Delightful Cherry Bakewell Cake Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Cherries and Almonds

Cherry Bakewell Cake is a delightful and classic British dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of cherries with the nutty taste of almonds. This cake is a perfect blend of moist almond sponge, tangy cherry jam, and a crisp almond topping. It is a popular treat for afternoon tea or as a dessert for any special occasion. The combination of cherries and almonds creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds. Let's embark on a flavorful food adventure by baking this scrumptious Cherry Bakewell Cake!

Ingredients required for the cake

Ingredients required for the Cherry Bakewell Cake:

1. 1 cup all-purpose flour

2. 1/2 cup almond flour

3. 1 teaspoon baking powder

4. 1/4 teaspoon salt

5. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

6. 3/4 cup granulated sugar

7. 2 large eggs

8. 1 teaspoon almond extract

9. 1/2 cup milk

10. 1 cup pitted cherries, halved

These ingredients come together to create a delightful cake that perfectly blends the flavors of cherries and almonds in every bite.

Step-by-step instructions for baking the cake

Step-by-step instructions for baking the Cherry Bakewell Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add in 4 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of almond extract and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor.

5. Gradually fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder until just combined.

6. Gently fold in 1 cup of pitted and halved cherries.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, you can optionally drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Bakewell Cake!

Tips for serving and storing the cake

When serving the Cherry Bakewell Cake, consider dusting it with powdered sugar for a decorative touch. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, enhancing its almond and cherry flavors. To store the cake, ensure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture experience.

Variations and substitutions for the recipe

Variations and substitutions for the Cherry Bakewell Cake recipe allow for creativity and personal preferences. For a twist, you can add a layer of raspberry jam between the almond sponge and cherry topping to create a Raspberry Bakewell Cake. Alternatively, you can substitute the cherries with other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile. For those with nut allergies, you can replace the ground almonds with an equal amount of plain flour or gluten-free flour blend to maintain the texture of the cake. Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as toasted flaked almonds or a drizzle of white chocolate for added decadence.

Nutritional information and benefits of cherries and almonds in the cake

Cherries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, which can help boost immunity and aid digestion. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, promoting heart health and providing energy. Together in the Cherry Bakewell Cake, they offer a nutritious treat that satisfies sweet cravings while offering essential nutrients for overall well-being. Enjoy this delightful cake guilt-free knowing it contains beneficial ingredients for your body.