As the scent of warm cherries wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been transported to a quaint German café. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for German Cherry Cake—a delightful dessert that brings a touch of European charm right to your home. Not only is this cake a crowd-pleaser that makes family gatherings even more special, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays. The combination of buttery cake, sweet cherries, and a crunchy streusel topping is truly irresistible. Have you ever thought about how a simple slice of cake can evoke such joy? Let's dive into this delicious recipe together and create something memorable!
Why is this German Cherry Cake unforgettable?
Irresistible Flavor: Sweet cherries paired with a buttery cake create a luscious blend that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal baking skills, making it accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this cake is sure to impress.
Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful treat ready to bake, fitting perfectly into a busy schedule.
Streusel Perfection: The crunchy streusel topping adds a unique texture that elevates the cake, making every bite a joy.
Family Favorite: With its appealing look and taste, this cake is bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
German Cherry Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a treat!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – provides structure and stability to the cake, giving it that perfect moist texture.
- Baking powder – helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- Baking soda – enhances the cake's leavening, providing an extra lift.
- Salt – balances the sweetness of the batter for a more rounded flavor.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake, creating that delightful cake crust.
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and tenderness to the cake.
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake's moisture.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a warm aroma and flavor into the cake.
- Buttermilk – adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the cake's flavor profile.
- Pitted cherries – the star ingredient, adding juicy sweetness and a pop of color!
For the Streusel Topping
- All-purpose flour – forms the base of the streusel, giving it a crumbly texture.
- Brown sugar – adds a hint of caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Ground cinnamon – provides a warm, comforting spice note that enhances the overall taste.
- Cold unsalted butter – ensures the streusel is crumbly and not too greasy.
For the Glaze (Optional)
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the glaze, creating a delicate finish for the cake.
- Milk or cherry juice – use to achieve your desired glaze consistency, adding an optional fruity note.
This German Cherry Cake combines delightful flavors that will make your home feel warm and inviting! Enjoy the process of making this lovely dessert that’s sure to capture hearts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for German Cherry Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, combine 100g of all-purpose flour, 75g of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in 75g of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a 9x13 inch baking pan and grease the bottom and sides with a bit of butter, then dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This will create a perfect canvas for your German Cherry Cake, ensuring it releases easily once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 250g of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until evenly combined. This dry mixture will provide structure and support for the cake. Set it aside for later incorporation into the batter.
Step 4: Cream the Sugar and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 150g of granulated sugar and 100g of softened unsalted butter. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This step adds air to your batter, contributing to the cake’s delightful texture.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
With the mixer on low speed, add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Then, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is smooth. The eggs will enrich the batter and the vanilla will infuse a warm flavor, making the German Cherry Cake truly special.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with 240ml of buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this will keep your cake tender and moist. The batter should be smooth with no dry spots, ready to embrace those juicy cherries!
Step 7: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold in 400g of halved, pitted cherries using a spatula. Be careful not to crush the cherries while incorporating them into the batter. This step is crucial as these beautiful cherries will not only add flavor, but also lovely pops of color to your German Cherry Cake.
Step 8: Pour and Spread the Batter
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The batter should fill the pan nicely and create a smooth layer, ensuring that each slice of your German Cherry Cake has that delightful cherry flavor throughout.
Step 9: Add the Streusel Topping
Retrieve the streusel topping from the refrigerator and evenly sprinkle it over the cake batter. This will create a crunchy, textural contrast atop the soft and moist cake. The streusel will bake beautifully, adding both flavor and a delightful finish to your delicious bake.
Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your German Cherry Cake is ready! The top should be golden brown and fragrant, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Step 11: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Letting the cake cool will help it set properly, making it easier to slice into those beautiful pieces.
Step 12: Optional Glaze
For a delightful finish, whisk together 120g of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cherry juice until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled German Cherry Cake, allowing it to set before slicing. This optional glaze adds a touch of sweetness, elevating your dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful German Cherry Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the streusel topping and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, ensuring it remains fresh and crumbly. Additionally, you can make the cake batter 24 hours in advance; just omit the cherries until you’re ready to bake. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its quality and avoid drying out. When you're ready to bake, gently fold in the cherries, pour the batter into your prepared pan, add the streusel topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade dessert with minimal last-minute effort—perfect for any occasion!
Expert Tips for German Cherry Cake
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Use Fresh Cherries: If possible, opt for fresh, pitted cherries for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them first and drain excess moisture to avoid a soggy cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense German Cherry Cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
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Chill the Streusel: Keeping the streusel topping chilled helps it maintain its crumbly texture while baking, ensuring a delightful crunch on top of your cake.
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Check Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness; a few moist crumbs should cling to it, ensuring the cake is perfectly baked without being dry.
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Add a Touch of Lemon: A splash of lemon juice or zest in the batter can enhance the cherry flavor, adding brightness to your German Cherry Cake.
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Serve Warm or Room Temp: This cake is delicious both warm and at room temperature. Serve it as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
How to Store and Freeze German Cherry Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its sweetness and moisture.
Fridge: If you prefer, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This will help keep the flavors fresh, though it may slightly dry.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that freshly baked flavor and goodness.
What to Serve with German Cherry Cake?
The pleasure of enjoying a slice of German Cherry Cake is best complemented by a few thoughtfully chosen sides or drinks.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that enhances the cake’s rich flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream provides a melty contrast to the warm, fruity cake, making each bite heavenly.
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Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee or a shot of espresso balances the sweetness, making it an ideal companion for afternoon treats.
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Fresh Berries: A side of mixed fresh berries adds color and a refreshing tang, providing a delightful pop of flavor alongside your cake.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over the cake elevates the dessert, giving it an indulgent, decadent twist.
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Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the streusel, creating a cozy pairing for your cake.
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Custard Sauce: A drizzle of smooth custard adds a creamy richness, making the cherry flavors shine even brighter.
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Lemonade: For a refreshing contrast, serve a glass of chilled lemonade—the citrusy acidity complements the sweetness of the cake.
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Hazelnut Liqueur: A shot of hazelnut liqueur, served either neat or over ice, adds a nutty warmth that pairs splendidly with this dessert.
German Cherry Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free delight.
Transform this cake without losing its charming flavor; your loved ones will never know the difference! -
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk and replace butter with margarine.
This keeps the cake moist while catering to dairy-free diets. A tender cake is just a few simple swaps away! -
Fruit Mix: Try using mixed berries or peaches in addition to cherries for a fruity twist.
Combining flavors can elevate the cake, creating a delightful surprise with each bite. -
Nutty Add-In: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for a crunchy texture.
This small change can introduce a lovely nutty flavor, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cherries. -
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cake instead of a glaze.
This brings a luxurious richness that chocolate lovers will adore, making the dessert even more special. -
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a warm spice note.
These spices complement the cherries beautifully, adding another layer of flavor to your cake. -
Sweet Heat: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for a surprising kick.
The heat beautifully offsets the sweetness of the cherries, making your cake truly unforgettable. -
Caramel Drizzle: Top with homemade or store-bought caramel for a rich finish.
This extra layer of sumptuous flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds and thirds!
German Cherry Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cherries for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for firm, plump cherries that have a vibrant color. If you're using fresh cherries, avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. If opting for frozen, make sure they are pitted and have been thawed and drained before adding them to your batter to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your German Cherry Cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember, refrigeration might make it a bit drier, so enjoy it quickly or freeze it if needed!
Can I freeze German Cherry Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place the slices in an airtight freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight. For that freshly-baked taste, you can warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Why is my cake sinking in the middle?
Very often, a sinking cake results from overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early—so avoid that temptation until the baking time is nearly up! Ensure that all ingredients are measured accurately and allow the cake to cool properly in the pan to help maintain its structure.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Of course! To make a gluten-free version of the German Cherry Cake, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This should give you similar texture and flavor while making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake 1-2 days in advance. If you've topped it with glaze, feel free to keep it covered at room temperature. If you prefer to serve it later without the glaze, wait until just before serving to drizzle it over the slices for optimal presentation.
Irresistibly Moist German Cherry Cake for Your Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until crumbly and refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and dust with flour.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the halved, pitted cherries gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping over the batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to wire rack.
- For the optional glaze, whisk powdered sugar with milk or cherry juice and drizzle over the cooled cake.
