Cherry Almond Spring Delights

Name: Cherry Almond Spring Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/4 cup almond extract; 1 cup milk; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons almond milk; Chopped fresh cherries for garnish; Slivered almonds for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipes Festive

I absolutely adore making Cherry Almond Spring Delights each spring. The combination of fresh cherries and almond extract creates a vibrant flavor profile that captures the essence of the season. I love how simple it is to whip up these treats, and the delightful aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible. It’s a recipe that never fails to bring smiles, whether I'm serving them at a gathering or enjoying them during a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea. Let me share my secret for achieving that perfect almond-cherry fusion that makes these delights truly special.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:54:29.039Z

Each time cherry season arrives, I eagerly await the chance to create these Cherry Almond Spring Delights. The process kicks off with plump, ripe cherries, which I find at the local farmer’s market. I discovered that using fresh cherries rather than frozen ones gives the best texture and flavor, making every bite a little burst of spring.

As I blend the cherries with almond extract, I’m reminded of my grandmother's kitchen, where we would spend afternoons baking together. This recipe is a cherished way to keep her memory alive, and I love adding a touch of lemon zest for a hint of brightness that elevates the flavors. It’s the little details that transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant cherry flavor paired with aromatic almond essence
Lightly sweet and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for spring gatherings or as a delightful afternoon treat

Understanding Ingredients

The heart of Cherry Almond Spring Delights lies in the quality of your fresh cherries. Opt for firm, ripe cherries for the best flavor and texture, as overripe or mushy cherries can make the batter soggy. When chopping, aim for pieces that are about the size of a blueberry; this way, they distribute evenly throughout the cake, providing bursts of flavor with every bite. If cherries are out of season, you could substitute with frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to maintain the cake's texture.

Another crucial aspect of this recipe is the almond extract. The extract offers a delightful aromatic profile that complements the cherries beautifully. Quality matters, so choose a pure almond extract rather than imitation for a more authentic flavor. If you have nut allergies, consider replacing almond extract with vanilla extract—a lovely alternative that will still elevate the cake's profile without compromising on taste.

Baking Techniques

Proper mixing techniques significantly influence the cake's final texture. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a light, fluffy consistency—this generally takes about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer. This air incorporation is key to achieving a light and airy crumb. Additionally, when combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter, which could lead to a dense cake that doesn't rise as well.

Baking times can vary based on your oven's calibration. After the recommended 25 minutes, check for doneness using the toothpick method—insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If the edges begin to brown excessively, you can reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the remaining baking time to ensure even cooking without burning.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the delightful flavor combination.

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
1/4 cup almond extract
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Topping

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons almond milk
Chopped fresh cherries for garnish
Slivered almonds for garnish

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to make a delicious dessert that captures the essence of spring!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful baking experience.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs and almond extract, mixing well until combined.

Combine Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the chopped cherries and lemon zest.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Topping

While the cake cools, mix the powdered sugar and almond milk to create a smooth glaze.

Glaze and Garnish

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle with the glaze and top with fresh cherries and slivered almonds.

Let the cake sit for a few minutes before slicing into it. Enjoy your delightful creations!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Almond Spring Delights are wonderfully versatile in how they're served. For a delightful brunch treat, pair slices with whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh mint for added color and flavor. They can also be perfectly enjoyed on their own with a cup of tea, allowing you to savor the cherry and almond flavors at their best. I often serve them in small squares for easy handling during gatherings, making them an ideal finger food that impresses without the fuss.

For festive occasions, consider adding a touch of seasonal flair. Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the glazed cake or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the fluffy cake, creating a delightful dessert experience that’s perfect for warm spring days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These delights can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for busy spring days or gatherings. Once baked and cooled, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, you can wrap individual slices and freeze them for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before serving, as this helps retain moisture and flavor.

If you're planning to glaze the cake ahead of time, do so just before serving to maintain the topping's freshness and prevent it from soaking into the cake. If you find yourself with leftover glaze, it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and used to add a touch of sweetness to other desserts or breakfast items, like pancakes or waffles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh cherries work best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen cherries if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well.

→ How should I store leftover Cherry Almond Spring Delights?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the slices for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?

Yes, if you prefer a different flavor, you can use vanilla extract or even a hint of coconut extract for a unique twist.

→ What can I serve with these delights?

These are wonderful served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.