There’s nothing quite like the sweet burst of flavor that a Maraschino Cherry can bring to a dessert. I found myself in a cherry-induced daydream the other afternoon, thinking about how perfect a light, fluffy buttercream frosting could be, especially when it’s adorned with that vibrant pop of red. Whether you’re decorating a classic birthday cake or giving a twist to brownies, this Easy Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting transforms every bite into a celebration.
Imagine walking into a room filled with the sweet, inviting aroma of butter and cherries mingling together. It’s a nostalgic feeling that brings back memories of childhood treats, but with a modern twist that will impress friends and family alike. Best of all, this delightful frosting is not only simple to whip up, but it also opens the door to endless variation possibilities depending on your taste—whether you want it sweeter, thicker, or even a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. So grab your mixer and a few ingredients, let’s create something magical together!
Why Choose Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting?
Irresistible flavor: This buttercream frosting bursts with the vibrant taste of maraschino cherries, elevating any dessert.
Effortless preparation: Just a few simple steps make this frosting easy to whip up, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Versatile use: Whether topping cakes, cupcakes, or brownies, it adds a delightful twist to your favorite treats.
Customizable sweetness: Adjust the frosting’s sweetness with a pinch of salt or more powdered sugar as needed for your palate.
Make-ahead friendly: Store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer enjoyment, making it a great time-saver!
Try pairing it with a batch of my creamy raspberry frosting for a stunning dessert presentation!
Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting Ingredients
• The perfect base for a delicious frosting awaits!
For the Frosting
• Butter – Use “slightly softened” sweet cream salted butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Maraschino Cherry Juice – This adds a delightful cherry flavor, bringing the frosting to life.
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetening and thickening the frosting; adjust based on your taste.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the frosting while absorbing excess moisture from the cherry juice.
• Maraschino Cherries (diced) – Adds both flavor and visual appeal; remember to drain and dry them well to avoid excess liquid.
For the best experience, check the recipe card below for full measurements!
How to Make Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting
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Combine the "slightly softened" butter and maraschino cherry juice in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until fully mixed, allowing the cherry flavor to meld into the butter, for about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the powdered sugar gradually. Start mixing on a low setting to prevent a sugary cloud, and cover the mixer with a towel. Once incorporated, increase to medium speed until it’s fluffy, about 30-45 seconds.
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Incorporate cornstarch into the mixture to thicken up your frosting, gently mixing until well combined. This will ensure the perfect consistency for spreading.
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Fold in the diced maraschino cherries. Use a spatula to delicately combine them, ensuring every bit of frosting is bursting with cherry goodness and visual charm.
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Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for an hour to help firm it up. This step is optional but highly recommended for a better texture when frosting your baked goods.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top for an extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting
Fridge: Store the frosted baked goods in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Remove them a few hours before serving to restore their lovely texture and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting in a tightly sealed container for up to 3-4 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating: If the frosting appears too firm after thawing, mix it with a hand mixer at medium speed for a few seconds to regain its creamy texture.
Airtight: Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, ensure airtight wrapping to prevent any air exposure and maintain freshness.
What to Serve with Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting?
Imagine indulging in a feast where each sweetness perfectly balances the vibrant flavors of your frosting, making every bite unforgettable.
- Classic Vanilla Cupcakes: Their moist, soft texture pairs wonderfully with the fluffy sweetness of the buttercream, creating a nostalgic treat everyone will adore.
- Chocolate Brownies: The rich, fudgy flavor of brownies contrasts beautifully with the bubbly cherry notes, adding a delightful twist to your dessert table.
- Lemon Drizzle Cake: The tartness enhances the sweetness of the frosting, brightening your palate and leaving a refreshed sensation after every bite.
- Red Velvet Cake: The nostalgic flavor profile plays off the cherry essence, bringing together a stunning visual and taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- Cherry-Almond Cookies: These delicate bites echo the cherry flavor while adding a nutty kick, creating a perfect harmony of flavors in each mouthful.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup helps cut through the sweetness of the frosting, offering a comforting balance to your dessert spread.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Top your cherry buttercream frosting with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent and playful dessert experience that excites the senses.
- Fruit Tarts: The fresh fruit brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the frosting, making your dessert feel light and refreshing.
- Cream Cheese Brownies: The tangy flavor of cream cheese complements the cherry frosting splendidly, making for a divine dessert pair that’s truly unforgettable.
Expert Tips for Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting
• Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is "slightly softened" for the best mixing; too cold won’t blend well, and too melted will make it runny.
• Adjusting Consistency: If your frosting is too thin, add ½ cup more powdered sugar or 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for a thicker, creamier Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting.
• Balancing Sweetness: A pinch of salt can help tone down excessive sweetness; remember, a little goes a long way and enhances the overall flavor.
• Chilling Matters: Refrigerate the frosting for at least an hour before use. This step improves texture and makes it easier to spread on your baked goods.
• Smart Storage: Keep frosted treats in the refrigerator for freshness, removing them a few hours before serving to bring back their delightful taste.
Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this frosting uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
- Salted Bliss: Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness, enhancing the cherry flavor while creating a more complex profile.
- Vanilla Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, creamy depth that perfectly complements the cherry essence.
- Chocolate Delight: Blend in cocoa powder (up to ¼ cup) for a rich chocolate-cherry combination that will surely tantalize your taste buds.
- Coconut Cream: Replace some butter with coconut oil for a tropical flair, giving your frosting a light coconut undertone that pairs beautifully with cherry.
- Fruit Medley: Incorporate finely chopped strawberries or raspberries alongside the cherries for a vibrant fruit burst in every bite. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delicious fruity complexity.
- Spicy Kick: Blend in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a subtle warmth that transforms the frosting into a spiced cherry experience during the holiday season.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth frosting.
- Zesty Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest for a refreshing tartness that brightens the frosting and cuts the sweetness superbly.
Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting maraschino cherries for the frosting?
Absolutely! When choosing maraschino cherries, look for bright red cherries without dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness. Opt for quality brands as they often have a more robust flavor that will shine through in your frosting.
How long can I store Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting in the fridge?
You can store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just remember to let it sit out for about 30-60 minutes before using it again to bring back its creamy texture!
Can I freeze Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting?
Yes, you can! For freezing, scoop the frosting into a tightly sealed container or freezer bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently mix it with a hand mixer until it's creamy again.
What should I do if my frosting consistency is too thin?
No worries! If you find your frosting too thin, I recommend adding about ½ cup more powdered sugar. You can also mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency. Just remember to go slow and mix until you reach your desired texture.
Is there a way to reduce the sweetness of the buttercream?
Certainly! If the frosting is a bit too sweet for your taste, adding a small pinch of salt can help balance things out beautifully. This tiny addition can make a big difference in flavor—it's all about finding that perfect balance!
Are there any dietary concerns with Maraschino cherries for pets or allergies?
Yes, definitely! Some maraschino cherries may contain ingredients like artificial colors and sweeteners that could be harmful to pets, especially dogs. It's best to keep any cherry-laden frosting away from them. Additionally, always check for any allergies related to cherries or synthetic additives before serving to others.
Irresistibly Delicious Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the "slightly softened" butter and maraschino cherry juice in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until fully mixed, allowing the cherry flavor to meld into the butter, for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually. Start mixing on a low setting to prevent a sugary cloud, and cover the mixer with a towel. Once incorporated, increase to medium speed until it’s fluffy, about 30-45 seconds.
- Incorporate cornstarch into the mixture to thicken up your frosting, gently mixing until well combined. This will ensure the perfect consistency for spreading.
- Fold in the diced maraschino cherries. Use a spatula to delicately combine them, ensuring every bit of frosting is bursting with cherry goodness and visual charm.
- Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for an hour to help firm it up. This step is optional but highly recommended for a better texture when frosting your baked goods.
Nutrition
Notes
- Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is "slightly softened" for the best mixing; too cold won’t blend well, and too melted will make it runny.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your frosting is too thin, add ½ cup more powdered sugar or 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for a thicker, creamier Maraschino Cherry Buttercream Frosting.
- Balancing Sweetness: A pinch of salt can help tone down excessive sweetness; remember, a little goes a long way and enhances the overall flavor.
- Chilling Matters: Refrigerate the frosting for at least an hour before use. This step improves texture and makes it easier to spread on your baked goods.
- Smart Storage: Keep frosted treats in the refrigerator for freshness, removing them a few hours before serving to bring back their delightful taste.
