The Lemon Cherry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of indulgence. This cake combines the tangy brightness of lemon, the sweet and tart flavor of cherries, and the creamy richness of a velvety frosting. It’s a dessert that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, adorned with vibrant cranberries and aromatic sprigs of rosemary for a festive finish.

This cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a centerpiece for your table. The layers of soft, fluffy sponge are complemented by a smooth cream cheese frosting, while the homemade cherry jam adds a luscious burst of fruity goodness in every bite. The recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your preferences and can be tailored for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe provides detailed instructions to help you create a show-stopping cake that will impress your friends and family. Its timeless charm lies in its ability to bring together classic ingredients in a harmonious blend, creating a dessert that feels both nostalgic and modern.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 chicken eggs, separated
• 120g sugar
• 1 lemon, juiced (approximately 40ml)
• 30ml vegetable oil
• 120g flour
• 4g baking powder

For the Cream:

• 350g soft cream cheese
• 70g powdered sugar
• 200ml cream (33% fat)

For the Cherry Jam:

• 50ml water
• 15g corn starch
• 300g cherries
• 50g sugar

For Decoration:

• Several cranberries
• A few sprigs of rosemary

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Separate the Eggs: In two separate bowls, separate the egg whites from the yolks.
2. Whisk Egg Yolks: Beat the egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy. Add the lemon juice and vegetable oil, mixing until well incorporated.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the yolk mixture, ensuring no lumps remain.
4. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped whites into the batter in batches, using a spatula to preserve the airiness.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and lined round cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the sponge to cool completely before slicing it horizontally into two layers.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Combine Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream to soft peaks.
3. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Make the Cherry Jam

1. Cook the Cherries: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat until the cherries soften and release their juices.
2. Thicken the Jam: Dissolve the corn starch in a little water to make a slurry. Add it to the cherries, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Place the first sponge layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cherry jam over it, followed by a layer of cream cheese frosting. Repeat with the second sponge layer.
2. Frost the Cake: Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. Smooth it out for a polished look.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Arrange cranberries and sprigs of rosemary on top of the cake for a festive touch.
2. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Vitamin C: 15% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 10% of Daily Value

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Lemon Cherry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a timeless dessert because it brings together flavors and textures that have universal appeal. Lemon’s citrusy brightness, cherries’ fruity tang, and cream cheese’s velvety richness are classic ingredients that complement each other perfectly.

This cake’s versatility also adds to its enduring charm. It can be customized with different fruits, flavored creams, or even alternative decorations to suit various occasions. Its festive appearance makes it a stunning choice for holidays, while its delightful taste ensures it remains a favorite for everyday celebrations.

In a world of fleeting trends, the Lemon Cherry Cake stands as a reminder of the beauty of tradition and the joy of creating something special from simple ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for the jam?

Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just thaw them before cooking, and adjust the sugar if the cherries are already sweetened.

2. Can I substitute cream cheese?

Mascarpone is a great alternative if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. Can I make the cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the sponge and prepare the jam a day ahead. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.

4. How can I make the recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace regular flour.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Cherry Cake

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps ensure the batter mixes evenly and the frosting whips up smoothly.
2. Do Not Overmix: Fold the egg whites gently into the batter to retain airiness.
3. Chill the Cream Before Whipping: Cold cream whips faster and holds its shape better.
4. Let the Sponge Cool Completely: Warm cake layers can melt the frosting, so patience is key!
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add a dash of almond extract to the jam for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The sponge layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before assembling the cake.

Conclusion

The Lemon Cherry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than a dessert—it’s an experience that embodies the joy of baking and the art of sharing something special with loved ones. Its combination of tangy, fruity, and creamy elements creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that leave a lasting impression.

This cake is perfect for creating memories, whether it’s a centerpiece at a holiday gathering or a heartfelt treat for a loved one’s birthday. Its festive decoration, featuring cranberries and rosemary, adds a seasonal charm that elevates it from delicious to unforgettable.

At its core, this cake celebrates the essence of homemade baking: the effort, care, and love poured into every layer. The timeless appeal of its ingredients ensures that it will continue to delight generations, making it a family favorite for years to come.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embrace the rewarding journey of creating this stunning cake. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe will remind you of the joy that comes from creating something truly delightful. Enjoy every bite!