Description
This Cherry Garcia Layer Cake is a decadent dessert featuring moist vanilla cake studded with maraschino cherries and mini chocolate chips, layered with a luscious cherry buttercream frosting. Topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and whole cherries, this elegant cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. A stunning homemade cake inspired by the beloved Cherry Garcia flavor!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Cherry Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings
- Whole cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch cake pans.
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk. Gently fold in chopped cherries and mini chocolate chips.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: Beat butter, powdered sugar, cherry juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble: Spread cherry frosting between the cake layers, then frost the entire cake.
- Decorate: Pipe whipped cream on top, garnish with chocolate shavings and whole cherries.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Drain the maraschino cherries well and pat them dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
