Unleash your baking prowess with this chip and cherry cake that combines the tartness of cherries with the crunch of chocolate chips in a moist, fluffy cake. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of tart cherries and sweet chocolate chips creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Using buttermilk ensures the cake is moist and tender.
- The addition of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor, giving the cake a sophisticated twist.
- Simple ingredients come together quickly, making it an easy bake for any skill level.
- The crunchy texture of the chips contrasts beautifully with the soft cake, adding an exciting element to every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can help avoid lumps in your batter.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake fluffy.
Fold in Cherries and Chips
Gently fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips into the batter until evenly distributed. Tip: Tossing the cherries in a little flour before adding them can prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
Bake to Perfection
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. The cake should be golden and spring back when lightly touched.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Tip: For an extra touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their chip and cherry cake, consider these advanced tips. First, macerating the cherries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor. Second, using a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips can add depth to the cake’s taste. Lastly, letting the cake rest overnight allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a different fruit twist.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier texture.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy note.
- Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- For a decadent version, layer the cake with cherry jam and chocolate ganache.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You might also want to chop them slightly smaller since frozen cherries can be softer.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking and consider adding a bit of xanthan gum if the blend doesn’t include it, to help with texture.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or soy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar to mimic the tanginess of buttermilk. Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute for the melted butter.
Summary
This chip and cherry cake is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of chocolate chips in a moist, fluffy cake. Easy to make and versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion.
