Looking for a show-stopping dessert for your holiday table? This Cherry Christmas Cake is a festive favorite featuring light and airy sponge cake layers, sweet cherries in syrup, and a creamy whipped frosting. Topped with shaved chocolate and maraschino cherries, this cake is both stunning and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a holiday party, this easy-to-make cake will wow your guests. Ideal for anyone searching for Christmas cake recipes, holiday desserts, or the perfect cherry cake for celebrations, this recipe combines elegance and flavor in every bite.

This festive Cherry Christmas Cake combines the sweetness of cherries in syrup, a light and airy sponge cake, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Topped with chocolate shavings, maraschino cherries, and decorative holly leaves, it’s the perfect dessert to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Cherries in Syrup:

1/4 cup water
1 Tbsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
2 tsp cornstarch
4 cups (1 lb) frozen sweet cherries

For the Sponge Cake:

3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking powder

For the Frosting:

3/4 cup (6 oz) cold heavy whipping cream
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar

For Toppings and Decorations:

Shaved chocolate
Maraschino cherries
Green gel food coloring
Wilton 67 frosting tip and a 10″ Ateco piping bag

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cherries in Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine water, lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch. Place over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add the frozen cherries and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let the cherry mixture cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Sponge Cake

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan or springform pan with parchment paper (do not grease the pan).
In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the eggs on high speed for 1 minute until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating on high speed for 7-8 minutes until the batter forms a thick ribbon. (If using a hand mixer, add 2 more minutes to the mixing time.)
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Sift the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in two additions, gently folding with a spatula after each addition until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and springs back when lightly pressed. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a spatula around the edges to release the cake. Transfer to a wire rack, remove the parchment paper, and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a stand mixer, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form (about 2 minutes). Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
In the same mixer (no need to wash it), beat the softened cream cheese with sugar on high speed for 2 minutes until fluffy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and spreadable.
Reserve 1/4 cup of the frosting, tint it green with gel food coloring, and transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 67 tip for later use.

Step 4: Assemble the Cherry Christmas Cake

Place the cooled sponge cake on a serving platter and use a fork to poke holes all over the top. Spoon the cooled cherries and their syrup evenly over the cake and let it rest for 5 minutes to absorb the syrup.
Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake, covering the cherries. Sprinkle shaved chocolate over the frosting.
Pipe holly leaves onto the cake with the green-tinted frosting and garnish with maraschino cherries to complete the festive look.

Tips

Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for maximum volume when whipping.
Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Substitutions

Substitute raspberries or mixed berries for cherries for a fruity twist.
Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet for a richer flavor.
Swap maraschino cherries for fresh cranberries for a tart holiday touch.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sponge cake and cherries in syrup a day ahead. Assemble and frost just before serving for the best presentation.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Pit and halve fresh cherries, and follow the same instructions for making the syrup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherry Christmas Cake is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring a light sponge cake, juicy cherries, and creamy frosting. Its festive appearance, complete with holly decorations, makes it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. Easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season!