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When the first hints of spring start to bloom, there’s a special joy in baking that fills the air with warmth and sweetness. One afternoon, while the scent of blooming flowers wafted through my open kitchen window, I decided to whip up a batch of Cherry Almond Cupcakes that would be as delightful to the taste buds as they were to the nose. The combination of luscious cherries and rich almond extract creates a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting—an ideal antidote to the monotony of fast food.

These cupcakes are not just a treat; they’re a celebration! Light and fluffy with a tender crumb, they invite you to indulge in a little slice of happiness. The best part? You can whip them up in just 30 minutes, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny afternoon tea or a cozy gathering with friends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to bring smiles all around!

Why Cherry Almond Cupcakes Are Irresistible?

Delightful flavors await you in every bite with the perfect blend of sweet cherries and nutty almond extract. Quick and easy, these cupcakes come together in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for anyone short on time. They please crowds and are sure to impress guests, while also satisfying your cravings at home. Versatile toppings, like crushed almonds or cherries, allow you to customize them to your taste. Waiting to indulge? With a fluffy texture and irresistible frosting, why not treat yourself to these heavenly cupcakes?

Cherry Almond Cupcake Ingredients

For the Cupcake Batter
• 1 cup sugar – Sweetness is key to making these Cherry Almond Cupcakes delectable.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides richness for a moist and tender cupcake.
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with warmth.
• 1 1/2 tsp almond extract – Adds that signature nutty flavor which complements the cherries beautifully.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – A must-have base for your cupcake batter.
• 2/3 cup cake flour – Ensures a light and airy texture that melts in your mouth.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder – Promotes the perfect rise for fluffy cupcakes.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda – Works in tandem with the baking powder for that extra lift.
• 3/4 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 3/4 cup buttermilk plus 2 tbsp – Keeps the batter moist and adds a slight tang.
• 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice – Infuses a delightful cherry flavor into the batter.
• 8 maraschino cherries, finely chopped – Chunks of cherry add texture and bursts of flavor.
• 3 egg whites – Ensure lightness and give the cupcakes a delightful structure.

For the Frosting
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Creates a creamy and smooth frosting.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla rounds out the frosting’s flavor.
• 1 tsp almond extract – Ties in the flavors for a cohesive taste experience.
• Pinch salt – Just a touch enhances all the flavors in the frosting.
• 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream – Adds a velvety texture to your frosting.
• 3 1/2-4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold its shape.

These ingredients combine beautifully to create a cupcake that’s more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of joy, just waiting to be enjoyed!

How to Make Cherry Almond Cupcakes

Preheat the oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect for baking your cupcakes to a fluffy finish. Line two standard cupcake pans with 16 liners and set aside, ready for deliciousness!
Cream the butter and sugar in a stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should look pale and airy; then add the vanilla and almond extracts for that mouthwatering aroma.
Whisk together the all-purpose and cake flours, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix is the foundation for your cupcakes, ensuring the perfect rise and texture.
Mix the buttermilk, cherry juice, and chopped cherries in a glass measuring cup. This mixture adds a lovely moistness and flavor that makes these cupcakes unique.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients by alternating them in the mixer on low speed. Mix until the batter is smooth but don’t overmix—lumps are welcome!
Beat the egg whites in a separate bowl with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. This is key for a light texture, so take your time. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, adding airiness.
Scoop the batter into the prepared liners, filling them ¾ full. Place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they spring back when touched—a sign that they’re perfectly done.
Cool the cupcakes after baking for 5 minutes in the pans, then transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely (about 25 minutes) before frosting—this step is crucial!
Make the frosting while the cupcakes cool. Beat the room-temperature butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt in a stand mixer until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the heavy cream and powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, until the frosting is soft yet firm enough to hold.
Beat the frosting for another 3 minutes. If it feels too thick, add a splash more cream and beat for an extra 30 seconds to achieve that dreamy texture.
Frost your cooled cupcakes by piping or spreading the frosting on top. Decorate with crushed almonds or cherries for a touch of flair if desired!

Optional: Sprinkle extra crushed almonds on top for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cherry Almond Cupcake Variations

Embrace your creativity and customize these delightful cupcakes to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a tasty alternative. These adjustments ensure everyone can enjoy a treat without compromising on flavor!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of buttermilk and dairy-free butter for the frosting. You won’t miss the creaminess—in fact, you may discover a new favorite!
Extra Cherry Kick: Fold in a handful of fresh or frozen cherries for bursts of juicy flavor throughout. The result is an amazing contrast to the almond notes that sings with freshness.
Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a delightful chocolate-cherry experience. The chocolate teams up beautifully with cherries and adds a unique twist to the flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped almonds or walnuts into the cupcake batter for added crunch and extra heartiness. This little twist will please nut lovers and elevate the texture.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy brightness that complements cherry and almond flavors splendidly. It’s a vibrant upgrade you’ll love!
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg, and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. Enjoy scrumptious vegan Cherry Almond Cupcakes that everyone will rave about.
Spicy Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger to the mix for a warm, spiced element. This unexpected twist adds depth and coziness, perfect for those chilly evenings.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Almond Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted Cherry Almond Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you’ve frosted your cupcakes, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Use a covered container to prevent them from drying out and to keep the frosting intact.

Freezer: Place unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cupcakes, reheat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This brings back their soft texture and delicious flavors!

What to Serve with Cherry Almond Cupcakes?

Elevate your Cherry Almond Cupcake experience with delightful pairings that create a memorable meal or snack.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a vibrant, tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the cupcakes’ moistness, adding a creamy texture for an indulgent touch.
Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea, whether sweetened or herbal, makes a perfect drink pairing, enhancing the delightful flavors of almond and cherry.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination that brings cold creaminess to each bite.
Nuts and Honey: A small platter of roasted almonds drizzled with honey adds a crunchy, sweet element that complements the cupcakes’ almond flavor wonderfully.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus notes refreshes the palate and adds color alongside the cupcakes—perfect for a spring gathering.
Coffee: Enjoying your cupcakes with a warm cup of coffee enhances their cherry and almond flavors, creating an irresistible afternoon treat.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses like mascarpone or brie can offer a savory contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cupcakes beautifully.

With these pairings, your Cherry Almond Cupcakes will shine even brighter at any gathering or simply for a cozy evening at home!

Tips for the Best Cherry Almond Cupcakes

Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to prevent tough cupcakes. Overmixing can lead to density instead of that light, fluffy texture we desire for Cherry Almond Cupcakes.
Egg Whites Matter: Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for easy whipping. This helps create the stiff peaks needed for a lighter cupcake.
Cooling Time: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting warm cupcakes can melt the frosting, ruining that perfect fluffy finish.
Customize Your Frosting: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar and heavy cream to achieve your preferred consistency. A little extra cream can lighten up your Cherry Almond Cupcakes frosting.
Test for Doneness: Use the spring-back method; if the cupcake springs back when touched, it’s ready! This ensures perfect baking without dryness.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Almond Cupcakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep and can be made ahead to save you time on busy days! You can prepare the cupcake batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking—just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, bake the cupcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, frost them with the prepared frosting (which can also be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge) for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. Just let the frosting come to room temperature and give it a quick mix before using to ensure it’s as fluffy as can be!

Cherry Almond Cupcake Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for deep red, plump ones without any dark spots; this ensures they are sweet and juicy. Ideally, try to buy them in season, as this is when they’re at their best!

How should I store leftover Cherry Almond Cupcakes?
For uncooked cupcakes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they’re frosted, store them in a covered container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their softness and flavor!

Can I freeze Cherry Almond Cupcakes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer in an airtight, freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before frosting.

What should I do if my cupcake batter is too thick?
Very! If your batter seems too thick, try adding a teaspoon of buttermilk at a time while gently mixing. This will help loosen the batter, making it easier to pipe into liners and resulting in a lighter cupcake.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Indeed, it’s essential to keep in mind that these cupcakes contain ingredients that may not be suitable for pets—particularly the chocolate or cherries. For allergies, be aware of the gluten in flour and nuts from almond extract; consider alternatives if necessary!

How can I achieve the best frosting consistency?
To get that perfect frosting, start by whipping your butter to a fluffy consistency before gradually mixing in powdered sugar. Use heavy cream to adjust the consistency—add it slowly until you reach the desired smoothness. If it’s too thick, a little more cream can work wonders!