Easy Cherry Sponge Cake Recipe (Soft & Fluffy Cherry Dessert)
Cradle of Nutrition
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A soft, fluffy sponge cake filled with juicy cherries is one of the simplest ways to bring seasonal baking into your kitchen. This cherry sponge cake recipe combines light vanilla sponge with bursts of fruit, creating a dessert that feels both comforting and fresh at the same time.
Perfect for summer baking, afternoon tea, or a light homemade dessert, this recipe is easy to prepare and works beautifully with either fresh or frozen cherries. If you enjoy simple, fruit-based bakes, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
For more classic homemade baking ideas, you might also enjoy our Classic Carrot Cake, or try something indulgent like Belgian Waffles. If you prefer a fruity twist, our Cranberry Pie is another perfect seasonal dessert to explore.
This cherry sponge cake recipe is beginner-friendly, quick to prepare, and works with both fresh and frozen cherries.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Sponge Cake Recipe
- Soft, fluffy sponge texture
- Juicy cherries in every bite
- Easy homemade dessert
- Perfect for summer baking
- Works with fresh or frozen cherries
- Great for breakfast, dessert, or tea time
Ingredients for Cherry Sponge Cake
- 2 cups cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Cherry Sponge Cake (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Step 1: Prepare the oven
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish lightly.
Step 2: Whisk eggs and sugar
In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale.
Step 3: Add wet ingredients
Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Add dry ingredients
Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble the cake
Pour batter into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 6: Add cherries
Evenly distribute cherries on top of the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden and set in the center.
Step 8: Cool and serve
Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This easy cherry sponge cake is delicious in many ways:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Serve with whipped cream
- Add vanilla ice cream
- Enjoy warm with yogurt
- Serve as a breakfast fruit cake
Toddler-Friendly Cherry Cake Version
This recipe can easily be adapted for toddlers and children:
- Reduce sugar by 30–50%
- Ensure cherries are fully pitted
- Cut into small soft pieces
- Serve with plain yogurt
- Avoid heavy toppings for younger children
Tips for the Best Cherry Sponge Cake
- Do not overmix the batter (keeps it fluffy)
- Use ripe cherries for best flavor
- Frozen cherries work without thawing fully
- Serve slightly warm for best texture
- Add lemon zest for extra freshness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly. No need to fully thaw them before baking.
Why is my sponge cake not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can remove air. Fold ingredients gently.
Can I make this cherry cake less sweet?
Yes, reduce sugar by 30–50% depending on taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Is this cherry sponge cake suitable for breakfast?
Yes, it is light enough to enjoy as a breakfast cake or snack.

Easy Cherry Sponge Cake Recipe (Soft & Fluffy Cherry Dessert)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the ovenPreheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish lightly.
- Whisk eggs and sugarIn a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale.
- Add wet ingredientsAdd milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Add dry ingredientsSift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined.
- Assemble the cakePour batter into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add cherriesEvenly distribute cherries on top of the batter.
- BakeBake for 35–40 minutes or until golden and set in the center.
- Cool and serveLet cool slightly before slicing and serving.