Cherry Coffee Cake – Soft, Buttery & Perfectly Fruity Breakfast Cake

This cherry coffee cake is soft, moist, and filled with sweet cherry flavor in every bite. Topped with a buttery crumb layer and optional glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat with coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and moist texture
• Sweet cherry flavor throughout
• Buttery crumb topping
• Easy one-pan cake
• Perfect for brunch or breakfast
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Great for sharing
• Works with fresh or canned cherries
• Make-ahead friendly
• Comforting homemade flavor

Ingredients

Cake Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)

Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Optional Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing until smooth.
6. Gently fold in cherries.
7. Pour batter into prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. To make crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly.
9. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over batter.
10. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and set in the center.
11. Let cool slightly before slicing.
12. Mix glaze ingredients (if using) and drizzle over cooled cake.

Tips & Variations

• Use sour cherries for a tart flavor
• Add almond extract for bakery-style taste
• Mix in white chocolate chips
• Use frozen cherries (do not thaw first)
• Add lemon zest for brightness
• Skip glaze for a less sweet version
• Bake in a round or square pan
• Add chopped nuts to crumb topping
• Serve warm with ice cream
• Make muffins instead of cake

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store covered at room temperature up to 2 days
• Refrigerate up to 5 days
• Freeze up to 2 months
• Warm before serving for best texture

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Breakfast or brunch centerpiece
• Coffee or tea pairing
• Holiday dessert table
• Afternoon snack
• Potluck favorite
• Weekend baking treat
• Dessert with whipped cream
• Served warm with ice cream
• Picnic dessert
• Brunch buffet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, just drain them well before using.

Why is my coffee cake dry?

It may have been overbaked or needed more moisture from fruit.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Can I skip the crumb topping?

Yes, but it adds classic coffee cake texture.

Ready to Make It?

This cherry coffee cake is soft, buttery, and full of sweet cherry flavor, making it a perfect cozy bake for any time of day.

You Might Also Like

• Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze – Sweet Fruity Dessert.
• Rustic Cherry Tart – Classic Fruit Bake.
• Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars – Sweet & Tangy Treat.
• S’mores Brownies – Rich Chocolate Dessert.

Print