Welcome to the world of Cherry Almond Coffee Cake! This delightful recipe combines sweet cherries and nutty almond flavors, creating a treat perfect for any occasion. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps to make your own bakery-style cake at home. You’ll find easy ingredient lists, helpful tips, and even some fun variations. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this amazing dessert!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, gather these ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to switch things up, here are some ideas:
– Use coconut flour instead of almond flour for a different flavor.
– Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthy twist.
– Swap fresh cherries for frozen ones if out of season. Just thaw them first.
– Try honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
Measurement Conversions
Understanding measurements can help you adjust recipes. Here are some common conversions:
– 1 cup = 8 fluid ounces
– 1/2 cup = 4 fluid ounces
– 1 teaspoon = 5 milliliters
– 1 tablespoon = 15 milliliters
These conversions can help you scale the recipe up or down as needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for making a soft cake.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg is mixed in fully before you add the next one. Then, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix everything until it is well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
Finally, gently fold in the fresh cherry halves. This ensures the cherries are spread evenly throughout the batter. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an added crunch.
Baking the Cake
Now it’s time to bake! Place the cake pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes.
Cooling and Serving
After baking, remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important for the best texture.
Once the cake is cool, dust the top with powdered sugar for a nice touch. Slice and serve your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake to family and friends. Enjoy this delightful treat with coffee or tea!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Moisture
To keep your cake moist, use sour cream. It adds richness and prevents dryness. Mixing the butter and sugar well also helps trap air. This makes the cake light. Do not overmix your batter. Gently fold in the cherries. This method keeps the cake fluffy.
Baking Time Adjustments
Ovens can vary in heat. Start checking your cake at 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If it still has batter, give it a few more minutes. Check again to avoid overbaking.
Presentation Tips
Dust your cake with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. You can use a fine sieve for even coverage. Add extra sliced almonds on top for a nice crunch. Serve with fresh cherries on the side for color. A pretty plate can make your cake stand out even more.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make this cake gluten-free. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This swap works well with almond flour. The texture may change slightly, but the taste stays great. Just follow the same steps in the recipe.
Using Different Fruits
Cherry almond coffee cake is versatile. You can use other fruits for fun flavors. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit gives a new twist. Dice the fruit and fold it into the batter just like with cherries. Adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
Flavor Enhancements
Add extra flavor to this cake easily. Consider adding lemon zest for a fresh taste. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg also works well. You can mix in a splash of orange juice with the wet ingredients. These small changes make a big difference. Each bite will surprise your taste buds!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, the fridge is a good option. Just be aware that the cake may dry out a bit in the fridge. Wrap it well in plastic wrap to keep moisture in.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your cake again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat a slice for 15 to 20 seconds. This method works well but might make the cake a bit soft.
Freezing Tips
Freezing your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is easy. First, let it cool completely. Slice the cake into portions for easy thawing. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to squeeze out the air before sealing. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy your delightful treat any time!
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cherry almond coffee cake ahead of time. I suggest baking it a day before you plan to serve it. This cake tastes even better after sitting for a bit. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and fresh.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, use plain yogurt. Greek yogurt works too. Both options give a nice creaminess and tang. You can also mix cream cheese with a little milk for a similar texture. These substitutes maintain the cake’s rich flavor.
How long does the cake last?
This cherry almond coffee cake lasts about three days at room temperature. If you need it to last longer, store it in the fridge. It can last up to a week when chilled. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
You learned about the key ingredients needed for your cake and their alternatives. We talked about how to prep the batter, bake, cool, and serve the cake. Tips on keeping it moist and enhancing its look were shared too. You also saw how to adapt the recipe for gluten-free options and different flavors. Lastly, we covered how to store and reheat your cake properly. Enjoy your baking journey and share your delicious creations with others!
