Maraschino Nut Cake
A moist, flavorful nut cake infused with maraschino cherry juice and chopped cherries, perfect for celebrations or as a delightful treat for nut and cherry lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt three times.
- Add shortening, maraschino cherry juice, chopped cherries, and milk to the dry ingredients.
- Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts.
- Coat the prepared pan with shortening and flour.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure you sift the dry ingredients thoroughly. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly. You can also use almond extract in place of maraschino juice for a different twist. If you prefer added moisture, consider incorporating a few tablespoons of yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Maraschino Nut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Aunt Abby's Raisin Filled Cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maraschino Nut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through, enhancing its flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maraschino Nut Cake contains roughly 493 calories, with 9g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2334mg per serving (101% 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 maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but make sure to pit and chop them. You may need to adjust the sugar slightly since fresh cherries are less sweet than maraschino cherries. Additionally, you might want to increase the maraschino juice for moisture.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper structure. The cake's texture might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter. You can also mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Topping the cake with a glaze made from powdered sugar and maraschino cherry juice can add an extra layer of sweetness.
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).