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Cherry coffee cake is one of those irresistible baked goods that blends the richness of cake with the brightness of cherries and the comforting crunch of crumb topping. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend brunch, a family breakfast, or just need a sweet companion to your morning coffee, this recipe hits all the right notes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best cherry coffee cake from scratch using fresh Bing cherries and a buttery crumble topping. You’ll learn how to prep your ingredients, bake it to perfection, and even tweak it to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Contents

1 Introduction to the Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe
- 1.1 What Makes Cherry Coffee Cake So Special?
- 1.2 When and Why You Should Make This Cake
2 Ingredients Breakdown for Cherry Coffee Cake
- 2.1 Key Ingredients for the Cake Layer
- 2.2 Crumb Topping Essentials and Their Purpose
3 Choosing and Preparing the Best Cherries
- 3.1 Why Fresh Bing Cherries Are Ideal
- 3.2 How to Properly Pit and Prep Cherries
4 Best Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe
5 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Cherry Coffee Cake
6 Baking the Cherry Coffee Cake to Perfection
- 6.1 Optimal Temperature and Time for Baking
- 6.2 How to Know When the Cake is Done
7 Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- 7.1 Best Ways to Serve Cherry Coffee Cake
- 7.2 Ideal Beverages and Add-Ons
8 Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
- 8.1 How to Store for Freshness
- 8.2 Tips on Freezing and Reheating Without Losing Texture
9 Conclusion

Introduction to the Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe

What Makes Cherry Coffee Cake So Special?

There’s something magical about cherry coffee cake. It’s not just another breakfast pastry, it’s a beautiful fusion of textures and flavors. The tender, moist cake base contrasts with juicy cherry bites and a golden, slightly crisp crumb topping. This trio makes it stand out among other coffee cakes.

Unlike dense loaf cakes, cherry coffee cake has a lightness to it, thanks to buttermilk and carefully balanced ingredients. The sweet-tart flavor of cherries adds a fresh twist that pairs beautifully with the warm spice of cinnamon in the crumble.

Whether you’re a baking pro or a weekend baker, this homemade cherry cake offers a satisfying experience from prep to first bite. Plus, it stores well, making it a great make-ahead option.

When and Why You Should Make This Cake

This recipe shines all year but truly peaks in cherry season, typically late spring through summer. If you’ve found yourself with a basket of fresh Bing cherries, this is the best way to use them.

Here’s why it’s worth making:

It’s simple yet impressive enough for guests.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Requires no fancy tools—just a springform pan and basic mixing bowls.
Stores and freezes beautifully for later enjoyment.
Great base recipe to modify with seasonal fruits.

Ingredients Breakdown for Cherry Coffee Cake

Key Ingredients for the Cake Layer

Creating a moist, flavorful cherry coffee cake starts with the right combination of pantry staples and a few fresh items. Let’s break down what each ingredient does so you can understand why this recipe works so well.

All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups)
Flour forms the structure of your cake. All-purpose flour provides the perfect balance of protein for a tender crumb without becoming dense or chewy.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda
These leavening agents help the cake rise, giving it that light and airy texture that makes each bite delightful. You’ll use ¾ teaspoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon baking soda for balance.

Salt (½ teaspoon)
Salt might seem small, but it plays a huge role in enhancing the overall flavor. It brings out the sweetness of the cherries and the richness of the butter.

Buttermilk (1 cup)
Buttermilk adds acidity to tenderize the crumb and creates a subtle tang that complements the sweet cherries beautifully. It also reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise.

Pure Vanilla Extract (1½ teaspoons)
Vanilla enhances the flavor profile and adds warmth to both the cake and the crumb topping.

Butter (10 tablespoons, room temperature)
Butter is the flavor powerhouse in this recipe. It’s creamed with sugar to incorporate air and give the cake a soft, fluffy structure. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.

Granulated Sugar (1¼ cups)
Sugar sweetens the cake and also assists in aeration during the creaming process.

Large Eggs (2, room temperature)
Eggs provide structure and moisture. They also bind the ingredients together, helping the batter hold its form during baking.

Fresh Bing Cherries (1½ lbs)
Fresh Bing cherries are the highlight of this recipe. Their naturally sweet, slightly tart flavor pops in every bite. Remove the pits and slice them in halves or quarters for an even distribution.

Crumb Topping Essentials and Their Purpose

Now let’s talk about the crunchy crown of this coffee cake—the buttery crumb topping that makes it so satisfying.

All-Purpose Flour (⅔ cup)
Used to give the crumb structure and a lightly crispy bite once baked.

Granulated Sugar (⅔ cup)
Adds sweetness and helps the crumb topping caramelize slightly in the oven.

Cinnamon (½ teaspoon)
A warm spice that pairs perfectly with cherries, bringing a cozy depth of flavor.

Salted Butter (5 tablespoons, melted)
Melted butter coats the dry ingredients and helps create those irresistible crumbles. Salted butter also adds a bit more flavor than unsalted.

Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon)
Adds extra aroma and ties the crumb topping flavor to the base cake.

Once mixed, this crumb mixture should be placed in the freezer while you prep the Cherry Coffee Cake batter. This helps maintain texture during baking.

Next, we’ll talk about the key steps to choosing and prepping your cherries to ensure they shine in every bite.

Choosing and Preparing the Best Cherries

Why Fresh Bing Cherries Are Ideal

When it comes to baking a cherry coffee cake that bursts with flavor, using fresh Bing cherries is your best bet. These deep red beauties are juicy, naturally sweet, and slightly tart—making them the perfect balance against a buttery, rich crumb cake.

Fresh Bing cherries also hold their texture well during baking. Unlike canned or overly soft cherries, they won’t turn mushy or disappear into the batter. Their firmness adds structure and texture to each bite.

Here’s why fresh cherries outshine the alternatives:

Flavor: Richer and more complex than canned or frozen.
Texture: They hold up well when baked and offer a pleasant chew.
Color: Their natural dark hue adds visual appeal.
Less Sugar: No syrup or artificial sweeteners to alter the recipe balance.

Of course, if you’re baking out of season, frozen cherries can work. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid extra moisture in the Cherry Coffee Cake.

How to Properly Pit and Prep Cherries

Proper preparation is key to making your cherry layer stand out. First, wash the cherries thoroughly in cold water. Then remove the stems and pits using a cherry pitter. If you don’t have one, a sturdy straw or even a chopstick can work in a pinch.

After pitting, slice each cherry in half or quarters. This ensures even distribution in the batter and helps the fruit bake evenly. Smaller pieces also allow the cherry juice to seep into the Cherry Coffee Cake slightly without overpowering the structure.

Helpful Tips:

Use gloves or an apron—fresh cherries can stain.
Place a bowl underneath while pitting to catch juice.
Discard any bruised or overripe cherries to avoid sogginess.

With your cherries perfectly prepped, you’re now ready to assemble the cake batter and crumb layers. Let’s dive into the baking steps next.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Cherry Coffee Cake

Preparing the Crumb Topping Like a Pro

The crumb topping isn’t just a decorative layer—it’s the crown of the Cherry Coffee Cake. When done right, it adds texture and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced crunch that pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Steps to Make It:

In a medium bowl, mix together ⅔ cup flour, ⅔ cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon.
Pour in 5 tablespoons melted salted butter and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
Stir until the mixture forms moist crumbs. Don’t overmix—it should stay clumpy.
Transfer the crumb mixture to the freezer while you make the cake batter. This helps the crumbs hold their shape and crisp during baking.

Mixing the Cake Batter to the Right Texture

Creating a soft, fluffy base starts with proper mixing. The trick is not to overwork the batter, especially once the flour is added.

Here’s How:

In a bowl, whisk together 2½ cups flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
In a separate small bowl, stir 1 cup buttermilk and 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat 10 tablespoons room-temperature butter with 1¼ cups sugar until light and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Now Combine Everything:

Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk mixture in two parts.
Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Mix until just incorporated—do not overmix.

This layering ensures the Cherry Coffee Cake turns out moist and tender every time.

Layering Cherries and Crumb for Maximum Flavor

This part is where the cherry magic begins. With your batter and topping ready, it’s time to assemble the layers in the springform pan.

Step-by-Step Assembly:

Grease and flour a 10-inch springform pan—even if it’s nonstick.
Pour the cake batter into the pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
Distribute the 1½ lbs of halved or quartered Bing cherries evenly over the batter.
Gently press the cherries just slightly into the surface.
Sprinkle the chilled crumb topping evenly across the entire top.

Now your cherry coffee cake is fully assembled and ready for the oven. In the next part, we’ll guide you through baking it to golden perfection.

Baking the Cherry Coffee Cake to Perfection

Optimal Temperature and Time for Baking

Once your cherry coffee cake is assembled, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. This part of the process is critical, as proper heat distribution ensures the center is fully cooked while the crumb topping stays crisp and golden.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
This temperature is ideal for evenly baking the dense batter without overbrowning the top too soon.

Place the springform pan in the center rack to allow even airflow around the cake. Bake the cake for 70 to 85 minutes, depending on your oven’s heat accuracy and the moisture in your cherries.

During the final 15 minutes of baking, check for doneness. If the crumb topping is browning too quickly but the center is still undercooked, loosely cover the cake with foil.

Signs your cake is ready:

Crumb topping is lightly golden and crisp.
The Cherry Coffee Cake edges pull slightly away from the pan.
A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

How to Know When the Cake is Done

Because this cherry cake has fresh fruit, moisture content can vary slightly, making it harder to judge doneness just by time. Use these simple tricks:

Use the toothpick test in multiple areas, especially near the center. A clean pick or one with soft crumbs means it’s done.
Check the color of the topping—it should be golden but not overly dark.
Gently press the top center of the cake. It should spring back lightly when touched.

Once baked, remove the Cherry Coffee cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. This allows the structure to firm up, making it easier to remove from the springform ring without cracking.

After 15 minutes, run a knife along the edge to loosen any stuck crumb and gently release the springform. Let the Cherry Coffee Cake finish cooling on a wire rack or serve warm for a more rustic presentation.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Ways to Serve Cherry Coffee Cake

This cherry coffee cake is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, celebrating a birthday, or just want a slice with your morning brew, it fits the bill.

Serve it warm for extra comfort. After the cake cools slightly, a warm slice releases the aromas of vanilla, cinnamon, and baked cherries—making it hard to resist. For extra indulgence, top it with a spoonful of whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla yogurt.

Cool and slice cleanly for a neater presentation. Letting the cake cool completely before slicing helps it hold its shape better, which is ideal for serving at potlucks or brunch tables.

Here are a few favorite ways to present it:

With a dusting of powdered sugar on top
Alongside a fruit salad for a vibrant breakfast
As a sweet treat in a lunchbox or picnic spread
As a dessert with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream

Ideal Beverages and Add-Ons

Although called a “coffee cake,” this sweet treat pairs well with a variety of beverages, not just coffee. It’s a lovely addition to any breakfast or afternoon snack break.

Top pairings include:

Fresh-brewed coffee – The classic match. A medium roast balances the cake’s sweetness.
Herbal teas – Chamomile, hibiscus, or mint teas offer gentle contrast.
Milk or oat milk – A great pairing for kids or anyone avoiding caffeine.
Sparkling water – Helps cleanse the palate between sweet bites.

And if you’re entertaining? Set up a simple coffee and cake bar with fresh fruit, creamers, and syrups so guests can customize their pairings.

By now, your cherry crumb cake should be fully baked, slightly cooled, and ready to serve. In the next section, we’ll explain how to store and reheat leftovers to keep them tasting just as good on day two—or three.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

How to Store for Freshness

Cherry coffee cake is best enjoyed fresh, but the good news is that it stores incredibly well for a few days without drying out—thanks to the moisture-rich cherries and buttermilk-based batter.

Short-Term Storage:

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
Place in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Pro Tip: If refrigerated, let the Cherry Coffee Cake sit out for 20 minutes before serving to bring it back to room temperature and enhance the flavor.

Tips on Freezing and Reheating Without Losing Texture

Yes, you can absolutely freeze this cherry cake, and it will taste just as amazing when thawed—if you do it right.

How to Freeze Cherry Coffee Cake:

Let the Cherry Coffee Cake cool fully.
Wrap the cake tightly in two layers—first in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag to prevent freezer burn.
Label with the date. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Freezing Individual Slices:
Prefer to freeze slices for easy snacking? Wrap each piece separately and store in a large freezer bag. This way, you can thaw exactly what you need without defrosting the whole cake.

How to Reheat:

For whole cakes, thaw overnight in the fridge and let come to room temp.
For slices, reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes for a crispy top.

Avoid These Mistakes:

Never freeze the Cherry Coffee Cake while it’s still warm—it traps moisture and ruins the texture.
Don’t microwave for too long, or the crumb topping may turn soggy.

Conclusion

Whether you’re baking for a special gathering, preparing a comforting breakfast treat, or simply making the most of cherry season, this cherry coffee cake recipe delivers every time. From its buttery crumb topping and tender cake base to the bursts of juicy Bing cherries, every bite offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

What makes this recipe stand out isn’t just its simplicity—it’s the rich, homemade taste that’s both nostalgic and gourmet. Plus, with easy customizations for different dietary needs, it’s a versatile option for any table.

Bake it once, and it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy it warm with coffee in the morning, serve it as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pack it as a sweet midday snack. However you slice it, this cherry coffee cake is a recipe worth sharing and repeating.

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Best Cherry Coffee Cake Recipe