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CHERRY LAYER CAKE WITH CHERRY CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

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Ingredients
  

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons for dusting cherries
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 6 large egg whites room temperature
  • ⅔ cup maraschino cherry juice
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
  • 16 ounces cream cheese room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 cups powdered sugar

Instructions
 

  • Instructions:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line three 8" or 9" round cake pans with parchment paper to guarantee easy removal after baking.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In another medium bowl, whisk the egg whites, cherry juice, milk, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Then, add the sour cream and mix until fully incorporated.
  • Gradually mix in half of the dry ingredients until just combined. Next, add the egg white mixture and mix until combined, followed by the remaining dry ingredients. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together in a large bowl until smooth. Add the cherry juice and mix until well combined.
  • Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated, then add the vanilla extract and any additional flavorings if desired. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
  • Once the cake layers are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat until all layers are stacked. Use the remaining frosting to coat the top and sides of the cake.
  • Chill the frosted cake until the frosting reaches the desired spreading consistency, then serve. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For best results, allow the cake to sit for a few hours or overnight after frosting to let the flavors meld together. Additionally, the rich cherry flavor makes it suitable for any season, pairing well with classic cherry pie or black forest trifle.
  • You can also enhance the presentation by garnishing the cake with additional maraschino cherries on top or around the base. Enjoy your delicious Cherry Layer Cake with friends and family!