Easy Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe with Luscious Buttercream Frosting

Get ready to bake a truly unforgettable dessert with our delightful **Cherry Chip Cake** recipe, generously adorned with a *luscious homemade buttercream icing*. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a vibrant, pretty pink confection bursting with sweet cherry flavor, making it a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or simply craving something wonderfully indulgent, this cake promises a decadent experience that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

This Cherry Chip Cake is truly a rich and indulgent dessert that comes together with incredible ease. While it looks like a gourmet creation, it’s a surprisingly simple cake recipe that even novice bakers can master. We adore cherry flavors in our family, and this cake is no exception. If you share our love for cherries, you might also enjoy our Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe, a refreshing No Bake Cherry Cheesecake, or our delightful Cherry Poke Cake Recipe. For another simple and delicious cherry treat, don’t miss our Cherry Strudel Recipe. But for now, let’s dive into the star of the show: the Cherry Chip Cake!

What is Cherry Chip Cake?

Cherry Chip Cake is a delightful, flavorful cake often recognized by its signature pink hue and sweet cherry pieces throughout. Our rendition starts with a convenient cake mix, making it an accessible recipe for everyone. Forget the complexities of using specialized cake flour or all-purpose flour measurements from scratch; this recipe simplifies the process while delivering maximum flavor. The star additions are finely chopped Maraschino cherries, which infuse the batter with their unique sweetness and create those characteristic “chips” of flavor and color.

But the decadence doesn’t stop there. This dessert is elevated with a homemade cherry buttercream icing that is truly irresistible. The secret to its gorgeous pink color and intense flavor lies in the juice reserved from the Maraschino cherries. This naturally colors the frosting, giving it a beautiful, inviting shade that’s perfect for any festive table. This cake is stunning for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, a vibrant birthday cake, or simply to brighten any day of the year. If you find yourself captivated by this cherry-chocolate combination, you’ll definitely want to try our Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream too!

Why We Love This Easy Cherry Chip Cake Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Cherry Chip Cake, making it a staple in our dessert rotation! Firstly, it’s a fantastic semi-homemade recipe, which means you get all the deliciousness of a scratch-made cake with a fraction of the effort. Starting with a basic white cake mix, we add Maraschino cherries and other simple pantry ingredients to transform it into something extraordinary. This clever shortcut ensures that even on busy days, you can whip up a stunning and tasty dessert.

The ingredient list is minimal, allowing this cake to come together incredibly fast, perfect for those last-minute cravings or unexpected guests. The real highlight, however, is the homemade buttercream icing. It’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch, and the payoff in flavor and texture is immense. The secret truly lies in the precious cherry juice from the Maraschino jar; it infuses the buttercream with an unparalleled flavor and gives it that beautiful, natural pink hue. This combination of a moist, flavorful cake and a rich, fruity icing creates a dessert that’s not just easy to make, but also packed with an incredible depth of cherry flavor that everyone will adore.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this delicious Cherry Chip Cake requires just a few simple ingredients, easily found at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, proving that you don’t need exotic items to create a truly memorable dessert. We’ve broken down the ingredients for both the cake and the irresistible buttercream icing below.

For the Moist Cherry Cake

• White Cake Mix: This is our convenient shortcut! Any standard brand of white cake mix (15 oz) will work beautifully as the base for our light and fluffy cake.
• Maraschino Cherries: You’ll need a 10 oz jar, specifically both the cherries and their vibrant juice. Don’t discard the juice, as it’s crucial for both the cake batter and the icing, adding flavor and that signature pink color.
• Eggs: For the best texture and rise, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate more evenly into the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the richest flavor profile that complements the cherries perfectly.
• Vegetable Oil and Water: These are typically called for in standard cake mix instructions and help create a moist and tender crumb.

For the Decadent Cherry Buttercream Icing

• Unsalted Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This is key for achieving a smooth, creamy buttercream without lumps.
• Vanilla Extract: Again, pure vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and aroma. For a twist, you can also use almond extract to complement the cherry flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar. Sift it before using if you notice any lumps to ensure a silky-smooth icing.
• Milk: Whole milk is preferred for a richer, creamier texture, but any milk you have on hand will work.
• Maraschino Cherry Juice: This is the secret ingredient that gives our buttercream its beautiful pink color and delightful cherry flavor. Reserve this from the jar of cherries used in the cake.

Find the complete, detailed ingredient list with precise measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about this Cherry Chip Cake recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is utterly delicious, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some fantastic variations to inspire your next baking adventure:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a delightful flavor combination, try adding chocolate chips to your cake batter. This is a very popular addition to cherry chip cake mix recipes. I highly recommend incorporating about ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to ensure a balanced chocolate-to-cherry ratio. To prevent the chocolate chips from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking, toss them with a tablespoon of dry cake mix or flour before gently folding them into the batter.
• Make a Sheet Cake: If you’re feeding a crowd or prefer a simpler presentation, this recipe can easily be adapted into a 9×13 inch sheet cake instead of stacked layers. Remember to adjust the baking time accordingly for this larger pan size, typically following the instructions on your cake mix box for a 9×13 pan. It’s a convenient way to serve many slices with ease.
• Garnish with Extra Cherries: While optional, garnishing the top of your finished cake with whole Maraschino cherries adds a beautiful and elegant touch. I love to place a few vibrant red cherries strategically around the dollops or swirls of icing on top of the cake. This visual pop of color truly enhances its gorgeous appeal.
• Experiment with Cake Mix Flavors: While a white cake mix yields the most vibrant pink cake, you can certainly use a yellow cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile. Both options result in a delicious cake, but if that classic pink color is what you’re after, stick with the white cake mix.
• Boost the Vanilla Flavor: If you’re a true vanilla enthusiast, feel free to increase the amount of vanilla extract in the cake to 2 teaspoons. This will give the cake a more pronounced, aromatic vanilla base that perfectly complements the cherry.
• Introduce Almond Extract: For a more complex and traditional cherry flavor (often associated with Maraschino cherries), consider substituting a teaspoon of almond extract for some or all of the vanilla extract in both the cake and the frosting. Almond pairs exceptionally well with cherry.
• Go Full Homemade Cake: If you enjoy baking from scratch, you can certainly adapt your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe. Simply add chopped Maraschino cherries and a bit of their juice to your batter, which typically includes basic pantry staples like salt, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, large egg whites, and more. Then, proceed with making the cherry buttercream.

How to Make Cherry Chip Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this stunning Cherry Chip Cake is a straightforward process, even for beginner bakers. Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfectly moist cake with delectable cherry buttercream frosting.

• Step 1: Prepare Your Pans. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Take two 9-inch round cake pans and generously coat them with a non-stick cooking spray. For an extra non-stick layer, you can also dust the pans with a light coating of cake flour or all-purpose flour.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherries. Carefully drain the cherry juice from the jar of Maraschino cherries into a separate bowl – this juice is liquid gold for our icing! Next, take half of the drained cherries and finely chop them into small pieces. These will be folded into your cake batter, creating those lovely cherry “chips.” Set aside the remaining whole cherries; they’ll be used later as a beautiful topping for your finished cake.

Step 3: Combine Cake Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine your white cake mix, the finely chopped cherries, vegetable oil, room temperature eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, water, and ½ cup of the reserved cherry juice. This combination creates a moist, flavorful batter with a beautiful pink tint from the cherry juice.

Step 4: Mix the Batter. Using an electric mixer (either a hand-held or stand mixer), mix all the dry and wet ingredients together on medium speed until they are just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are perfectly acceptable and actually help ensure a tender cake crumb. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes. Evenly pour the prepared batter into your two round cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 24-29 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating no wet batter remains.

Step 6: Cool Completely. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in their pans for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert them onto a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. This is a crucial step – frosting a warm cake will result in melted, messy icing!

Step 7: Prepare the Icing. While the cakes are cooling, prepare your luscious cherry buttercream icing. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream the softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of the reserved Maraschino cherry juice. Gradually add the milk, beating on medium-high speed until the icing reaches your desired smooth, spreadable consistency. Add more cherry juice or milk a teaspoon at a time if it’s too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.

Step 8: Level the Cakes. Once completely cool, gently remove the cake layers from their pans. Using a long serrated knife, carefully slice off any domed portion from the top of each cake layer. This creates flat, even surfaces, ensuring your stacked cake looks professional and stable.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake. Place one leveled cake layer onto your chosen serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of the cherry buttercream frosting evenly over the top of this first layer. Then, carefully place the second cake layer directly on top, aligning it perfectly.

Step 10: Frost the Entire Cake. Using an offset spatula or a butter knife, carefully frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining buttercream frosting. Aim for a smooth, even coating. You can reserve a small amount of frosting for decorative piping if desired.

Step 11: Decorate and Chill. If you reserved some frosting, pipe decorative swirls or borders on top of the cake. Finally, place the remaining whole Maraschino cherries on top of these swirls or simply scatter them across the cake for a truly lovely and inviting pink cake. For best results and to allow the frosting to set, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This also helps meld the flavors beautifully.

Storage Solutions for Your Cherry Chip Cake

Ensuring your delicious Cherry Chip Cake stays fresh and delightful for as long as possible is key. Proper storage helps maintain its moist texture and vibrant flavor. Here’s how to best store any leftover cake:

For short-term storage, keep any leftover cake in the refrigerator. It’s essential to place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from your fridge. Stored this way, the cake will remain fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. For more detailed insights, you can read our guide on How Long Does Cake Last in the Fridge.

If you need to extend the cake’s lifespan beyond a few days, freezing is an excellent option. Your Cherry Chip Cake can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. To freeze a whole or large portion of cake, make sure to wrap it tightly in multiple layers. First, wrap it thoroughly with plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in. Then, add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. This double-layer wrapping is crucial for maintaining its freshness and preventing ice crystals from forming.

Another convenient option for freezing is to portion the cake into individual slices. I highly recommend this method, as it allows you to easily grab a single slice whenever a craving strikes, without having to thaw the entire cake. To prevent individual slices from sticking together, place small pieces of parchment paper between each slice before arranging them in a freezer-safe container. You can also individually wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then foil, just as you would a larger portion, to ensure maximum freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature. For best results, let it thaw in its wrapping to help retain moisture. Once thawed, it will taste almost as fresh as the day it was baked!

Expert Pro Tips for Baking Success

Achieving a bakery-worthy Cherry Chip Cake is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips. These suggestions will help you perfect your technique and ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted every time.

• Choose Any Brand of Cake Mix: Don’t feel limited by specific brands. This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to use any brand of white cake mix you prefer or happen to have in your pantry. Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, or even a store brand will all yield fantastic results for your cherry cake base.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: This is a golden rule in baking, especially with cake mixes. Once the wet and dry ingredients are just combined, stop mixing. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a dense, tough cake. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly normal and actually a good sign that you haven’t overmixed.
• Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients: For the buttercream icing, it’s vital that your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This allows the butter to cream smoothly with the powdered sugar, creating a light, airy, and lump-free frosting with a superior texture. Hard butter will result in a clumpy, difficult-to-spread icing.
• Amplify the Pink with Food Coloring: While the Maraschino cherry juice naturally imparts a lovely pink color to the icing, if you desire a more vibrant, eye-catching pink hue, you can add a few drops of red food coloring to the buttercream when mixing. This is entirely optional but can make your cake even more striking for special events.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency (Thin): If you find your buttercream frosting is too thick to spread smoothly, gradually add a little extra Maraschino cherry juice or milk, one teaspoon at a time. Mix well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much liquid at once, as it’s easier to add more than to correct an overly thin frosting.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency (Thick): Conversely, if your frosting turns out too thin or runny, you can easily thicken it by adding more powdered sugar. Start by adding one tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the frosting reaches a firm, spreadable consistency.
• Always Have Extra Cherries: The recipe calls for one jar of Maraschino cherries, but I often recommend buying two. This ensures you have plenty of cherries for both the cake and the frosting, with extra to spare for a beautiful garnish on top. Having a few whole, perfectly red cherries for decoration truly elevates the presentation.
• Cool the Cake Completely: Patience is a virtue when it comes to frosting a cake. Your cake layers must be completely cool before you attempt to apply any frosting. If the cake is even slightly warm, the buttercream will melt and slide right off, resulting in a messy and frustrating experience.
• Prevent Cherries from Sinking: To ensure the chopped cherries are evenly distributed throughout your cake and don’t all sink to the bottom, a simple trick is to lightly coat them with a tablespoon of dry cake mix or all-purpose flour before adding them to the batter. This light coating helps them suspend in the batter during baking.
• Dry the Cherries Before Chopping: Before chopping your Maraschino cherries, it’s a good idea to pat them dry with paper towels. While we use some of the juice, excess moisture on the cherries themselves can affect the cake batter’s consistency. A quick pat dry ensures they integrate perfectly.

More Irresistible Homemade Cake Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed baking this Cherry Chip Cake, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic homemade cake recipes from our collection. Expand your baking repertoire with these delightful options:

• Crack Cake Recipe: An incredibly moist and flavorful cake that lives up to its name – you won’t be able to stop at one slice!
• Hawaiian Wedding Cake: A tropical delight featuring crushed pineapple and coconut, perfect for a taste of paradise.
• Easy 7 Up Cake Recipe: A classic, buttery pound cake with a hint of lemon-lime soda for an extra moist crumb.
• Lemon Blackberry Cake: A refreshing and vibrant cake combining tart lemon with sweet blackberries.
• Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe: For chocolate lovers, this rich and fudgy cake pairs perfectly with sweet cherries.
• Margarita Cake Recipe: A fun and zesty cake infused with the refreshing flavors of a classic margarita.
• Hummingbird Cake Recipe: A Southern classic packed with pineapple, bananas, and pecans, topped with cream cheese frosting.

If you have never experienced the pure joy of a homemade Cherry Chip Cake, this recipe is an absolute must-try. From the incredibly moist cake studded with cherry bits to the rich, smooth, and vibrant buttercream icing, every single bite is truly amazing. We genuinely love hearing from you, so please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below once you’ve tried this recipe and tell us what you think!