Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Name: Cherry Almond Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 9 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup pitted cherries, halved; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for cherries); Sliced almonds for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

I absolutely love baking this Cherry Almond Coffee Cake on lazy weekends. The combination of juicy cherries and nutty almond flavor is simply irresistible. As I whip it up, the delightful aroma fills my kitchen and leaves everyone curious about what's cooking. It's the perfect treat for a cozy brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee. Trust me, once you share this cake with friends and family, they'll be asking for the recipe and it will become a staple at your gatherings!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-13T17:10:18.766Z

This Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is a family favorite that never fails to impress. I remember the first time I made it, the kitchen was filled with the scent of buttery cake and sweet cherries. I experimented with different ingredients and settled on a blend of almond extract and chopped cherries for the perfect flavor balance. The hint of almond adds a unique twist that makes it stand out from your typical coffee cake.

One tip I've found makes all the difference is letting the cherries sit in a little bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking. If you want to elevate the cake even more, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy burst of cherries combined with rich almond flavor
Moist and tender crumb that's perfect with coffee or tea
A delightful dessert that’s easy to make and share

Mastering the Texture

The key to achieving that moist and tender crumb in your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake lies in the proper creaming of the butter and sugar. When you cream these together, aim for a light and fluffy texture, which takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a light cake and perfect rise during baking.

When mixing in your dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake due to gluten development. A few small lumps are perfectly fine. Remember, you want a harmonious blend of flavors with the cherries and almond essence emerging distinctly.

Enhancing the Flavor

Using quality almond extract can elevate the flavor profile of your cake remarkably. Opt for pure almond extract if possible, as it provides a richer, more authentic almond flavor compared to artificial versions. A little can go a long way, so even a slight adjustment can enhance the overall taste, making those cherry flavors pop beautifully.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cherry varieties. Fresh, tart cherries work wonderfully, but you can also use frozen or even canned cherries if you're short on time. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before tossing with flour; this prevents excess moisture from altering your cake's texture.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Cherry Almond Coffee Cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to three days at room temperature, covered to maintain moisture. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before serving.

For an upgraded serving suggestion, try pairing this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. You can also drizzle a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for a bit of additional sweetness and a glossy finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful Cherry Almond Coffee Cake:

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 cup pitted cherries, halved
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for cherries)
Sliced almonds for topping (optional)

Once you've gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavor

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, incorporating the almond extract until fully combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Prepare the Cherries

In a small bowl, toss the cherry halves with 2 tablespoons of flour to coat. Gently fold the cherries into the batter.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your delicious Cherry Almond Coffee Cake!

Enjoy your freshly baked coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. This adds warmth and compliments the cherries beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake sinks in the middle after baking, it could be due to underbaking or using too much leavening agent. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time, aiming for a toothpick that comes out clean when inserted into the center. If in doubt, err on the side of baking slightly longer until you achieve a golden brown top.

On the other hand, if your cake appears too dry, it might be overbaked. Keep an eye on those final moments in the oven, as cakes can continue cooking slightly after removal. Using an oven thermometer can also ensure your baking temperature is accurate, which is critical for success.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, swap the milk for almond milk or coconut milk, which will enhance the almond flavor even further. Likewise, using coconut oil instead of butter can provide a delightful twist while keeping the cake moist. Just ensure that any substitutes are melted and cooled before adding them to the batter.

For those avoiding gluten, substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work well, but be aware that the texture might differ slightly. Add a bit of baking soda to boost the rise if using gluten-free flour, as it can often create a denser cake.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you wish to scale up this recipe for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger cake pan, such as a 9x13 inch pan. Keep in mind that the baking time may increase, so regularly check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center at the 30-minute mark, then adjust as necessary.

Alternatively, if you want a smaller cake, you can halve the recipe and bake in a smaller 6-inch round pan. This creates a perfect treat for intimate gatherings but does require watching the bake time closely as the smaller cake may cook faster.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries; just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the almond extract?

Absolutely! If you prefer another flavor, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.