As I bit into a slice of this Cherry Cake with Pudding, the vibrant burst of fresh cherries transported me to a sun-drenched orchard, where every fruit feels like a little piece of summer magic. This delightful dessert offers a quick way to elevate your baking game with minimal fuss. You'll love its two irresistible benefits: it only takes about 15 minutes to prep and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The heavenly vanilla pudding drizzled over the cake adds a creamy twist that perfectly complements the juicy cherries. If you're ready to trade fast food for something truly homemade and delicious, you won't want to miss this recipe! What’s your favorite way to use cherries in your baking?
Why Choose This Cherry Cake?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just 15 minutes of prep, you'll be on your way to a delicious dessert without any fuss.
Bursting with Flavor: The fresh cherries not only add a juicy twist but also a beautiful pop of color to your cake, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm or chilled, making it the perfect treat for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: With approximately 12 servings, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Comforting and Indulgent: The creamy vanilla pudding topping brings an extra layer of richness, turning each bite into a moment of bliss.
Cherry Cake with Pudding Ingredients
Get ready to bake a delightful treat!
For the Cake
- Fresh cherries – You’ll need 2 cups, pitted and halved for that juicy burst of flavor in each slice.
- Yellow cake mix – A 15.25 oz box makes the base super easy and delicious.
- Large eggs – 3 eggs help bind everything together, giving your cake a lovely texture.
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup, melted, adds richness for that homemade feel.
- Whole milk – A cup of milk keeps the batter moist and fluffy.
For the Pudding Topping
- Instant vanilla pudding mix – One 3.4 oz box creates a creamy topping that pairs wonderfully with the cherry cake.
- Whole milk – 1 cup, used with the pudding mix to achieve the perfect consistency.
Enjoy crafting this Cherry Cake with Pudding, where every bite brings summer sweetness right to your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Cake with Pudding
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure your Cherry Cake with Pudding releases easily after baking. This preparation step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and whole milk. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy, forming a luscious batter. You should see a lovely, velvety consistency that promises a delightful cake.
Step 3: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold in half of the fresh, pitted cherries into the batter using a spatula. This will disperse the juicy cherry pieces throughout the Cherry Cake with Pudding, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor. Be careful not to overmix, as we want those cherries to remain intact.
Step 4: Pour and Add Topping
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cherries on top for added beauty and flavor. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Whisk the Pudding
While the cake is baking, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 1 cup of whole milk in a separate bowl until thickened. This mixture will create a creamy topping that complements the Cherry Cake wonderfully, adding a luxurious texture to each slice.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the thick pudding mixture evenly over the top. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb, then cut the Cherry Cake into squares. Whether served warm or chilled, this delightful dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends at any gathering.
Expert Tips for Cherry Cake with Pudding
Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise ingredients. This helps ensure the perfect texture in your Cherry Cake with Pudding.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the cherries into the batter. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the pudding topping, ensuring it adheres nicely without sliding off.
Taste the Cherries: Select sweet, ripe cherries for best flavor. Avoid using sour or overly firm cherries that could affect the overall taste.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the Cherry Cake with Pudding fresh and delicious!
What to Serve with Cherry Cake with Pudding
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness of fresh cherries and creamy pudding!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy balance to the rich pudding and cake layers. It feels indulgent and elevates every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside your cherry cake for a classic combo. The cold creaminess perfectly contrasts with the warm cake and bursts of cherry.
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Sweetened Greek Yogurt: This healthful option offers a tangy twist that cuts through the sweetness, making it an excellent pairing for rich desserts.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cake adds a decadent layer of flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the cherries.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the cake, enhancing the overall experience.
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Minty Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with mint provides a cool contrast that complements the cake's richness beautifully.
Indulge in these pairings, and turn your Cherry Cake with Pudding into a truly memorable dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
Planning for busy weeknights? This Cherry Cake with Pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and milk, then fold in half of the cherries. Store the batter in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Additionally, you can whisk together the pudding mix and milk 2 days in advance; keep it covered in the refrigerator to retain its creamy texture. When it’s time to serve, pour the cake batter into the baking dish, add the remaining cherries, and pop it in the oven. In just a few minutes, enjoy a delightful dessert that tastes just as delicious as fresh!
Cherry Cake with Pudding Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while crafting this Cherry Cake with Pudding, as there are endless possibilities awaiting your kitchen!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix to keep everyone included in the fun!
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Berry Blend: Mix in a cup of mixed berries like blueberries or raspberries for extra fruity goodness. Each burst of flavor will dance on your palate, creating a delightful array of tastes.
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Almond Milk: Substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option, keeping the cake moist while adding a subtle nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Dress it up with a chocolate ganache instead of pudding for a decadent twist. Melt dark chocolate with a bit of cream to create an indulgent topping that'll satisfy the chocoholics.
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Cinnamon Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a warm flavor enhancement. The cozy warmth of cinnamon elevates the cake, giving it a hint of spice in every bite.
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Pineapple Surprise: Fold in crushed pineapple for a tropical flair that complements cherries beautifully. This sunny addition brings a luscious, moist element that feels like a vacation on your plate.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper. It adds an unexpected and exciting zing to the sweetness!
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Nutty Crunch: Top your cake with chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. The added texture takes the cake to a delightful new level, making it a standout dessert.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Cake with Pudding
Room Temperature: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness before refrigerating.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This preserves the moisture and flavor of your Cherry Cake with Pudding.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through, bringing back that just-baked goodness!
Cherry Cake with Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for this Cherry Cake with Pudding?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using sweet, ripe cherries that are firm to the touch. Look for glossy skins and avoid cherries with dark spots or blemishes. Fresh cherries are key to a delicious cake!
How should I store leftover Cherry Cake with Pudding?
After enjoying this delightful treat, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the pudding fresh. You can also cover it with plastic wrap if you prefer.
Can I freeze Cherry Cake with Pudding?
Very! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely and then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave for the best taste.
What should I do if my cake is dense?
If you find that your Cherry Cake with Pudding turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or too much flour. Make sure to gently fold in the cherries and avoid beating the batter for too long. For a lighter texture, try to ensure all the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Is this recipe suitable for those with egg allergies?
If you have an egg allergy, you can substitute each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the Cherry Cake with Pudding delicious and enjoyable!
Can I make this Cherry Cake with Pudding ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. Just remember to add the pudding topping shortly before serving for the freshest taste and texture!
Indulgent Cherry Cake with Pudding for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and 1 cup of whole milk. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in half of the fresh, pitted cherries into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cherries on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the cake is baking, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 1 cup of whole milk in a separate bowl until thickened.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the thick pudding mixture evenly over the top and cut into squares.
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