cake are shrouded in a bit of mystery, similar fruit-studded cakes have been enjoyed for generations, particularly in regions known for their bountiful cherry harvests. Think of it as a rustic, home-style treat, the kind of cake your grandmother might have whipped up on a warm summer afternoon. It embodies the spirit of using seasonal ingredients at their peak, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and incredibly flavorful.

What makes this cake so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The cake itself is wonderfully soft and buttery, providing a beautiful contrast to the juicy, slightly tangy cherries that are “smashed” throughout. This smashing technique isn’t just for fun; it releases the cherries’ natural juices, infusing the entire cake with their vibrant essence. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Forget complicated techniques and fussy decorations. This cake is all about simplicity and deliciousness, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. The ease of preparation and the incredible flavor profile are just a few reasons why people adore this Cherry Smashed Cake.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Cherry Smash:
• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved (or quartered if large)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cherry liqueur (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Frosting:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream, to adjust consistency
• Optional Garnish:
• Fresh cherries, for topping
• Chopped nuts (almonds or pecans work well)
• Sprinkles (because why not?)

Preparing the Cherry Smash:

This is where the magic happens! The cherry smash is what makes this cake so incredibly flavorful and moist. Don’t skip this step!

1. Combine Cherries and Sugar: In a large saucepan, combine the pitted and halved (or quartered) cherries and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well to coat the cherries evenly.
2. Add Liqueur and Lemon Juice: Pour in the cherry liqueur (if using) and the lemon juice. The liqueur adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but the lemon juice is essential for balancing the sweetness and bringing out the cherry’s natural tang.
3. Cook Down the Cherries: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and released their juices. The mixture should thicken slightly, but it will continue to thicken as it cools.
4. Smash the Cherries (Gently!): Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently smash about half of the cherries. This will release more of their juices and create a jam-like consistency. Don’t over-smash; you want to leave some whole cherry pieces for texture.
5. Cool Completely: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cherry smash cool completely. This is important because you don’t want to add warm cherries to your cake batter. You can even make the cherry smash a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Making the Cake Batter:

Now, let’s get to the cake itself! This is a simple but delicious cake recipe that’s perfectly complemented by the cherry smash.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Start by adding about 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then 1/2 of the buttermilk, then another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last 1/3 of the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the Cherry Smash: Gently fold in the cooled cherry smash into the cake batter. Be careful not to overmix; you want to distribute the cherries evenly without deflating the batter.
7. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Baking the Cake:

Almost there! The aroma of this cake baking is simply divine.

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

This creamy, tangy frosting is the perfect complement to the sweet and fruity cake. It’s easy to make and absolutely irresistible.

1. Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Start on low speed to prevent a powdered sugar cloud.
3. Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You want it to be spreadable but not too runny.

Assembling the Cherry Smashed Cake:

The final step! This is where you get to put it all together and create a beautiful and delicious masterpiece.

1. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish the cake with fresh cherries, chopped nuts, or sprinkles. Get creative and have fun with it!
3. Chill (Optional): For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve and Enjoy!: Cut the cake into squares and serve. This Cherry Smashed Cake is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dessert to a special celebration. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Cherry Smashed Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a burst of summer sunshine in every bite, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. I truly believe you’ll find this recipe an absolute must-try, and here’s why: the combination of the sweet, juicy cherries with the tender, buttery cake is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of flavor that lingers on your palate, making you crave another slice (and another!). The “smashed” element adds a rustic charm and ensures that every piece is packed with cherry goodness.

But the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Forget complicated techniques and hours spent in the kitchen. This recipe is designed for simplicity, so even beginner bakers can achieve stunning results. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight treat or a weekend baking project with the family.

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, this cake is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience. Or, for a more sophisticated touch, try pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream infused with almond extract. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a drizzle of melted chocolate takes it to a whole new level of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a brunch treat: Serve slices alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
* For a potluck: This cake travels well and is always a hit.
* For a special occasion: Dress it up with fresh cherries and a sprig of mint.
* Cherry Almond Smashed Cake: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a nutty twist.
* Chocolate Cherry Smashed Cake: Fold in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a decadent variation.
* Spiced Cherry Smashed Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a warm, comforting flavor.
* Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a dietary-friendly version.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking (and eating!) this delightful cake. I’ve poured my heart into creating a recipe that’s both delicious and accessible, and I truly believe it will become a new favorite in your household.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a Cherry Smashed Cake masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Baking is all about having fun and creating something delicious to share with loved ones.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about your baking adventures. Happy baking! I am confident that you will love this recipe as much as I do.