Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Indulge in the sweet and decadent flavors of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake. This delightful dessert combines the richness of chocolate, the sweetness of maraschino cherries, and the crunch of chopped pecans for a truly irresistible treat.

History

The origins of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake are a bit murky, but it is believed to have been a popular dessert in the mid-20th century. The combination of cherries, chocolate, and nuts was a favorite among home bakers looking to create a special treat for family gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1.75 cups cake flour
0.25 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
2 squares semisweet chocolate
5 oz (142 g) bottle maraschino cherries, sliced
0.5 cup butter, softened
1 cup sour milk
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
0.25 cup chopped pecans

Frosting

1.5 cups granulated sugar
0.33 cup water
1 tbsp white corn syrup
2 unbeaten egg whites
1 tsp vanilla

How to prepare

Sift together 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of flour, 0.5 tsp of salt, and 0.5 tsp of soda.
Melt 4 oz of chocolate in 0.25 cup of maraschino juice.
Add 0.5 cup of butter, 0.5 cup of milk, the melted chocolate, 1 egg, and 1 tsp of vanilla. Mix thoroughly.
Add 0.5 cup of cherries and 0.5 cup of nuts.
Dust two cake pans with a mixture of flour and chocolate.
Divide the batter between the two pans and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes.
Fill the bottom of a double boiler with water and bring it to a simmer.
Combine 1 cup of sugar, 0.25 cup of water, 0.25 cup of corn syrup, and 2 egg whites in the top of the double boiler.
Place the top portion of the double boiler over the bottom and beat the mixture with a rotary beater for 10 minutes or until peaks form.
Remove the double boiler from heat and blend in 1 tsp of vanilla.
Place one layer of the cooled cake onto a pedestal cake stand and cover it with frosting.
Place the other layer on top and anchor it with toothpicks.
Ice the cake using all the frosting.

Variations

Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the frosting for an extra burst of cherry flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for a decorative touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly grease and flour your cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in both the cake and frosting.

- Drain the maraschino cherries well before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Use a rotary beater to ensure the frosting reaches the desired consistency.

- Be sure to properly cream the butter and sugar for a light and fluffy cake texture.

- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to sour milk.

- Substitute gluten-free flour for cake flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.

- Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate for a richer chocolate flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The frosting can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the top of the cake with additional maraschino cherries and chopped nuts for a festive presentation. Dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of milk for a classic dessert pairing. For a special occasion, pair the cake with a glass of dessert wine or champagne.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake contains eggs, milk, and nuts.

Summary

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake is a deliciously sweet dessert that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, cherries, and nuts for a sweet and indulgent treat. With a rich and moist cake base and a fluffy frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a truly satisfying dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, filled with handwritten notes and clippings from magazines and newspapers. As I shuffled through the worn index cards, one caught my eye - Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake.

I remember the excitement that bubbled up inside me as I read through the ingredients and instructions. The combination of sweet cherries, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts sounded absolutely delicious. I couldn't wait to try it out and share it with my family.

The recipe was not my own creation, but rather a gift from a dear friend who had passed it down to me many years ago. She had learned to make the cake from her own grandmother, who had brought the recipe with her from the old country. The tradition of making this special cake had been passed down through generations, and now it was my turn to carry on the legacy.

I set to work gathering the necessary ingredients - flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cocoa powder, maraschino cherries, and chopped nuts. The kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of cherries and chocolate as I mixed and measured, following the instructions carefully.

As the cake baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I thought about all the times I had made this cake for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Each time, it brought joy and laughter to those who tasted it, just as it had for generations before me.

When the cake was finally done, I carefully removed it from the oven and let it cool on the countertop. The rich chocolate glaze glistened in the soft light, and the cherries peeked out from beneath the surface, tempting me with their sweet tartness.

I couldn't resist taking a small slice and savoring the flavors that had brought me so much joy over the years. The cake was moist and tender, with the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. It was a masterpiece, a true testament to the love and care that had gone into making it.

As I sat at the kitchen table, enjoying my slice of cake, I thought about all the memories that were tied to this recipe. From the first time I had made it with my friend, to the countless times I had shared it with my family, each bite was a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring.

I knew that this recipe would continue to hold a special place in my heart for years to come. It was more than just a cake - it was a symbol of tradition, family, and the joy of sharing something delicious with those you love.

And as I finished my slice and wiped the last bit of chocolate from my lips, I knew that this recipe would be one that I would pass down to my own grandchildren, so that they too could experience the magic of Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Nut Cake.