Sure! Here’s a rich and detailed recipe for Dutch Cherry Cake including a heartwarming introduction, history, ingredients, method, and more — perfect for food lovers!
Dutch Cherry Cake Recipe
“A sweet journey through Dutch tradition with every cherry-filled bite.”
Introduction
Dutch Cherry Cake, also known as Kersen Cake, is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with a rich, buttery sponge. Popular across the Netherlands, it’s a cake that graces tables during birthdays, holidays, and special family gatherings. Its beauty lies not only in its flavor but in its simplicity and tradition. Whether topped with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or served plain, it’s a dish loved by generations.
History of the Dutch Cherry Cake
The origins of Dutch Cherry Cake can be traced back to the 18th century, when cherries were abundant in the summer orchards of the Netherlands. Dutch bakers, known for their love of fruit-infused desserts, began incorporating these fresh, tart fruits into butter cakes. Over time, recipes evolved, blending the fruity freshness of cherries with the richness of almond flour and vanilla, producing the cherished cherry cake we enjoy today.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 200g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 200g caster sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 100g almond flour (optional for depth)
- 200g pitted cherries (fresh or jarred, drained)
Optional Cream Topping:
- 250ml heavy cream
- 2 tbsp icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
To Decorate:
- Extra cherries
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Flaked almonds (optional)
Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4: Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and almond flour.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Step 5: Add Cherries
- Gently fold in the cherries — coat them in a little flour first to avoid sinking.
Step 6: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Once cool, dust with powdered sugar, or top with whipped cream and extra cherries.
Formation & Serving
Serve the Dutch Cherry Cake sliced, optionally with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee or black tea, making it a cozy afternoon treat or a charming dessert after dinner.
Conclusion
This Dutch Cherry Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of homely comfort and European elegance. It’s a recipe that bridges old-world charm with modern-day indulgence. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this cake brings a sweet slice of Dutch heritage to your table.
For the Lovers of Cake and Cherries
For those who love the blend of fruit and sponge, this cake is a dream come true. The natural tartness of cherries balances the rich cake, and the option to add cream or almonds lets you personalize it to perfection. Lovers of simple, nostalgic desserts will fall for this classic.
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