Cherry Blossom Dream Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to transform a regular afternoon into something utterly magical, this Cherry Blossom Dream Cake is your secret weapon. With its soft, fluffy crumb, lovely blush pink hue, and delightfully sweet cherry notes, every bite is a celebration of spring and joy. A generous swirl of cherry-kissed buttercream atop the cake and a scattering of maraschino cherries promise that this dessert is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re hosting a party, shower, or just craving something special, the Cherry Blossom Dream Cake is pure happiness on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about the Cherry Blossom Dream Cake is how it takes such simple, everyday ingredients and turns them into something show-stopping. Each element is carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of taste, tender texture, and that gorgeous burst of cherry color.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure, ensuring each slice is soft but holds together beautifully.
• Baking powder: Gives the cake a lovely, even rise and an airy texture.
• Baking soda: Helps tenderize the crumb and balances the tang of buttermilk and cherry juice.
• Salt: Just a touch to enhance all the flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
• Unsalted butter (for cake): Infuses richness and a bit of melt-in-your-mouth quality to every bite.
• Vegetable oil: Brings extra moisture so your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake never tastes dry.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping it fluff up and brown beautifully.
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and give the cake a delicate, tender crumb.
• Almond extract: Adds that signature cherry blossom fragrance, enhancing the floral notes.
• Buttermilk: Ensures a soft, tender texture and a hint of tang that’s just perfect with cherries.
• Maraschino cherry juice (for cake): Lends a subtle pink color and distinct cherry flavor.
• Finely chopped maraschino cherries: Fill every bite with bright pops of juicy cherry goodness.
• Pink or red food coloring (optional): Use it for that irresistible, blushing cherry blossom look.
• Unsalted butter (for frosting): Makes a creamy, luscious base for the cherry buttercream.
• Powdered sugar: Sift it for the silkiest, smoothest frosting ever.
• Maraschino cherry juice (for frosting): Brings that unmistakable flavor and charming pink hue to your icing.
• Vanilla extract: Balances the cherry flavor and adds warmth.
• Salt (for frosting): An essential pinch to make the sweet frosting taste even better.
• Whole maraschino cherries with stems: The crowning jewel for each slice—don’t skip them!

How to Make Cherry Blossom Dream Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment for easy removal. This one little preparation step prevents sticking and makes sure your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake layers slide out looking flawless every time.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these separately first ensures each leavener is well distributed, so you get a perfectly risen, evenly textured cake—no unexpected lumps here!

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is key to creating that light and dreamy crumb—don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Almond Extract

Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl to keep everything silky smooth. Then, mix in the almond extract for that enchanting floral note, just like cherry blossoms on a spring breeze.

Step 5: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, stir together the buttermilk and maraschino cherry juice. The cherry juice tints the buttermilk a soft pink and gives your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake its signature cherry flavor.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry—Then Add Cherries

With your mixer on low, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk mixture to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender. Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries and a drop or two of food coloring if you want that dreamy pink hue.

Step 7: Bake

Evenly divide the batter between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a rack to cool completely—patience pays off with tender, moist layers!

Step 8: Make the Cherry Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip until the frosting is light, lush, and pink. Adjust the color with food coloring if you’d like an extra pop.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cherry buttercream across the top, then gently set the second layer on top. Frost the sides and top, swirling the buttercream for a “blossom” effect. Top the finished Cherry Blossom Dream Cake with whole maraschino cherries to make it truly irresistible.

How to Serve Cherry Blossom Dream Cake

Garnishes

For a classic look, crown each slice with a whole maraschino cherry on top and scatter a few chopped cherries or white chocolate shavings around the plate. If you’re feeling extra festive, edible flower petals or a light dusting of powdered sugar will make your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake look straight out of a springtime fairytale.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement its delicate flavors. Slices are also lovely served alongside fresh strawberries or a glass of chilled sparkling rosé for a truly celebratory dessert course.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try baking the batter as cupcakes and piping on towering swirls of cherry frosting. Or, slice the cake into petite squares and serve them on a floral-patterned tray for a spring tea party vibe. A drizzle of cherry syrup around each plate adds a luxurious finish and an extra pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Cherry Blossom Dream Cake left over, simply cover it tightly and store at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cherry flavor often deepens after a day, making every leftover slice just as dreamy.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them well and stashing in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost and garnish fresh before serving your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake for perfect flavor and moisture.

Reheating

If your cake has chilled in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. While you don’t want to microwave a frosted cake, a quick zap (10–15 seconds) of a slice in the microwave will bring back that just-baked softness and make the cherry buttercream a little melty and extra luscious.

FAQs

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Swap in a reliable 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Double check that your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you can enjoy Cherry Blossom Dream Cake even if you’re avoiding gluten.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries aren’t quite as sweet or soft, but you can use them when in season. Simply pit, chop, and gently fold them into the batter, and use a splash of cherry juice or syrup to intensify the flavor.

What’s the best way to get a bright pink cake?

A few drops of gel food coloring will give your Cherry Blossom Dream Cake that perfectly dreamy blush. Start small—you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk. The cake will still be wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Can I assemble the Cherry Blossom Dream Cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the layers and prepare the frosting a day ahead. Store separately and assemble the cake right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a dessert that’s guaranteed to awe and delight, look no further than this Cherry Blossom Dream Cake. It’s sweet, it’s celebratory, and every bite feels like a kiss of spring. I hope you give this beautiful cake a try soon—it just might become your new favorite for every special occasion!

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