Remember the pink-speckled cake from your childhood? Yep, we’re talking about cherry chip cake. This retro dessert is full of flavor, fun, and that unmistakable burst of cherry in every bite. While it may have been a staple at birthday parties in the past, cherry chip cake is having a major moment again—and we are so here for it.
If you’ve never tried cherry cake, or you’re ready to bake up a storm and bring it back into your life, let’s dive into everything you need to know. From what it is, to how to make it from scratch, to variations and frosting pairings—we’ve got you covered.
What is Cherry Chip Cake?
Cherry chip cake is a soft, moist white or vanilla cake loaded with bits of maraschino cherries (aka the “chips”). These tiny cherry chunks create pink flecks throughout the cake and add little pockets of sweet-tart flavor.
Unlike cherry pie or black forest cake, cherry chip focuses on the subtle, nostalgic sweetness of maraschino cherries rather than fresh or tart ones. The result is light, fluffy, and fun—with a little retro flair.
Why Is Cherry Chip Cake So Popular Again?
Great question. Here’s why this old-school favorite is making a comeback:
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Nostalgia: Many people grew up on the boxed version and are craving a slice of their childhood.
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Unique Flavor: It’s sweet, slightly tangy, and not something you see every day.
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Instagram-Worthy: Those cute pink specks are just begging for a photo op.
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It’s Versatile: You can bake it as a sheet cake, layer cake, cupcakes—or even cake pops.
Boxed vs. Homemade Cherry Chip Cake
For years, brands like Betty Crocker sold boxed chip cake mix. And while that version is still a go-to for many, it’s not always easy to find anymore. Luckily, homemade versions are just as good—if not better!
Making it from scratch allows you to:
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Use fresh ingredients
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Control sweetness
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Add real maraschino cherries
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Customize it however you like
Let’s take a look at a super simple homemade recipe next.
Homemade Cherry Chip Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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4 large egg whites
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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3/4 cup milk
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1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
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3/4 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
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In a bowl, cream butter and sugar together until fluffy.
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Add egg whites and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
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In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk/cherry juice into the wet mixture. Start and end with dry ingredients.
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Gently fold in chopped cherries.
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Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes.
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Let the cakes cool before frosting.
Frosting Ideas for Cherry Chip Cake
This cake pairs beautifully with several frosting options:
1. Cherry Buttercream
Amp up the cherry flavor by using cherry juice instead of milk in your buttercream.
2. Vanilla Whipped Frosting
A light, fluffy frosting lets the cherry flavor shine.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting
If you want a bit of tang to balance the sweetness, this is your go-to.
Fun Variations to Try
Cherry Chip Cupcakes
Perfect for parties! Just pour the batter into cupcake tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Cherry Chip Cake Pops
Crumbled cake + frosting = adorable little cake bites on sticks.
Chocolate Cherry Chip Cake
Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a cherry-chocolate combo that’s hard to resist.
Tips for the Best Cherry Chip Cake
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Use paper towels to blot excess juice from the cherries before chopping. Too much moisture can affect the cake texture.
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Chop cherries finely so they distribute evenly and don’t sink to the bottom.
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Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
How to Store Cherry Chip Cake
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At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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In the fridge: Keeps well for 4–5 days, especially if frosted with cream cheese or whipped frosting.
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In the freezer: Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw and frost when ready.
Final Thoughts
Cherry chip cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a throwback, a celebration, and a delightful surprise all rolled into one. Whether you’re whipping it up for a birthday, a potluck, or just because it’s Tuesday, this cake brings smiles with every bite.
So, if you’ve never tried it, now’s your chance. And if it’s been a while since your last slice, well—what are you waiting for? Let’s bring chip cake back in style.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Technically yes, but maraschino cherries give that classic pink color and signature flavor.
2. Is cherry chip cake the same as cherry cake?
Not quite. chip cake has chopped cherries (chips) mixed in, while cherry cake may use puree or whole cherries.
3. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
4. Do I need to use food coloring to make it pink?
Not usually—maraschino cherry juice adds a natural pink hue.
5. Where can I find cherry chip mix?
Check larger grocery stores or online. But if you can’t find it, homemade is always a great option.
