If you’re in search of a dessert that feels like a hug on a plate, look no further than this Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of moist, tender white cake infused with almond extract and studded with juicy maraschino cherries and melty chocolate chips. The luscious cherry-studded frosting brings it all together for a dessert that is both nostalgic and full of unexpected bursts of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a celebration, a cozy family dinner, or just because, this cake never disappoints and will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to baking this charming Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role—chocolate chips add gooey richness, maraschino cherries provide bursts of sweetness and color, and the almond extract gives that special aromatic touch that makes the cake truly memorable.
- 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: These melt into pockets of rich chocolate throughout the cake for irresistible bites.
- 1 white cake mix (divided): Provides the fluffy, tender base—you’ll split it between the cake and frosting.
- 3/4 cup water: Keeps the batter moist and helps dissolve the cake mix.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and helps create an ultra-moist crumb.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Contributes to the cake’s tenderness and softness.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: The secret flavor booster that pairs wonderfully with cherries.
- 4 egg whites: Lighten the cake without adding heaviness from yolks.
- 20 ounces maraschino cherries (2 jars), divided: Half go in the batter for juicy pockets, the rest are chopped and folded into the frosting.
- 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature: The base of the creamy, dreamy frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it the perfect spreadable texture.
How to Make Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine half of the white cake mix with water, sour cream, vegetable oil, almond extract, and the egg whites. Stir until smooth, then gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and half of the drained maraschino cherries. These cherries will burst with flavor as they bake, keeping the cake delightfully moist and fruity.
Step 2: Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, making sure the cherries and chocolate chips are distributed well. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. It’s essential not to overbake to keep the texture tender. Once baked, let the cake cool completely before moving on to frosting it.
Step 3: Make the Cherry-Studded Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter with the remaining half of the white cake mix, powdered sugar, almond extract, and about half of the reserved cherry juice for extra cherry flavor. Once smooth and creamy, stir in the chopped maraschino cherries to add a vibrant burst of color and sweetness to the top of your cake.
Step 4: Frost and Finish
Using a spatula, spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake. The soft, fluffy frosting studded with cherries perfectly complements the moist cake underneath, creating a harmony of textures and tastes. Chill the cake slightly if you prefer firmer frosting before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes the simplest touches elevate a dessert beautifully. For this Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe, consider topping it with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or a few whole maraschino cherries placed artfully on top. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a snowy touch that makes the cake visually irresistible.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, adding a cool contrast to the rich, fruity flavors. If you want to serve it as part of a dessert spread, fresh berries or a fruit salad bring a fresh, tangy balance to the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake into a showstopper by cutting it into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a tiered dessert tray for parties. Alternatively, serve individual slices topped with a drizzle of cherry syrup or melted chocolate for an elegant finish. Wrapping small squares as party favors in parchment paper tied with twine can be a charming gesture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays moist and flavorful when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it—just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving so the flavors shine.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake, either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before slicing to preserve that moist texture and delicious flavor.
Reheating
Because it’s a sheet cake, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a warm slice, gently heat a portion in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This warms the chocolate chips and softens the frosting just slightly, making each bite even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but maraschino cherries provide both sweetness and moisture that fresh cherries may lack. If using fresh, consider adding a bit of sugar or cherry syrup to the frosting for that signature flavor.
Do I have to use almond extract?
While almond extract really enhances the cherry and chocolate flavors in this cake, you can substitute with vanilla extract if needed. The cake will still be delicious, just with a slightly different flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free white cake mix to make a gluten-free version of this Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe. Just make sure other ingredients, like the chocolate chips and powdered sugar, are also gluten-free certified.
Is it okay to use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, whole eggs can be used, although using only egg whites makes the cake lighter in texture while still maintaining moisture. Whole eggs may create a richer, slightly denser cake.
What’s the best way to prevent cherries from sinking to the bottom?
To help cherries stay suspended throughout the batter, toss them lightly in a little flour from the cake mix before folding them into the batter. This helps the cherries cling to the batter better during baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly delightful about the Cherry Garcia Sheet Cake Recipe that makes it so easy to fall in love with. From the moment you bake it to sharing it with friends and family, it brings joy in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a treasured favorite.
