Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

Moist and delicious, the Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe is perfect for any occasion. This delightful dessert features a fluffy cake infused with cherry flavor and is topped with creamy almond buttercream frosting. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or just want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cherry sheet cake in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cherries and almond in the frosting creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs perfectly with the cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From celebrations to casual gatherings, this cake fits right in, making it a versatile choice for every event.
• Feeds a Crowd: The recipe makes 16 generous servings, so there’s plenty to share with family and friends.
• Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of the cherries make this sheet cake as beautiful as it is tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make the process more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Blender or food processor
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: Essential for pureeing cherries smoothly, ensuring consistent flavor throughout your cake.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and cream cheese easy, resulting in a fluffy frosting without much effort.

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 ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Blend the Cherries

Begin by adding your maraschino cherries to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix until well blended. Next, add the cherry Jell-O mix and pureed cherries. Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread out for uniform baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Step 6: Cool Down

After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 7: Make Almond Buttercream Frosting

While your cake cools, prepare the frosting by creaming together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk; blend well until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Once cooled, generously frost your cherry sheet cake with the almond buttercream frosting. Slice into pieces and enjoy!

How to Serve Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

Serving your Cherry Sheet Cake is just as important as making it. This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its flavor and presentation.

Family Gatherings

• Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into generous squares and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
• Decorative Plating: Add fresh cherries or mint leaves on top of each slice for an appealing look.

Celebrations

• Layered Dessert: Serve individual portions in clear glasses, layering cake pieces with almond frosting and cherry puree for a stunning effect.
• Party Platters: Arrange slices on a decorative platter, garnished with whipped cream to elevate your dessert table.

Picnics and Potlucks

• Portable Slices: Pack slices in individual containers for easy transport, making them perfect for sharing at picnics.
• Cake Pops: Crumble leftover cake mixed with frosting, then shape into balls, dip in chocolate, and enjoy as bite-sized treats.

How to Perfect Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

To make your Cherry Sheet Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavor: Use high-quality maraschino cherries for maximum taste.
• Moisture Boost: Add an extra tablespoon of oil to the batter for added moisture.
• Chill Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother frosting.
• Frosting Consistency: Adjust the milk in the frosting to achieve your desired thickness; thicker frosting is easier to spread.
• Bake Evenly: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking throughout the cake.
• Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Cherry Sheet Cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic treat adds creaminess that complements the cherry flavors beautifully.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream can be dolloped on top for added richness without overpowering the cake.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries or seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle this over each slice for chocolate lovers who enjoy a richer dessert experience.
5. Almond Cookies: Crunchy cookies offer a delightful texture contrast alongside the soft cake.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs perfectly with dessert, enhancing flavors while providing a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cherry Sheet Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the blending step: Not blending the cherries can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure to puree them for a smooth consistency.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can result in a tough cake. Blend just until combined for the best texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Always test your cake with a toothpick before removing it from the oven. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect the cake’s rise. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: A greased pan helps prevent sticking. Use cooking spray or butter to coat your baking dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal taste and texture.

Freezing Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and heat more if needed.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries in the Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to pit and chop them. Adjust the sweetness as needed since maraschino cherries are sweeter.

How do I make this Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What is the best way to store leftover Cherry Sheet Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I add other flavors to this Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding vanilla or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for events or gatherings?

Yes, this moist Cherry Sheet Cake is perfect for parties or potlucks due to its large servings and delicious taste!

Final Thoughts

The Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and moist. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or flavorings based on your preference. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 16 1x

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Description

The Cherry Sheet Cake Recipe is a delightful and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake features a light and fluffy cherry-infused base, complemented by a creamy almond buttercream frosting that elevates its flavor profile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. With its vibrant color and irresistible taste, it’s not just a dessert—it’s the centerpiece of any table. Easy to make and serves up to 16 generous slices, this recipe makes it simple to share the joy with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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• 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 butter (softened)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 tsp almond extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blend maraschino cherries until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, mix white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water until combined. Add cherry Jell-O mix and pureed cherries; stir.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
5. Bake for about 30 minutes; check doneness with a toothpick.
6. Cool completely before frosting.
7. For frosting, cream butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until fluffy.
8. Frost cooled cake generously.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 29g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg