German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms your heart and fills your home with the sweet aroma of cherries, then you’ve come to the right place! This German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe is a cherished favorite of mine. It’s not just a cake; it’s a piece of tradition that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet on a busy weeknight, this cake is perfect for any moment.

What makes this recipe truly special is its delightful balance of flavors. The tart cherries pair beautifully with the rich, buttery cake and the crunchy streusel topping adds just the right texture. Trust me, every bite will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the flavors of tart cherries and sweet crumbs!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time and enjoy it fresh from the oven or serve it later with a tasty glaze.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat—it’s delicious any time of day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients should be as enjoyable as baking! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious German Cherry Cake:

For the Cake Batter

• 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

One of the best parts about baking is making recipes your own! This German Cherry Cake is flexible enough to suit various tastes. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the fruit: Use blueberries or raspberries instead of cherries for a different fruity twist.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the streusel for added warmth.
• Change the glaze: Instead of cherry juice, use lemon juice for a bright citrusy flavor in your glaze.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by making that irresistible streusel topping! In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until your mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step adds texture and sweetness on top of your cake. Once mixed, refrigerate it while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have your oven ready before you bake so that your cake rises perfectly and bakes evenly!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that they distribute evenly throughout your batter, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.

Step 4: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, cream together granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your mixture—helping create that delightful texture we all love in cakes!

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time into your creamed mixture, followed by stirring in vanilla extract. Each egg adds moisture and richness to our batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with buttermilk. Start by adding part of your dry mix first—this helps keep everything nice and smooth without overmixing!

Step 7: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in those beautiful halved cherries into your batter. Their sweet-tart flavor will shine through once baked!

Step 8: Pour into Pan

Pour your finished batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 9: Add Streusel Topping

Remove that chilled streusel from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over the top of your cake batter. This crunchy layer will bake up beautifully!

Step 10: Bake Your Cake

Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be amazing—try not to sneak too many bites before it cools!

Step 11: Cool Down

Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Glaze It Up!

For an optional glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with milk or cherry juice until smooth. Drizzle this sweet mixture over cooled cake once set—it’s totally worth it!

Now slice up this delightful German Cherry Cake for yourself or share with friends. Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking can be a joyful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your German Cherry Cake is nothing short of spectacular!

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh cherries yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently folding the ingredients helps maintain the cake’s light and fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Look for a golden-brown color and use a skewer to test—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

• Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for a bit helps it set, making it easier to transfer without breaking. A wire rack allows for even cooling, preventing sogginess.

• Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with flavors in your glaze! Adding a splash of almond extract or lemon juice can add an exciting twist to the sweetness.

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

Presenting your German Cherry Cake beautifully can enhance its appeal during any gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only add color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dairy-free alternative that adds creaminess and pairs beautifully with cherries. Just whip up some coconut cream until fluffy for an indulgent touch.
• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings over the top adds richness and a sophisticated flair that chocolate lovers will adore.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing complements the warm cherry flavor perfectly. The creaminess balances out the tartness of the cherries.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the dense cake and enhances its fruity goodness.
• Coffee or Tea: Serve slices alongside freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea. The warmth of these beverages makes each bite of cake even more delightful.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with berries creates a light dessert option that contrasts nicely with the rich cake while adding extra flavor.

With these tips and serving ideas, your German Cherry Cake will be both delicious and visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just because! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This German Cherry Cake is not only delicious but also makes for a fantastic meal prep option! You can easily prepare it in advance for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you have added glaze, it’s best to store the cake uncovered until the glaze sets.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices of cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• For microwaving, heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make German Cherry Cake with frozen cherries?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this German Cherry Cake: A Delicious & Authentic Recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.

How do I ensure my German Cherry Cake stays moist?

To keep your German Cherry Cake moist, avoid overmixing your batter and be sure to use fresh ingredients. Adding buttermilk also contributes to a tender crumb!

What is the best way to serve German Cherry Cake?

This German Cherry Cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain, with whipped cream, or topped with a light glaze as described in the recipe.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

While cherries are traditional, you can certainly experiment with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Just adjust the sweetness if needed!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and sweetness to your kitchen! The combination of tender cake and juicy cherries topped with a delightful streusel is truly special. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy family dessert night, this German Cherry Cake is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it and share it with those you love—happy baking!