There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate chips and sweet, tangy cherries in a cake. This chip and cherry cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a homemade treat, this cake is a fantastic choice.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Add a drizzle of chocolate glaze, swap cherries for other fruits, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—this cake is as adaptable as it is delicious. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chip and Cherry Cake
- Perfect Flavor Balance: The sweetness of the chocolate chips pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cherries.
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the buttery batter and juicy cherries, every bite is soft and satisfying.
- Easy to Customize: Use fresh or frozen cherries, or even substitute other fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
- Great for Any Occasion: This cake works equally well as a casual dessert or a show-stopping centerpiece.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | PT20M |
| Cooking Time | PT40M |
| Total Time | PT1H |
| Type | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Recipe Yield | 12 servings |
| Calories | Approximately 280 per serving |
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Yogurt: Mix in the yogurt or sour cream until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the pitted cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
This chip and cherry cake recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, easy-to-make dessert. Its moist texture, balanced flavors, and customizable nature make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake is sure to impress.
We’d love to hear how your cake turns out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. Don’t forget to check out our other dessert recipes for more inspiration. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries for this chip and cherry cake?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before folding them into the batter to avoid excess moisture.
2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
3. Can I substitute the chocolate chips with something else?
Absolutely! White chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or even chopped nuts would be delicious alternatives.
4. How should I store this cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake stays moist and flavorful for several days. You can bake it a day in advance and store it properly until ready to serve.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a simple, delightful chip and cherry cake recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its irresistible combination of flavors and easy preparation, this cake is bound to become a favorite in your household. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us—we can’t wait to see your creations!