If you’re looking for a dessert that’s irresistibly moist, bursting with cherry flavor, and topped with a dreamy frosting, then you’re going to adore this Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a celebration with every bite, blending sweet cherries and a hint of almond warmth in the frosting that will have you reaching for seconds before you even finish your first slice. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become your go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you just need a little slice of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe comes down to a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create that perfect cake. Each item not only adds flavor but also ensures the right texture, moisture, and that beautiful hint of cherry color making the cake as delicious as it looks.
- White cake mix: A quick and reliable base that guarantees a tender crumb and fluffy texture every time.
- Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and give structure to the cake.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft without weighing it down.
- Water: Helps to activate the dry mix and keep the batter smooth.
- Cherry Jell-O: Adds vibrant cherry flavor and a subtle pink swirl that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
- Maraschino cherries: Pureed to infuse the batter with bursts of sweet, bright cherry goodness.
- Butter (softened): A rich, creamy base for the frosting that adds depth and flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): Brings tanginess and silky smoothness to the almond cream cheese frosting.
- Almond extract: The star ingredient in the frosting that gives it a warm, nutty aroma and taste.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Milk: Adjusts frosting texture, making it fluffy and easy to spread.
How to Make Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly right from the get-go. While the oven warms, drain your maraschino cherries and blend them into a smooth puree. This puree is what will give your cake that beautiful cherry swirl and natural fruit sweetness.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir these together until you have a smooth batter with no lumps. Then add in the cherry Jell-O powder and your pureed cherries. The Jell-O adds a pop of color while the cherries deliver juicy flavor and moisture. Gently fold all the ingredients until just combined so you keep that light texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a well-greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Spread it evenly to ensure a uniform bake. Pop it into the oven for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and use a toothpick to check doneness—when it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready.
Step 4: Cool and Prepare Frosting
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial so your frosting doesn’t melt and slide off. For the frosting, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Then gradually add powdered sugar while mixing, followed by the almond extract and enough milk to reach a spreadable, silky texture.
Step 5: Frost and Finish
Once your cake is fully cooled, generously cover it with the almond cream cheese frosting. Spread evenly with a spatula, making sure to coat every corner for maximum indulgence. This frosting’s sweet-tangy flavor and almond aroma will perfectly complement the cherry swirls beneath.
How to Serve Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by adding a few thoughtful garnishes. Consider sprinkling sliced almonds on top for a slight crunch that echoes the almond flavor in your frosting. Fresh cherries or a light dusting of powdered sugar also add visual appeal and that extra touch of charm to every slice served.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a simple bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream complements the warm tones in the cake and frosting. If you’re after a beverage, a cup of hot tea or coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your cherry sheet cake into neat squares and arranging them on a festive platter with scattered maraschino cherries around the edges. For a party, serve mini squares with toothpicks for easy, mess-free snacking. You could also layer the cake into a trifle dish with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a stunning layered dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is a safe option, just be sure to bring the cake back to room temperature before serving to revive its soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then let it come to room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
While this cake is best enjoyed fresh, if you prefer a slightly warm slice, pop individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings out the moist texture and melts the frosting slightly, creating a luscious treat that feels just out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can work wonderfully; just puree them the same way. Keep in mind fresh cherries might add extra moisture, so monitor the batter’s consistency to avoid it becoming too thin.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
You can substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free mix of your choice, ideally one that mimics the texture of a traditional cake mix. The other ingredients remain the same, and your cake will still feature the same lovely cherry and almond flavors.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t on hand, you can swap it for vanilla extract, though the almond flavor is signature to this frosting. Using vanilla will still yield a creamy, delicious frosting, just less nutty.
Can I make this cake in a different pan size?
You can, but baking times may vary. If you choose a smaller pan, expect the cake to bake longer, and a larger pan may require less time. Keep an eye on it and use the toothpick test to determine doneness.
How do I prevent my frosting from being too runny?
Gradually add milk when mixing your frosting until it reaches your desired consistency. If it gets too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it back up. Using chilled cream cheese and butter also helps maintain a firmer frosting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of cherry and almond in this Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s a wonderful shortcut to a showstopping dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to pull together. Whether it’s a birthday, a casual get-together, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake brings joy, flavor, and a little slice of magic to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just as I have!
Print
Cherry Swirl Sheet Cake with Almond Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Sheet Cake recipe is a delicious and moist white cake infused with cherry flavor, topped with a creamy almond cream cheese frosting. Made with simple ingredients including a white cake mix, cherry Jell-O, and maraschino cherries, this easy-to-make sheet cake is perfect for gatherings and dessert tables.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 package white cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 oz cherry Jell-O mix
- 10–12 oz maraschino cherries, drained
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Puree Cherries: Drain the maraschino cherries and blend them until smooth to incorporate into the batter.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined. Then add the cherry Jell-O powder and the pureed cherries, stirring until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking, then pour in the prepared batter.
- Bake Cake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool Cake: Remove cake from oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Make Frosting: In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost Cake: Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the fully cooled cake. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can adjust the milk quantity in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency.
- For a stronger almond flavor, you can add a little more almond extract if preferred.
- If you prefer, substitute maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen cherries but reduce added sugar accordingly.
- This cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
