German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a hug from your grandma, you’ve come to the right place! This German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe is not just any cake; it’s a special creation that has been passed down through generations. The combination of juicy cherries and a crunchy streusel topping makes it an instant favorite for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weekend get-together with friends.

The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but delicious enough to impress at celebrations. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful cake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can shine.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet cherry flavor and crumbly topping!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake it in advance and store it for later enjoyment—perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a birthday, potluck, or just because, this cake fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun, and this recipe calls for simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful German Cherry Cake:

For the Cake

• 250g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 240ml (1 cup) buttermilk
• 400g (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved

For the Streusel Topping

• 100g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 75g (1/3 cup packed) brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 75g (1/3 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed

For the Optional Glaze

• 120g (1 cup) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or cherry juice

Variations

This German Cherry Cake recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds for an added crunch.
• Mix in Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or ginger to the batter.
• Try Other Fruits: Substitute cherries with blueberries or raspberries if you want a different taste.
• Make It Chocolatey: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate version!

How to Make German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

First things first—let’s get that delicious streusel ready! In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Now comes the fun part: cut in the cold butter until everything looks like coarse crumbs. This step gives your streusel that perfect crunchy texture. Once mixed, pop it in the fridge while we prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so your cake won’t stick later on. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps ensure that our cake rises beautifully!

Step 3: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your mixture—making your cake tender and soft! Next, add in those eggs one at a time while stirring gently. Don’t forget to mix in vanilla extract; it adds such lovely flavor!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture while alternating with buttermilk. Start and finish with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in those halved cherries. They are going to create little pockets of juicy goodness throughout your cake. Be careful not to crush them; we want those beautiful pieces intact!

Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly using a spatula. It should look inviting already!

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Take out that chilled streusel topping from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over your cake batter—this is where magic happens! Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let that beauty cool in its pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 9: Optional Glaze

If you want an extra touch of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar with milk or cherry juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over your cooled cake once set; trust me—it’s worth it!

And there you have it—a delightful German Cherry Cake that will surely become a cherished recipe! Enjoy slicing into this beauty at any occasion.

Pro Tips for Making German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe

Baking this delightful cake can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your cherry cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this recipe, but if they’re not in season, frozen cherries work just as well. They add the same delicious flavor and juiciness, making your cake equally scrumptious.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture, while gentle mixing keeps it light and fluffy.

• Chill Your Streusel Topping: Keeping the streusel topping cold before baking helps it maintain its crumbly texture. This creates a delightful contrast with the moist cake beneath, making each bite irresistible.

• Allow to Cool Before Glazing: After baking, let your cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the warm cake and ensures a beautiful finish.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Adding a splash of almond extract or lemon zest can enhance the flavors of the cherries and create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

How to Serve German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe

Serving your German Cherry Cake is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that will elevate its flavors. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Sliced Almonds: Sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds on top for a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the cherries.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing taste that brightens up each slice.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream for added richness that pairs beautifully with the tart cherries.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and contrasts perfectly with the warm cake, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a fresh balance to the richness of the cake. Choose fruits like berries or citrus for brightness.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving your cake alongside a rich cup of coffee or fragrant herbal tea enhances its flavors and makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome side dish that adds texture and health benefits to your dessert spread.

Enjoy your baking journey, and I hope you love sharing this delightful German Cherry Cake as much as I do!

Make Ahead and Storage

This German Cherry Cake is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual servings for easy thawing later.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label and date your package!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, heat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can warm slices in a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

What is German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe?

German Cherry Cake is a traditional dessert that features a moist cake base topped with sweet cherries and a crunchy streusel topping. It’s perfect for special occasions or just as a comforting treat at home.

Can I use frozen cherries for German Cherry Cake?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before folding them into your batter to prevent excess moisture.

How can I make German Cherry Cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. It will create a similar texture without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with German Cherry Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You could also serve it with a dollop of yogurt for a lighter option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this German Cherry Cake as much as I do! Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it so special, whether you’re celebrating an occasion or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I would love to hear how yours turns out! Happy baking!