Maraschino Party Cake
A moist, cherry-infused cake with vibrant maraschino cherry flavor, perfect for parties and celebrations, appealing to those who love sweet, fruity desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together cake flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add shortening, maraschino cherry juice, cherries, and milk to the dry ingredients.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 to 2/3 cup of unbeaten egg whites (from 4 large eggs) and beat for another 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into two 9-inch cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, ensure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding them in. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. To enhance the cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract or vanilla extract. If you want a colorful presentation, top the cake with whipped cream and additional maraschino cherries.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant cake is perfect for celebrations and pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a glass of Sheran'S Hot Chocolate Mix. You can also enjoy it with fresh fruit or a fruit compote to balance the sweetness. Consider serving it at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maraschino Party Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigerate it to maintain freshness. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating the entire cake if possible, as it can dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maraschino Party Cake contains roughly 959 calories, with 12g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (63% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Assemble and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it to keep it fresh. This makes it easier to prepare for events without last-minute stress.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While frozen cherries can be used, they will alter the texture and flavor profile of the cake. Maraschino cherries provide a sweet and distinctive taste that complements the cake. If using frozen cherries, chop them finely and ensure to drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.
What can I do if the cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, consider serving it with a drizzle of cherry syrup or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cherry juice to add moisture. Alternatively, you can layer it with whipped cream or fruit filling to create a more decadent dessert. Always check baking times, as overbaking can lead to dryness.
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).