Mulled Wine Cherry Crumble Cake is the perfect dessert for cozy winter evenings, family gatherings, or festive holiday celebrations. Picture this: a warm, spiced cake layered with luscious cherry topping and topped with buttery, crumbly streusel. It merges the comforting flavors of mulled wine and cherries in a delightful treat that’s just as impressive as it is comforting. As the flavors meld, this cake evokes memories of holiday cheer, making it a truly special addition to your dessert repertoire.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings warmth to any occasion. Here are a few reasons why you should whip up this Mulled Wine Cherry Crumble Cake at home:
- Crowd-pleaser: With its combination of tart cherries, aromatic spices, and a crunchy crumble topping, this cake is sure to impress your guests, young and old alike.
- Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a winter celebration, a holiday party, or simply a cozy night in, this cake fits the bill for any festive occasion.
- Easy to make: Despite its show-stopping appearance, it’s straightforward enough for even novice bakers to tackle.
- Budget-friendly: The ingredients are simple and inexpensive, making it accessible for anyone looking to create a memorable dessert without breaking the bank.
"This cake was a hit during our holiday dinner! The flavors of mulled wine and cherries complemented each other beautifully. I loved how the crumble topping added a delightful crunch!" – Sarah K.
The cooking process explained
Creating this Mulled Wine Cherry Crumble Cake involves a few straightforward steps. You’ll begin with a rich and fluffy base, layer on a tangy cherry filling, and then finish it off with a delicious crumbly topping. Every bite offers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced baker; this recipe is easy to follow and results in a stunning dessert that tastes much more complex than it actually is.
What you’ll need
To whip up this delightful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 125 g butter, softened and in pieces
- 1/2 ampoule bitter almond oil
- 150 g flour
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 jar sour cherries, 350 g drained weight
- 70 g sugar
- 125 ml mulled wine
- 20 g corn starch
- 40 g butter, softened and in pieces
- 50 g marzipan, cut into small pieces
- 75 g flour
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
- A pinch of salt
Feel free to experiment with other types of stone fruits if cherries aren’t available!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven: Preheat to 180 °C (356 °F) in a conventional oven (top/bottom heat).
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until frothy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the softened butter and bitter almond oil, mixing until smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Bake the base: Line a 24 cm springform pan with parchment paper and spread the batter evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Prepare the cherry topping: Drain the sour cherries and reserve the juice. In a saucepan, bring 150 ml of the cherry juice, 20 g of sugar, and the mulled wine to a boil. Mix the corn starch with a bit of the reserved cherry juice until smooth, then add it to the boiling mixture. Stir in the cherries and let cool.
- Make the streusel: Combine the butter, marzipan, flour, 50 g sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Use your fingers to work the mixture into crumbs.
- Assemble and bake again: Remove the pre-baked cake from the oven and spread the cherries evenly on top. Sprinkle the streusel mixture generously over the cherries. Return to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Mulled Wine Cherry Crumble Cake shines on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle it with a warm cherry sauce or dust it lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair it with a glass of mulled wine or your favorite hot beverage, and you have a comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings.
Storage and reheating tips
To maintain the freshness of your cake, allow it to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge, where it can last for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze slices for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
- Quality counts: Use high-quality spices, as they make a significant difference in flavor.
- Marzipan magic: If you’re not a fan of marzipan, you can easily omit it or substitute it with finely chopped nuts for added texture.
- Let it cool: For the best results, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You could use different fruit combinations, such as blueberries or pears, for a unique take. For spice enthusiasts, try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, swap the flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring to adjust the baking powder accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this cake?
Preparation takes about 30 minutes, and baking time is around 45 minutes in total.
What can I use instead of mulled wine?
You can substitute mulled wine with a non-alcoholic spiced apple cider for a family-friendly version.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake keeps well, making it a great option for preparing in advance for parties.
By transforming your special occasions into sweet memories with this Mulled Wine Cherry Crumble Cake, you’ll create delightful moments that your family and friends will cherish for years to come. Enjoy every bite!
