Festive Spiced Cherry Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that instantly elevates any celebration, look no further than this Festive Spiced Cherry Cake. It brings together the warm embrace of aromatic spices, the rich creaminess of tangy frosting, and the bright burst of fresh cherries in every bite. This cake not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning with its layered frosting and decorative touches, making it a true showstopper for holidays or special gatherings. Once you try this Festive Spiced Cherry Cake, it will quickly become your go-to for spreading joy and indulgence around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this splendid cake. Each component is selected not just for flavor but for how it contributes to the perfect texture, warmth, and festive vibe of the cake.

• All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): Provides the sturdy base that keeps the cake tender and fluffy.
• Baking powder (2 ½ tsp) and baking soda (½ tsp): Essential leavening agents to give the cake a lovely rise.
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances all the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp), nutmeg (½ tsp), cloves (½ tsp), and allspice (½ tsp): The magical blend that infuses the cake with warmth and festive charm.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup softened): Adds richness and moisture for a perfectly tender crumb.
• Sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the cake just right while helping with texture.
• Large eggs (4): The binding agents that bring structure and lift.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances the flavor depth and aroma.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds tanginess and keeps the cake irresistibly moist.
• Cream cheese (2 cups softened): For that luxuriously smooth and tangy frosting.
• Unsalted butter for frosting (1 cup softened): Creates a rich and creamy frosting base.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the frosting to fluffy perfection.
• Fresh cherries with stems: The jewel-like decorations that bring freshness and color.
• Crushed candied pecans or walnuts: Adds crunch and a sweet contrast to the creamy layers.
• Cinnamon sticks & star anise (optional): Elegant garnishes that elevate the festive presentation.

How to Make Festive Spiced Cherry Cake

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your pans—grease and line three 8-inch round pans for easy cake release. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the lovely mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. This dry mixture packs all the festive spice flavors that will soon fill your kitchen.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is key to achieving a tender cake. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of warm aroma.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the flour-spice mixture and buttermilk into the butter-sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mixing gently but thoroughly at this stage ensures your Festive Spiced Cherry Cake has a tender, moist crumb with just the right amount of spice spread evenly throughout.

Step 4: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly among your three prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks before moving on to frosting.

Step 5: Create the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, whip together the cream cheese and softened butter until perfectly smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, blending until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract. This luscious frosting is what will make your Festive Spiced Cherry Cake irresistibly creamy and tangy.

Step 6: Assemble and Decorate

Place the first cake layer on your serving stand and spread a generous layer of frosting evenly. Repeat with the second and third layers, stacking carefully. Frost the entire outside of the cake, using a spatula or a comb tool to create smooth ridges for that professional look. Press crushed candied pecans or walnuts gently around the sides between layers for crunch and festive flair. Finally, pipe decorative frosting swirls on top and adorn with fresh cherries, cinnamon sticks, and star anise for that charming holiday touch.

How to Serve Festive Spiced Cherry Cake

Garnishes

A handful of fresh cherries placed on top not only adds pops of vibrant red but also brings a fresh, sweet contrast to the spiced cake and creamy frosting. Sprinkle with crushed candied nuts for texture and finish with aromatic cinnamon sticks and star anise, which make the presentation feel like a cozy winter wonderland.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with subtle sides like lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. To balance the richness, a simple mixed berry compote or a fresh fruit salad adds a bright and refreshing element to your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a magical centerpiece, serve the cake on a rustic wooden stand surrounded by sprigs of holly or pine needles. You can also layer slices on elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving, making each bite extra festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After indulging in a slice (or two), wrap the remaining cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Kept in the refrigerator, your Festive Spiced Cherry Cake will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors even later.

Freezing

To save it for longer, the unfrosted cake layers freeze beautifully. Wrap each layer well in cling film and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen layers can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and decorating as usual.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake at room temperature, take it out of the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid heating the frosted cake in the microwave, as the frosting can melt; however, individual slices without frosting can be gently warmed for a cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones for decorating?

While fresh cherries offer the best texture and appearance, you can use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid adding extra moisture to the cake’s surface.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Make sure it already contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture may vary slightly, but the delicious flavors will shine through.

Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can bake the layers a day or two in advance, wrap them tightly, and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble. This helps save time on the day you plan to serve the cake.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

No worries! You can make a simple substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly before using it in your batter.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?

While homemade cream cheese frosting is a perfect match for the Festive Spiced Cherry Cake, you can use store-bought cream cheese frosting if short on time. Choose a quality brand for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Festive Spiced Cherry Cake is truly a celebration in every slice, blending cozy spices, creamy frosting, and bright cherry accents into a dessert that feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try it and share its magic with your loved ones — it’s guaranteed to become a centerpiece of your festive occasions for years to come.

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