Brandied Cherry Coffeecake
A rich, cherry-brandy coffee cake featuring creamy cheese, tart cherry filling, and a nutty topping, perfect for brunch or dessert with a hint of sophistication.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, sugar, and margarine in a bowl.
- Beat until well blended.
- Add eggs and vanilla; blend well.
- Combine dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda).
- Add dry ingredients alternately with milk to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 19 x 9-inch pan.
- Mix cherry brandy with cherry pie filling and spoon over the batter.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts (optional).
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a high-quality cherry brandy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Ensure that the margarine is softened for easy blending. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the cake's warmth. For a nut-free option, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brandied cherry coffeecake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an elevated dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream. This could also complement a brunch spread featuring dishes like Easy Cream Cheese Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coffeecake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brandied Cherry Coffeecake contains roughly 530 calories, with 6g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1218mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them. Cook pitted cherries with sugar and a bit of lemon juice until they release their juices and thicken. This will create a fresh topping for your coffeecake.
What can I substitute for margarine?
Butter is an excellent substitute for margarine and will add a rich flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to maintain the same texture.
Can I make this coffeecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and pour it into the pan, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).