Moist and delicious, the Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion! This cake is easy to whip up and is sure to impress. With its vibrant cherry flavor and creamy almond buttercream frosting, it stands out as a delightful dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just treating yourself, this cake will satisfy your sweet tooth and bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Cherry Sheet Cake can be prepared in just 10 minutes with simple steps.
- Flavorful Delight: The combination of cherry and almond creates a unique taste that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, it’s ideal for parties, gatherings, or family get-togethers.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet snack. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea!
- Homemade Frosting: The almond buttercream adds a creamy layer that elevates this cake to the next level.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making this Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe, gather your tools. Using the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Electric mixer or whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
- Blender or food processor: These tools make pureeing cherries quick and easy, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy frosting that perfectly complements the cake.
Ingredients
Moist Cherry Sheet Cake is topped with a homemade almond buttercream frosting. It is easy and SO delicious!!
For the Cake
- 1 package white cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 oz cherry Jell-O
- 10-12 oz maraschino cherries (drained)
For the Frosting
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
How to Make Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherries
Begin by adding your maraschino cherries to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix well until there are no lumps. Add in the cherry Jell-O mix along with the pureed cherries. Stir until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting it.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
While your cake cools, prepare the almond buttercream frosting. In another mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk while mixing until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost & Enjoy
Once cooled, generously frost your Cherry Sheet Cake with the almond buttercream. Cut into squares and serve! Enjoy every bite of this delicious treat!
How to Serve Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
Serving your Cherry Sheet Cake is as delightful as making it. This moist cake, topped with almond buttercream frosting, can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.
Individual Slices
- Serve each slice on a decorative plate for a charming presentation.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair the cake with fresh cherries or berries to enhance its fruity flavor.
- A light fruit salad can complement the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Ice Cream Topping
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delicious contrast.
Drizzled Sauce
- Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent twist.
- This adds richness and visual appeal to your dessert.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoy slices of cherry sheet cake with a cup of coffee or tea.
- The flavors meld perfectly, making it great for afternoon gatherings.
Festive Platter
- Create a dessert platter with your Cherry Sheet Cake alongside assorted treats.
- This is perfect for parties and celebrations, offering variety to guests.
How to Perfect Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
To ensure your Cherry Sheet Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality maraschino cherries and fresh eggs to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just until blended to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done baking.
- Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your frosting before adding all the powdered sugar; adjust as needed for personal preference.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature, or refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
Cherry Sheet Cake pairs well with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavor. Here are some excellent options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the fruity notes in the cake beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping elevates each slice’s texture and taste.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each piece introduces a rich element that contrasts nicely with cherries.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee serves as an excellent accompaniment, cutting through the sweetness effectively.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkling granola offers crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs well with soft cake.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti add another layer of flavor while enhancing the almond notes in the frosting.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone for an unexpected but delightful pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe can be fun, but some common pitfalls might ruin your experience. Here are mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Jell-O: Not adding cherry Jell-O can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to mix it in well for that extra punch.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring the Cooling Time: Frosting a warm cake causes the frosting to melt. Always let your cake cool completely before frosting.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese will not blend smoothly. Let them sit at room temperature for a better consistency.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect the outcome of your cake. Use measuring cups for precise portions.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cherry Sheet Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices of the cake in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries in the Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and chop them before adding to your batter for a fresher taste.
How can I customize my Cherry Sheet Cake?
You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Experiment with different extracts like vanilla or coconut too!
What should I serve with my Cherry Sheet Cake?
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this cake. A scoop of ice cream adds even more indulgence!
How long does it take to make this Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe?
This dessert takes about 40 minutes total, including prep and baking time—perfect for a quick treat!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe is not only moist and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Try making it today and delight your family with this fruity dessert that’s sure to impress!
Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of our Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe, a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any gathering. Infused with vibrant cherry goodness and topped with creamy almond buttercream frosting, this cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for birthdays, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings. Each slice offers a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Whether serving at a festive occasion or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, this Cherry Sheet Cake will surely bring smiles to every table.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package white cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 oz cherry Jell-O
- 10–12 oz maraschino cherries (drained)
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Puree maraschino cherries in a blender or food processor and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water until smooth. Stir in cherry Jell-O and pureed cherries.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Once cooled, frost the cake generously and slice into squares before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use high-quality maraschino cherries for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for optimal results. Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist on flavor.
