There’s something utterly delightful about the vibrant splash of maraschino cherries that transforms an ordinary loaf cake into a showstopper. Picture this: It’s a warm afternoon and you’ve just poured a cup of your favorite coffee. As the sun streams through your kitchen window, the aroma of sweet vanilla mixed with cherries fills the air. This Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s the sweet moment of indulgence that brings back memories of ice cream shop treats.
Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or craving a slice of something special at home, this loaf cake stands out with its lush flavors and ease of preparation. You don’t have to be a seasoned chef to create this beauty; with just 15 minutes of prep and a bit of patience while it bakes, you’ll have a warm, juicy cake that’s sure to win hearts. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s bring a slice of joy to your table!
Why is Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: This loaf cake beautifully combines the nostalgic flavors of cherry and almond, making every bite irresistible.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a treat that seems like a true gourmet masterpiece.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy afternoon at home, this cake is sure to impress.
Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy it plain, or elevate it with a glaze; the choice is yours!
Total Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cherries, and the vibrant colors will have your guests reaching for seconds.
Dive into more creative ideas to elevate this cake by checking out our other delightful cake recipes!
Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake Ingredients
- 3/4 C sugar – brings sweetness and balances flavors
- 1/2 C whole milk – adds moisture and richness
- 1/2 C oil – ensures a tender crumb
- 1 piece egg – binds ingredients together
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
- 1 tsp almond extract – adds a delightful nutty aroma
- 2 C flour – builds the cake structure
- 2 tsp baking powder – provides leavening for a light texture
- 1/4 tsp salt – amplifies sweet flavors
- 3 C maraschino cherries (cut in half) – the star ingredient for that delightful taste
- 1 C powdered sugar – for a sweet, beautiful glaze
- 1 tsp almond extract – enhances the glaze flavor
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – adds depth to the glaze
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted sweet cream butter – adds richness to the glaze
- 1/3 C maraschino cherry juice – gives the glaze a cherry kick
This Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake will surely be a showstopper at your next gathering!
How to Make Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your cake bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust.
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Mix together sugar, milk, oil, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a mixing bowl until well combined. You should achieve a smooth, creamy texture that’s both inviting and delicious!
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Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. This step adds air to your dry ingredients, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a slightly lumpy batter for a tender crumb.
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Fold in the maraschino cherries gently. You’ll want to see those vibrant red specks throughout the batter, adding both color and sweetness!
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Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. This will promote uniform baking and make for easy removal once it’s done.
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Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with the most delightful scents by this point!
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Cool the cake for a few minutes before glazing. Mix powdered sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, melted butter, and cherry juice for a shiny finish that complements the cake beautifully.
Optional: Drizzle extra cherry juice over the top for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Garcia Loaf Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix your wet and dry ingredients together, fold in the cherries, and store the mixture tightly covered in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your greased loaf pan and pop it in the oven as instructed. For an even quicker option, you can bake the cake and then glaze it up to 3 days ahead; just store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature to keep it moist. This cake will be just as delicious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
What to Serve with Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this delightful loaf cake opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that will make your meal truly special.
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Fresh Berries: These tart and juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich flavors of the cake. Try a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for color and vibrancy.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous portion on the side to create a classic dessert duo. The creamy texture complements the cake’s soft crumb beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy quality to balance the cake’s richness. It’s an effortless way to elevate your presentation.
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Coffee or Espresso: The warm, bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup perfectly match the cake’s sweet notes, creating a comforting moment that everyone will cherish.
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Almond Biscotti: Pair your cake with these crunchy delights for a satisfying texture contrast. The nutty flavors echo the almond extracts in the cake, enhancing the experience.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over each slice adds an alluring visual appeal and introduces a deeper flavor contrast that many will love.
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Lemonade: This zesty beverage cuts through the sweetness of the cake, offering a refreshing balance to your dessert. It’s a crowd-pleasing option for warm gatherings.
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Cherry Tart: Bringing in another cherry element can enhance flavors and create a theme. The tartness perfectly complements the sweetness of the loaf.
These pairings will make every bite of your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake an extraordinary experience!
Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake Variations
Get creative with your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake and explore delightful twists to make it even more special!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and a vegan egg replacement for a delicious, plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
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Chocolate Cherry Delight: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent chocolate-cherry fusion. Chocolate lovers will rejoice!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast. The nuts add a beautiful crunch to each slice.
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Spiced Upgrade: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy twist. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings!
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Zesty Citrus: Infuse the batter with the zest of one lemon or orange for a refreshing pop of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
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Gourmet Glaze: Swap out the vanilla for butter extract in your glaze for a richer, more indulgent finish that enhances every bite.
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Extra Cherry Boost: Fold in an additional cup of diced fresh cherries or freeze-dried cherries to intensify that cherry flavor. It will be a cherry lover’s dream!
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Heat it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the batter for a surprising kick that contrasts with the sweetness. Perfect for adventurous eaters!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake
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Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moistness.
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Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, the cake can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days. Wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices of Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring it’s well-protected from freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy it warm, simply microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds. The flavors will revive, bringing a smile to your face!
Expert Tips for Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake
- Use Fresh Cherries: If possible, consider using fresh cherries for an even more vibrant flavor. Maraschino cherries are convenient but fresh will elevate your cake.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, losing that delightful lightness.
- Check Doneness: Since ovens can vary, check your cake a few minutes early. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs for perfection.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting off, ensuring a beautiful finish that impresses everyone.
- Store Properly: Enjoy your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful for days.
Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best maraschino cherries for the Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake?
Absolutely! Look for maraschino cherries that are bright red and free from any dark spots or blemishes. It’s best to choose cherries packed in juice rather than syrup, as this keeps them juicy and enhances the cake’s flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake?
For optimal freshness, store your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, just be sure to wrap it well to avoid it drying out.
Can I freeze Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your loaf cake, slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, wrap them again in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for 15-20 seconds to warm a slice.
Why did my Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake turn out dense? What can I do?
The most common reason for a dense cake is overmixing the batter. When combining your wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. If you find that your cake is still too dense, make sure your baking powder is fresh and active, as expired leavening agents can lead to disappointing results.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! If almond extract is a concern due to allergies, you can simply omit it or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract. The flavor will still be delicious without the nuts, making it suitable for everyone!
What can I serve with my Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake?
This delightful cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries for a fruity contrast! The more the merrier, so feel free to get creative!
Indulge in Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake That Will Wow Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix together sugar, milk, oil, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a mixing bowl until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the maraschino cherries gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake for a few minutes before glazing.
- Mix powdered sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, melted butter, and cherry juice for a shiny finish.
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