If you’re in search of a dessert that’s both show-stopping and irresistibly comforting, look no further than this moist Cherry Bundt Cake. Bursting with sweet cherry flavor and tender crumb, this delicious treat brings a perfect balance of fruity brightness and rich sweetness that shines at any celebration or intimate dessert moment. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply an indulgent weeknight sweet, the Cherry Bundt Cake is sure to become your new go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and tender texture: The cake stays beautifully soft and moist thanks to perfectly balanced ingredients and baking technique.
Fresh cherry flavor: Real cherries and cherry extracts infuse the cake with natural fruity sweetness that isn’t artificial or overpowering.
Elegant presentation: The Bundt shape creates a stunning centerpiece that instantly elevates any table setting.
Easy to customize: You can tweak the flavor or add mix-ins effortlessly to suit your personal tastes.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether casual or formal, this cake fits in beautifully for birthdays, holidays, or weekend treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple yet essential with ingredients that contribute to flavor, texture, and appearance, ensuring a perfectly moist and vibrant Cherry Bundt Cake every time.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and light crumb foundation for the cake.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise and stay fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to every bite.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with browning for that perfect golden crust.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture for a luscious texture.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Cherry juice or cherry extract: Concentrated cherry flavor that makes the cake truly sing.
Fresh or frozen cherries: Adds real fruit bursts and beautiful natural color inside the cake.
Sour cream or yogurt: Keeps the crumb moist and tender, while adding subtle tanginess.

Variations

You can easily customize this Cherry Bundt Cake to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile recipe for all kinds of bakers. Try these fun ideas to switch things up:

Chocolate cherry bundt cake: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend without losing texture.
Almond cherry cake: Add almond extract and sprinkle slivered almonds on top for a nutty finish.
Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based butter and egg replacers to create a delicious vegan version.
Spiced cherry bundt cake: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to warm up the flavor in fall or winter.

Moist Cherry Bundt Cake Recipe Perfect for Any Celebration

How to Make Cherry Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

Grease your Bundt pan well with butter or non-stick spray and lightly dust with flour to ensure easy removal. Preheat your oven to the specified temperature and gather all your ingredients at room temperature for even mixing.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a consistent texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This incorporates air and sets the base for a light cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and cherry juice or extract. Mix until fully combined for a gorgeous cherry-scented batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry mixture in three additions, alternating with sour cream or yogurt. Start and end with the flour mixture to maintain structure and moisture balance.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the fresh or frozen cherries to distribute them evenly without crushing, giving the cake beautiful pockets of cherry sweetness.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45 to 55 minutes, depending on your oven.

Step 8: Cool and Remove

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before serving or glazing.

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Bundt Cake

Room temperature ingredients: Bring all ingredients to room temp for smoother batter and better rise.
Properly grease the pan: Use butter and flour or a specialized Bundt pan spray to ensure the cake releases easily.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until ingredients combine to avoid a dense cake.
Choose cherries carefully: Use fresh or well-drained frozen cherries to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick at the center; a few moist crumbs are perfect, but no wet batter.

How to Serve Cherry Bundt Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your Cherry Bundt Cake by dusting it with powdered sugar, drizzling a simple glaze made from cherry juice and powdered sugar, or topping it with fresh cherries and a sprig of mint for a fresh and inviting look.

Side Dishes

Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, freshly whipped cream, or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to complement the sweet and tart cherry flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into generous wedges and arrange on a decorative platter adorned with whole cherries or edible flowers. For celebrations, decorate with colored sprinkles or a thin layer of cherry-flavored glaze to add festive flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Cherry Bundt Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze the cake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes to restore softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work great. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free yogurt or sour cream to keep the cake moist and flavorful.

How long will the Cherry Bundt Cake stay fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for about 2 days, and 5 days if refrigerated.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing texture.

What is the best way to slice a Bundt cake?

Use a sharp serrated knife and slice gently with a back-and-forth motion to maintain the cake’s shape and prevent tearing.

Final Thoughts

Ready to delight your friends, family, and yourself with a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious? Give this moist Cherry Bundt Cake a try and watch it become the star of any gathering. It’s comforting, flavorful, and straightforward to make—what’s not to love?

Cherry Bundt Cake

Author: Savannah
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A moist and tender Cherry Bundt Cake bursting with fresh cherry flavor and a beautiful crumb. Perfect for celebrations or any dessert moment, this cake balances fruity brightness with rich sweetness and features an elegant Bundt shape to impress.

Instructions

Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients: Grease your Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray and lightly dust with flour to ensure easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bring all ingredients to room temperature for even mixing.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensure a consistent texture.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air that helps create a light cake.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then mix in vanilla extract and cherry juice or cherry extract until the batter is fragrant and smooth with a cherry scent.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt. Start and finish with the flour mixture to maintain structure and moisture balance. Mix each addition just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
Fold in Cherries: Gently fold the fresh or frozen cherries into the batter, being careful not to crush them, so that the cake will have pockets of sweet, juicy cherries throughout.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Remove: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving or adding any glaze or garnish.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better rise.
Properly grease and flour the Bundt pan to ensure easy cake release.
Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake texture.
Choose fresh or well-drained frozen cherries to avoid excess moisture.
Test doneness with a toothpick; some moist crumbs are ideal, but no raw batter should remain.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American