Gluten Free Cherry Cake

This Gluten-Free Cherry Cake is buttery, moist, infused with vanilla and nutmeg, a generous layer of cherry pie filling and a cinnamon glaze. It’s the easiest cake perfect for brunch or dessert after dinner. Add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for that perfect bite of cake.

Gluten Free Cherry Cake With Two Layers

If you’re a fan of cherries, you are in for a treat. This cake has two layers and a topping. The first layer is a melt-in-your-mouth butter cake infused with vanilla, maple flavor, and nutmeg. The sweet cherry pie filling is topped with mounds of more cake and fresh cherries. This dessert is shockingly delicious!

Gluten Free Cherry Cake Recipe Details

The gluten free cake batter itself is simple and pretty basic. It has flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. The difference is the infusion of warming nutmeg, vanilla, and maple flavor. 

But then the cake is not basic at all, especially when mixed with the sweet cherry pie filling. The nutmeg, vanilla, and maple flavors add an unexpected richness and warmth to the cake and compliment the cherry layer. You’re in for a treat. 

Once the cherry pie filling has been added, dollops of cake with fresh cherries go over the top. And for an extra layer of deliciousness, you can drizzle the cake with cinnamon glaze. The glaze is optional.

Special equipment you will need: (affiliate links) cherry pitter tool, mixer, 9-inch square pan or 9-inch springform pan, parchment paper

Things to know about fresh cherries

1. How do I store fresh cherries?

 Store fresh cherries in the refrigerator. Place them in a breathable container or a plastic bag with a few holes to allow for air circulation. Do not wash the cherries until ready to use them, as moisture can promote spoilage.

2. How long do fresh cherries last? 

Fresh cherries can last in the refrigerator for about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on their freshness when purchased. Inspect them regularly for any spoilage, such as mold or shriveling.

3. How do I pit cherries without a cherry pitter? 

If you don’t have a cherry pitter, use a sturdy straw or a small pastry tip to remove the pits. Alternatively, cut the cherries in half and remove the pits with your fingers or a small knife.

4. Can I freeze fresh cherries? 

Yes, you can freeze fresh cherries. Wash and pit the cherries, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen cherries to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months.

6. Can I use fresh cherries in baking and cooking? 

Fresh cherries are great for baking muffins and cakes. They can also be used in savory dishes, such as salads and sauces, to add a touch of sweetness, tartness, and healthiness.

8. Are there different varieties of fresh cherries? 

Yes, there are various types of cherries, including sweet and sour (tart) cherries. Some popular sweet cherry varieties include Bing, Rainier, and Sweetheart, while Montmorency is a well-known tart cherry variety.

 9. Are cherries nutritious? 

Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.

Our favorite gluten free cherry recipes

Gluten Free Cherry and Chocolate Muffins

Gluten Free Skillet Cherry Breakfast Bread

Cinnamon Chia Pudding with Cherry Compote

Is homemade gluten free cherry pie filling better?

Homemade gluten free cherry pie filling takes minutes to cook, tastes fresh, you control the sweetness, no preservatives or artificial colors, and you know the cherry pie filling is gluten free. When cherries are in season, nothing beats homemade cherry pie filling. Make a big batch and freeze it for future use. 

This filling isn’t limited to just pies. Use it in turnovers, bars, tarts, cakes, or anything you would like to add some sweet and tart flavor.

how many cups of cherries do you need to make 1 cup of cherry pie filling

The volume of cherries will shrink as they cook down and release their juices, so you’ll need more fresh cherries to make a cup of cherry filling. It takes about 2 cups of fresh cherries to make 1 cup of cherry filling.

Keep in mind that this can vary depending on the juiciness of the cherries and how much they break down during the cooking process. It’s always a good idea to start with more cherries than you think you’ll need and adjust as you go.

Gluten-Free Cherry Pie Filling Recipe

• 5 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste, depending on the sweetness of the cherries)
• 1/4 cup tapioca flour
• 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash, pit, and halve them. If using frozen cherries, thaw them and drain any excess liquid.

Combine Ingredients: Combine the sugar and tapioca flour in a medium-sized saucepan. Mix well to ensure the cornstarch is evenly distributed.

Cook the Filling: Add the prepared cherries to the saucepan and stir gently to coat them with the sugar mixture. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to release juices and thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Flavorings: Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.

Cool and Use: Allow the cherry pie filling to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once cooled, you can use the filling in the recipe.

You can freeze the filling for future use in freezer-safe plastic bags or airtight containers. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing.

Don’t miss out on this gluten free cherry cake recipe!

This gluten-free cherry cake is one of the best additions to your summer fruit cake experience. Trust me, it’s buttery filled with cherries, making every bite mouthwatering. It’s hard to stop with just one piece – every bite makes you want another. This fruit dessert is a keeper!

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Many thanks!

Kristina xx