Fresh Cherry Loaf Cake

Introduction

If you’re searching for a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the tartness of fresh cherries with the sweetness of a moist loaf cake, the Fresh Cherry Loaf Cake recipe is sure to impress. This homemade treat stands out as an exquisite option for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. The natural flavors of cherries make this recipe a summer favorite, while its soft and fluffy texture ensures every slice is a crowd-pleaser.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Cherries:

1 cup of fresh cherries (pitted and halved)

All-purpose Flour:

2 cups of all-purpose flour

Sugar:

1 cup of granulated sugar

Baking Powder:

1 teaspoon of baking powder

Salt:

A pinch of salt

Milk:

½ cup of milk

Butter:

½ cup of melted butter (unsalted)

Eggs:

2 large eggs

Vanilla Extract:

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Prep Time

This recipe requires a minimal amount of preparation, ensuring that even beginners in baking can achieve amazing results. Pitting the cherries will be your first step. If you have a cherry pitter, you’ll save time and effort, but a knife works well too. Carefully slice the cherries in half to avoid excess juice ruining the batter. Next, gather and measure all the ingredients so you can quickly mix them when needed.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Once the batter is ready and combined with the cherries, the loaf cake will need to bake for around 50-60 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). The total time, including preparation and baking, clocks in at approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Once cooled and sliced, this recipe yields one loaf that can generously serve 8-10 slices, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family over coffee or tea.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan to ensure your cherry loaf cake comes out easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries

Wash and pit the fresh cherries. Chop them roughly into small pieces and set them aside. Reserve a few whole cherries for garnishing if desired.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and softened butter. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until light and fluffy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix it in thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly blended.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Alternate between adding the dry mix and milk to prevent the batter from becoming too dense. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing leads to a denser finished cake.

Step 7: Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold the chopped cherries into the batter using a spatula, taking care not to crush them completely.

Step 8: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the batter and smooth the surface.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Place the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 10: Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Note 1: Substituting Fresh Cherries

If fresh cherries are unavailable, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them completely before using.

Note 2: Preventing Cherries from Sinking

Lightly toss the chopped cherries in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter. This can help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Note 3: Storing the Cake

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week to preserve freshness.

Note 4: Freezing the Cake

To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Note 5: Adding Extra Flavor

If desired, add a touch of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.

Note 6: Serving Suggestions

Serve the loaf cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
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Cook Techniques

Preparing Fresh Cherries

Remove the stems and pits from the fresh cherries before using them in your loaf cake. You can use a cherry pitter or simply a knife to carefully remove the pits.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This ensures that the batter comes together evenly without over-mixing.

Folding Ingredients

When adding cherries to the batter, gently fold them in to avoid breaking them and to distribute them evenly across the mixture.

Testing for Doneness

Use a toothpick to check when the loaf cake is fully baked. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with dry crumbs, the cake is ready.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain them to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter.

How should I store the cherry loaf cake?

You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I substitute the cherries with another fruit?

Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries. Be sure to adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit.

What should I do if the top of my cake is browning too quickly?

If the top is browning too quickly before the middle is cooked, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Can I use canned cherries for this recipe?

Canned cherries are also an option, but make sure to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
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Conclusion

This Fresh Cherry Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that pairs the juicy sweetness of fresh cherries with a moist and tender cake texture. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this loaf is versatile and easy to make. Impress your family and guests with this homemade delight, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness in every bite!

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