Cherry coffee cake is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with the rich, comforting taste of coffee cake. Consequently, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bake the perfect cake, from choosing the right ingredients to serving it in style.
Ingredients and Preparation
To start, you’ll need the following ingredients for your cherry coffee cake:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 8 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can (20 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
For the crumble topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Firstly, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Then, stir in the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. After that, spray a 9 x 9 baking dish with cooking spray and evenly spread the flour mixture at the bottom. Next, mix the lemon extract with the cherry pie filling and spread it over the flour mixture. For the crumble topping, mix the flour and melted butter until it resembles coarse crumbs, then sprinkle on top of the cherry pie filling.
Furthermore, bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 55 to 60 minutes until the crumb topping is brown and bubbly. For a detailed step-by-step guide and additional tips, consider exploring other dessert recipes like the Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake Guide for inspiration on creating rich, flavorful desserts.
Baking Tips and Tricks For Cherry Coffee Cake
Ensuring your cherry coffee cake comes out moist and flavorful every time requires a few baking tips and tricks:
- Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Moisture: To keep the cake moist, do not overbake. Check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Variations: Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of fillings like blueberry, apple, or blackberry for a unique twist on the classic cherry coffee cake.
Moreover, for those looking to explore different variations and advanced baking techniques, the Ultimate Guide to Coconut Cream Meringue Pie offers a wealth of information on how to customize your cake, including using fresh or frozen cherries.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Cherry coffee cake is versatile and can be served on various occasions. Here are some suggestions:
- Coffee Pairings: Serve with a robust coffee to complement the sweetness of the cake.
- Occasions: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Consider adding it to your holiday baking list for a festive treat.
Additionally, for those interested in exploring more dessert options that pair well with coffee, the article on Cherry Hand Pies provides further inspiration for creating delightful cherry-themed desserts.
FAQs About Cherry Coffee Cake
Here are some common questions and answers to help you bake the perfect cake:
- What are the best cherries for baking? Both fresh and canned cherries work well, but make sure to drain canned cherries well.
- How should I store cherry coffee cake? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Can I make cherry coffee cake in advance? Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving.
In conclusion, by following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, moist, and flavorful cherry coffee cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this cake is sure to impress.