Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake combines the vibrant color and unique taste of maraschino cherries with a soft crumb and subtle vanilla flavor. It’s easy to bake, keeps well, and offers a delightful balance of sweetness and fruitiness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
All-purpose flour
-
Baking powder
-
Salt
-
Unsalted butter (softened)
-
Granulated sugar
-
Eggs
-
Vanilla extract
-
Maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
-
Maraschino cherry juice (optional, for extra flavor)
-
Milk
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
-
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the flour mixture alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
-
Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and a few tablespoons of cherry juice if using.
-
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
-
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 8-10
-
Prep Time: 15 minutes
-
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
-
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
-
Frost with cream cheese or cherry-flavored frosting.
-
Make cupcakes using the same batter for individual servings.
-
Use almond extract alongside vanilla for a nutty flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices briefly in the microwave to warm.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Fresh cherries can be used but will alter the flavor and moisture content.
Is maraschino cherry juice necessary?
It’s optional but adds extra cherry flavor and color.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I prevent cherries from sinking?
Toss cherries in a little flour before folding into the batter.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, diced pineapple or berries complement the cherries well.
How do I make the cake more moist?
Ensure not to overbake and consider adding sour cream to the batter.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes, a bundt or loaf pan works; adjust baking time accordingly.
Is this cake suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s sweet, colorful, and kid-friendly.
What frosting pairs well?
Cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or simple glaze all work well.
Conclusion
Maraschino Cherry Cake is a delightful and colorful dessert that’s easy to bake and full of sweet cherry flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this classic cake brings a touch of fruity charm and moist, tender crumb to your dessert table.

Maraschino Cherry Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Maraschino Cherry Cake is a moist, tender, and vibrant cake bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of maraschino cherries. This classic dessert is easy to bake and perfect for celebrations, tea time, or anytime you want a fruity, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
-
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
-
2 ½ tsp baking powder
-
½ tsp salt
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
-
2-3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (optional)
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
-
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
-
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the flour mixture alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
-
Fold in chopped maraschino cherries and cherry juice if using.
-
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
-
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Toss cherries in a bit of flour before folding to prevent sinking.Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.Frost with cream cheese or cherry-flavored frosting for added sweetness.Use almond extract alongside vanilla for a nutty twist.This batter also works well for cupcakes or bundt cakes.