Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Begin adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, alternating between the two and starting and ending with flour.
- Carefully fold in the chopped cherries, chocolate chips, and walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and level the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake, consider slicing it into generous pieces and dusting the top with powdered sugar for a sweet presentation. Pair it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an indulgent touch. It also pairs nicely with a fruit compote or a simple cup of coffee for that perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
How to store
To keep your Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong its life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to three months. When reheating, slice it first and warm it gently in the microwave or a toaster oven to maintain its moist texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
- For an extra cherry punch, strain some cherry juice from the fresh or frozen cherries and drizzle it over the top after baking.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! Letting the cake cool completely helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You could swap cherries for raspberries or blueberries, or try using dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet. Adding a splash of almond extract can elevate the flavor profile and give it a lovely aromatic quality.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The prep time for this Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake is about 15-20 minutes, with a baking time of 60-70 minutes.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen pitted cherries work wonderfully for this recipe. Just ensure they’re chopped and drained if they’re thawed to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen cake?
To thaw frozen Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake, simply take it out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. For quicker thawing, you can also place it in the refrigerator overnight.
By following this guide, you’re in for a treat. This Cherry Garcia Loaf Cake won’t just satisfy your cravings but may also become a staple in your baking repertoire! Enjoy every slice!
