If you're searching for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee, look no further! My Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is a sweet and fruity sensation that combines the rich flavors of cherries and almonds in every bite. In this blog post, I'll guide you through simple ingredients and easy steps to create this irresistible cake. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this tasty masterpiece!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet cherries paired with almond extract create a delightful flavor that’s perfect for coffee breaks.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, a coffee date, or just a treat for yourself, this coffee cake fits the bill.
- Beautiful Presentation: With a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh cherries on top, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
To make the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
These ingredients create a moist cake with a delightful cherry and almond flavor. Each item plays a key role in the texture and taste. The flour provides structure, while the butter adds richness. Sour cream keeps the cake tender.
Using fresh or frozen cherries gives you flexibility. Slivered almonds add a nice crunch on top. The almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. This helps the butter cream well, making the cake light and airy. Gather everything, and you are ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking throughout.
2. Greasing the baking pan: Grab a 9x13 inch baking pan. Use butter or cooking spray to coat it well. This helps the cake release easily later.
Mixing Instructions
1. Combining dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk these dry items together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Set this aside for later use.
2. Creaming butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter with:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Beat these together until they're light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Completing the Batter
1. Adding eggs and extracts: Add 4 large eggs one by one. Mix well after each addition. Then, pour in:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Mix until everything is combined.
2. Folding in cherries and almonds: Lower the mixer speed. Alternate adding the dry mixture and:
- 1 cup sour cream
Start and end with the dry mix. Mix just until combined. Then fold in:
- 1 1/2 cups cherries, halved
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
Make sure they spread evenly in the batter.
Baking the Cake
1. Pouring batter into the pan: Carefully pour the batter into your greased pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
2. Baking time and tests for doneness: Bake for 35-40 minutes. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Enjoy the delightful aroma as it bakes!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
- Ensuring proper measurements: Use a dry measuring cup for flour. Spoon the flour into the cup and level it off. This method helps avoid using too much flour, which can make the cake dry.
- Avoiding overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, which is not what we want. A few lumps are okay. Just fold in the cherries and almonds carefully.
Serving Suggestions
- Presentation tips: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a sweet look. You can add fresh cherries on top for extra color and charm. This simple touch makes your cake look fancy.
- Pairing with coffee or tea: This cake tastes great with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The flavors of almond and cherry work well with both drinks. Serve it during brunch or as a snack.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Addressing undercooked or overcooked cake: If your cake is undercooked, bake it longer. Check every few minutes after the initial bake time. For an overcooked cake, keep an eye on the bake time next time.
- Fixing flavor imbalances: If the cake tastes bland, add a bit more almond or vanilla extract next time. A pinch of salt can also enhance the flavors. Adjust according to your taste.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for better incorporation and a lighter cake texture.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries: If using frozen cherries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cake's texture.
- Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change up the flavors in your cherry almond coffee cake. Try using other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. These fruits add their own taste and color. Mix and match to find your favorite.
You can also use different extracts. If you want a pure vanilla flavor, just use vanilla extract. This simple swap can give your cake a new twist. It’s fun to experiment with flavors and find what you love best.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, you can use gluten-free flour. Make sure to check the brand for the right ratio. This way, you can enjoy this cake without worry.
For vegan substitutions, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. You can also use plant-based butter. These swaps keep the cake moist and tasty. You won't miss the eggs or dairy at all.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover cherry almond coffee cake at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about two days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is best. In the fridge, it can last up to a week. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great option if you have extra cake. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, cut it into individual slices for easy serving. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps the cake fresh for about three months. Be sure to label the bags with the date.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy your coffee cake again, you can reheat it easily. If it's frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For warm slices, you can use the microwave. Heat for about 15 seconds, checking to avoid overheating. You can also warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This way, it tastes fresh and soft, just like when you first baked it!
FAQs
How to make Cherry Almond Coffee Cake?
To make this yummy coffee cake, follow these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg.
5. Add vanilla and almond extracts. Stir until combined.
6. Slowly mix in the dry ingredients and sour cream. Start with the flour mix and end with it.
7. Gently fold in halved cherries and half of the slivered almonds.
8. Pour the batter into your greased pan. Spread it evenly.
9. Top with the rest of the slivered almonds.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
11. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. This will help keep the batter from getting too wet. You might add a bit more flour if the batter seems too runny. Frozen cherries work well and still give great taste.
How long will the cake last?
Cherry Almond Coffee Cake lasts about 3-4 days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you put it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
What can I pair with Cherry Almond Coffee Cake?
Coffee and tea are great choices to enjoy with this cake. The warm flavors of coffee blend well with the cherries and almonds. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This adds a nice touch to your dessert.
This blog post covers the ingredients, steps, tips, variations, and storage for Cherry Almond Coffee Cake. You learned how to make this treat and solve common baking issues. Remember, accurate measurements and gentle mixing lead to success. Feel free to explore flavor swaps, and don’t forget to enjoy your cake with coffee or tea. With these tips, you will bake a delicious cake that everyone loves. Happy baking!
