Cherry Madeira Cake: A Delicious Recipe and Baking Guide

Cherry Madeira Cake: just the name conjures images of elegant afternoon teas and cozy gatherings. But this isn’t your average, dry fruitcake! Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, tender crumb studded with plump, juicy cherries, all infused with the subtle warmth of Madeira wine. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Madeira cake, originating from the island of Madeira, Portugal, has a fascinating history. It was initially created as the perfect accompaniment to the island’s famous fortified wine, Madeira. The cake’s simple, yet satisfying, flavor profile was designed to complement the rich, complex notes of the wine, creating a harmonious pairing that became a beloved tradition. Over time, variations emerged, and the addition of cherries elevated the cake to new heights of deliciousness.

What makes this Cherry Madeira Cake so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the cherries, the subtle tang of the Madeira wine, and the buttery richness of the cake itself create a symphony of sensations in your mouth. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, serve it as a delightful dessert after dinner, or bring it to your next potluck – it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. I find that the moistness of the cake keeps it fresh for days, making it a convenient treat to have on hand. So, are you ready to bake a slice of history and pure deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• For the Cherry Infusion:
• 1 cup dried cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup Madeira wine
• For the Cake:
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup reserved Madeira wine from cherry infusion (if not enough, top up with more Madeira)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
• For the Madeira Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons Madeira wine

Cherry Infusion:

First, we need to plump up those dried cherries with some delicious Madeira wine. This step is crucial because it adds a wonderful depth of flavor and moisture to the cake. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!

1. In a small saucepan, combine the dried cherries and 1/2 cup of Madeira wine.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cherries have plumped up and absorbed most of the wine. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove from heat and let the cherries cool completely in the remaining wine. This allows them to fully absorb the flavor.
5. Once cooled, drain the cherries, reserving the Madeira wine. We’ll use both the cherries and the wine in the cake. Make sure to measure out 1/2 cup of the reserved Madeira wine for the cake batter. If you don’t have enough, simply top it up with more Madeira wine.

Preparing the Cake Batter:

Now, let’s get started on the cake batter. This is where the magic happens! Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. This helps them combine smoothly and creates a light and airy cake.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use baking spray with flour for easy release.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, resulting in a cake that rises beautifully.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and the reserved 1/2 cup of Madeira wine. This mixture adds moisture and tanginess to the cake.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the cake dense.
7. Fold in the plumped cherries and chopped walnuts or almonds (if using). Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Baking the Cake:

Time to bake our masterpiece! Keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes to prevent it from burning. Every oven is different, so baking times may vary slightly.

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and allows it to cool evenly.

Preparing the Madeira Glaze:

While the cake is cooling, let’s whip up a simple yet elegant Madeira glaze. This glaze adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful sheen to the cake. It’s the perfect finishing touch!

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of Madeira wine until smooth. Add more Madeira wine, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the cake but thin enough to drizzle easily.

Assembling and Serving:

Now for the best part – putting it all together and enjoying our delicious Cherry Madeira Cake!

1. Once the cake is completely cool, place it on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the Madeira glaze evenly over the top of the cake. You can also spread it with a spatula for a more uniform look.
3. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the glaze to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut the cake neatly.
4. Serve and enjoy! This cake is delicious on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Success:

• Use good quality Madeira wine: The flavor of the Madeira wine will shine through in the cake, so it’s worth using a good quality one.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting and running off the cake.
• Store the cake properly: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Add other dried fruits: You can add other dried fruits to the cake, such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots.
• Use a different nut: You can use a different nut, such as pecans or macadamia nuts.
• Add spices: You can add spices to the cake, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves.
• Make it a bundt cake: Bake the batter in a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation.

Troubleshooting:

• Cake is dry: Make sure you are measuring the flour correctly. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Don’t pack the flour into the cup. Also, don’t overbake the cake.
• Cake is dense: Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the cake dense.
• Cake is not rising: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, make sure you are creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Glaze is too thick: Add more Madeira wine, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Glaze is too thin: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion:

This Cherry Madeira Cake isn’t just a cake; it’s a slice of sunshine, a burst of flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. From the first whiff of the almond extract to the last lingering taste of sweet cherry and rich madeira, this recipe is a journey for your taste buds. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone who loves baking, or simply enjoys a delicious treat with a cup of tea. The moist crumb, the delicate sweetness, and the subtle warmth of the madeira wine create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

But why is this particular Cherry Madeira Cake recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. It’s easy enough for a beginner baker to tackle, yet the results are impressive enough to serve at a special occasion. The madeira wine adds a depth of flavor that elevates it beyond your average cake, while the cherries provide a delightful burst of sweetness and a beautiful visual appeal. It’s a cake that’s both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for any time of day.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

This cake is absolutely divine on its own, but feel free to get creative! A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. For a more decadent treat, try serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of melted white chocolate would also be a fantastic addition.

Looking for variations? Consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch. You could also experiment with different types of dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, in place of some of the cherries. For a boozier version, soak the cherries in madeira wine overnight before adding them to the batter. If you’re not a fan of madeira, you can substitute it with sherry or even a strong black tea. Just remember that the madeira contributes a unique flavor profile, so the substitution will alter the final taste.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! Baking is all about having fun and creating something delicious.

Why You Should Bake This Cake Today

I know there are countless cake recipes out there, but I genuinely believe this Cherry Madeira Cake deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. It’s a classic for a reason, and this recipe is my personal take on it, perfected over years of baking. It’s the kind of cake that evokes memories of cozy afternoons and shared moments with loved ones. It’s the kind of cake that makes you feel good from the inside out.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake! I promise you won’t regret it. And when you do, please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how it turned out, what variations you tried, and what your family and friends thought. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or even send me an email. I’m always eager to hear from fellow bakers and see their creations.

Let’s Bake Together!

I truly hope you enjoy this Cherry Madeira Cake as much as I do. It’s a recipe that I’m incredibly proud of, and I’m excited to share it with you. Happy baking! And remember, the most important ingredient is always love. So, pour your heart into it, and I guarantee you’ll create something truly special. I can’t wait to hear about your baking adventures! Let’s make the world a sweeter place, one Cherry Madeira Cake at a time.

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