Russian Cherry Layer Cake

This Russian Cherry Layer Cake is an elegant and delightful dessert that deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. The combination of rich layers, creamy filling, and luscious cherry topping makes this cake a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

With the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness from the cherries, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious treat!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There are countless reasons to add this Russian Cherry Layer Cake to your baking rotation. First and foremost, it offers a unique twist on traditional cake recipes. The use of cherry pie filling adds a burst of flavor and moisture that complements the light and airy layers.

Additionally, the cake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it at various occasions, from casual family gatherings to formal celebrations. It’s a visually stunning dessert that can be decorated to match any theme. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start baking, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to gather:

15 large eggs, whites and yolks separated, at room temperature
1 and 1/2 cups sugar
1 and 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
21 oz country cherry pie filling/topping
1 and 3/4 cups cold water
1 Tbsp sugar
1 can cooked sweetened condensed milk, or dulce de leche
3 cups cold heavy whipping cream
Chocolate shavings and cordial cherries for decoration (optional)

Prep & Cook Tools

Make sure you have the following tools ready for baking:

Mixing bowls – For separating eggs and mixing ingredients.
Electric mixer – Essential for achieving fluffy egg whites and cream.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to successful baking.
9-inch round cake pans – For baking the cake layers.
Offset spatula – Great for spreading frosting evenly.
Cooling racks – To cool the cake layers properly.

Cook Russian Cherry Layer Cake Like This

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and continue to beat until glossy and stiff. In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites, being careful not to deflate the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto cooling racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy whipping cream with the sweetened condensed milk. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of cherry pie filling over the top. Then, add a layer of the whipped cream filling on top of the cherries.

Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process. Finish with the third cake layer on top.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Spread the remaining whipped cream filling over the top and sides of the cake. For a touch of elegance, garnish with chocolate shavings and cordial cherries. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Substitutions by Diet

If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, consider these substitutions:

Egg substitute: Use flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.
Gluten-free: Substitute unbleached all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
Lower sugar: Opt for a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar amount in the recipe.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while making your Russian Cherry Layer Cake, here are some tips to help you out:

Cake layers sinking: Ensure that the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks and that you fold them gently into the batter.
Whipped cream not thickening: Make sure the cream is very cold before whipping and that you are using heavy whipping cream.
Cherry filling oozing out: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent melting.
Too sweet: Adjust the amount of sugar in the cream filling or opt for a tart cherry filling for balance.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To keep your Russian Cherry Layer Cake fresh, follow these guidelines:

Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm cake, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Common Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes! You can use fresh cherries; however, they will need to be cooked down with sugar to create a filling-like consistency similar to pie filling.

How can I make this cake ahead of time?

You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Assemble the cake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You can use homemade sweetened condensed milk or a dairy-free alternative, like coconut milk mixed with sugar, to achieve a similar consistency and sweetness.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the tips and steps to create your stunning Russian Cherry Layer Cake, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let your creativity shine through each layer. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy every slice of this delightful dessert and share it with those you love!