This Almond Maraschino Cherry Cake is one you’ll want to keep in your recipe collection. With a moist almond-flavored cake, sweet maraschino cherries folded throughout, and a light creamy topping, it’s the perfect dessert for potlucks, family dinners, holidays, and summer gatherings.
I made this cake recently for my family, and it quickly became a favorite. The almond flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries, creating a nostalgic bakery-style dessert that tastes far more impressive than the simple ingredient list suggests.
Best of all, it starts with a boxed cake mix, making it a reliable recipe even on busy days. A Soft and Creamy Cherry Dessert Everyone Loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy semi-homemade dessert
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for potlucks and parties
- Moist and tender cake texture
- Light, creamy pudding topping
- Delicious almond and cherry flavor combination
- Make-ahead friendly
Almond Maraschino Cherry Cake Recipe
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 14.25 Ounces White Cake Mix 1 box white cake mix, any brand
- 3 Large Eggs
- 1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil
- 3/4 Cup Buttermilk or milk
- 1/2 Cup Sour Cream or plain yogurt
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Almond Extract
- 1 Cup Maraschino Cherries drained and roughly chopped
For the Topping
- 3.4 Ounces Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix 1 box
- 1 1/2 Cups Milk
- 8 Ounces Whipped Topping 1 container, thawed
- 3/4 Cup Maraschino Cherries drained and roughly chopped
Instructions
How to Make Almond Maraschino Cherry Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Mix the Cake Batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, buttermilk, sour cream, and almond extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.14.25 Ounces White Cake Mix, 3 Large Eggs, 1/3 Cup Vegetable Oil, 3/4 Cup Buttermilk, 1/2 Cup Sour Cream, 1 1/2 Teaspoons Almond Extract
- Gently fold the chopped maraschino cherries into the batter.1 Cup Maraschino Cherries
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the topping.
- Make the Creamy Topping. In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened.3.4 Ounces Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix, 1 1/2 Cups Milk
- Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.8 Ounces Whipped Topping
- Assemble the Cake. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle the chopped maraschino cherries over the top.3/4 Cup Maraschino Cherries
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
Tips for Success
- Drain the cherries well before chopping to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
- For extra almond flavor, add an additional 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to the topping.
- Chill the cake for at least one hour before serving for cleaner slices.
Nutrition
Variations
Add Toasted Almonds
Sprinkle sliced toasted almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Make It Pink
Add a tablespoon or two of maraschino cherry juice to the topping for a light pink color.
Try a Different Pudding Flavor
Cheesecake or white chocolate instant pudding both pair wonderfully with the almond and cherry flavors.
Add Coconut
A sprinkle of sweetened shredded coconut adds a fun tropical twist.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. This cake is actually even better after chilling for a few hours. You can make it up to one day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes. Replace the whipped topping with about 3 cups of freshly whipped cream stabilized with a little powdered sugar.
Do I need to refrigerate this cake?
Yes. Because of the pudding and whipped topping, leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator.
Can I bake this in a different pan?
A 9 x 13-inch pan works best for the proper cake-to-topping ratio. You can also bake it as cupcakes, but the baking time will need to be reduced.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but they will create a different flavor profile. Maraschino cherries provide the classic sweet cherry flavor that complements the almond extract.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Because of the creamy topping, this cake should not be left at room temperature for extended periods.
Almond Maraschino Cherry Cake
This easy dessert starts with a white cake mix and is topped with a creamy vanilla pudding and whipped topping frosting. Moist, fluffy, and packed with sweet cherry flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
A simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines sweet cherries, almond flavor, and a light creamy topping in every bite.
My family loved this!