Shirley Temple Cake is a delightful dessert inspired by the classic Shirley Temple cocktail, featuring the flavors of cherries and lemon. This indulgent cake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a sweet treat with a hint of nostalgia.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups butter (softened)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons lemon extract
- 3/4 cup 7UP
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries (drained and juice reserved)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs to the mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Pour in lemon extract and 7UP, and beat until well combined.
- Gently fold in the drained maraschino cherries.
- Grease a bundt pan with shortening and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 1/2 hours or until the center is set.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it onto a serving dish.
- Using a skewer, poke holes all over the top of the cake.
- Slowly pour the reserved cherry juice over the cake, ensuring it soaks into the holes and spreads evenly.
- Let the cake cool completely.
Tips:
- Ensure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Be sure to drain the maraschino cherries well before folding them into the batter to prevent excess moisture.
- Grease and flour the bundt pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, reserve some cherry juice to add to the glaze.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting or running off.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Shirley Temple Cake, a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the beloved childhood beverage. With its moist texture and burst of cherry and lemon flavors, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering or celebration. Enjoy it topped with additional cherries for a festive touch!