Introduction
Welcome to a slice of dessert heaven with our delightful Cherry Blossom Dream Cake! This enchanting cake combines the sweet, tart flavor of cherry pie filling with a rich, buttery cake that’s as light as a spring breeze. Decorated with delicate edible cherry blossom petals, this cake is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat. Perfect for birthdays, spring celebrations, or simply an afternoon indulgence, its layers of fluffy goodness are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- ½ cup whipped cream
- Edible cherry blossom petals for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, a process that should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing the sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the cherry pie filling, allowing the vibrant red cherries to create swirls throughout your batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread whipped cream between the layers and generously on top of the cake.
- Finish by adorning your beautiful creation with edible cherry blossom petals before serving. Your guests won’t be able to resist this stunning centerpiece!
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the cherries. If cherry blossom petals are unavailable, fresh or candied cherries make a lovely alternative. This cake can be made a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add the whipped cream and decorations just before serving to keep them fresh.
Cooking Techniques
Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature to ensure it cream properly with the sugar, creating a light and airy cake. Folding in the cherry pie filling gently will help maintain the cake’s texture while still distributing the flavor. Also, always check your cakes a few minutes before the timer goes off; every oven varies, and you want them baked to a perfect golden brown without being overdone.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes! If you prefer fresh cherries, pit and slice them, then toss them in a little sugar to create a syrupy texture before folding them into the batter.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This Cherry Blossom Dream Cake is a lovely way to celebrate life’s moments, big or small. With its fluffy layers and delightful cherry flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite at your gatherings. Bake this cake to create sweet memories that you and your loved ones will cherish. Enjoy every slice of your beautiful creation!