If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies both sweetness and sophistication, look no further than German Cherry Cake, also known as Cherry Custard Pie. With its delicate custard filling cradling tart cherries in a buttery crust, this dessert is the perfect blend of creamy, flavorful, and juicy. Did you know that this delightful cake hails from the enchanting countryside of Germany, where cherries are abundant and celebrated? As a child, I remember my grandmother baking this cake during summer cherry harvests, filling our home with an irresistible aroma that truly made our hearts sing.

This show-stopping dessert is simple enough for a beginner but impressive enough to delight your family and friends at any gathering. What makes it even better is that it takes just about an hour to prepare! If you’re a fan of another classic dessert, like our rich Chocolate Lava Cake, then you’ll definitely want to explore this gem of a recipe. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your loved ones with this deliciously easy German Cherry Cake.

What is German Cherry Cake?

So, you might be wondering, what’s in a name? German Cherry Cake sounds enticing, doesn’t it? But why ‘cherry cake’? Picture this: summer days, bright red cherries glistening under the sun, ready to take center stage in a sweet, creamy pie. The name evokes images of family picnics and quaint bakeries—who wouldn’t want a slice? They say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I can confirm that German Cherry Cake is a foolproof way to enchant anyone. Are you ready to revel in the celebratory flavors of this scrumptious treat? Let’s bring a slice of Germany into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This German Cherry Cake

There are countless reasons to adore German Cherry Cake, but let’s focus on three key highlights. First, the rich custard filling combined with the sweet-tart cherries creates a flavor sensation that dances on your palate. Second, making this dessert at home is budget-friendly—there’s no need to splurge at the bakery when you can whip up this gem with pantry staples! Finally, you can customize it to your heart’s content by experimenting with toppings like whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

If you’re a fan of fruit-filled desserts, you might also want to check out our berry-rich Mixed Berry Crisp that boasts similar textures and flavors. But for now, let’s put on our aprons and prepare to dive into a hands-on culinary adventure with this delicious German Cherry Cake!

How to Make German Cherry Cake

Quick Overview

Creating German Cherry Cake is a breeze! In just about an hour, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The standout feature of this cake is its creamy custard combined with juicy cherries, all enveloped in a flaky crust. Perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat, you’ll soon find that it’s a delightful way to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients for German Cherry Cake

To make this delectable dessert, gather the following ingredients:

1 pre-made pie crust
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Pie Crust: Place your pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and poke a few holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash, pit, and halve them. If using frozen, make sure they’re thawed and drained.
Combine Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
Layer the Cherries: Evenly distribute the cherries in the prepared pie crust.
Pour the Custard: Gently pour the custard mixture over the cherries, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack. Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream.

What to Serve German Cherry Cake With

German Cherry Cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a well-rounded meal, serve this cake alongside a fresh garden salad or light soup, followed by a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea. This combination will brighten up any meal and create a delightful dining experience for your guests.

Top Tips for Perfecting German Cherry Cake

Cherry Selection: Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they’re well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Custard Consistency: To achieve a creamy and smooth custard, whisk until all ingredients are well combined, with no lumps.
Crust Protection: If your pie crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil during baking to prevent burning.
Serving Variations: For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for added warmth.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover German Cherry Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, where it can last for up to two months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it cold or warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature.

Now that you have all the insights and steps to create a fantastic German Cherry Cake, why not give it a try? Your kitchen will transform into a delightful bakery, and the whole family will be enchanted by the sweet and creamy flavors. Happy baking!