Ingredients
Meringue Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake Ingredients
Cherry Filling Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 90 degrees Celsius (200 degrees Fahrenheit). In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until they become foamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until the mixture forms stiff peaks.
Next, gently fold in the lemon juice. Spread the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to create a smooth layer. Bake for about 2 hours or until the meringue is dry and can be easily lifted from the parchment.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. In another large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and vegetable oil until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually add the buttermilk and vanilla extract to the mixture. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients until fully blended. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake in a preheated oven at 175 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 3
While the cake bakes, prepare the cherry filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles, then remove from heat. Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling the cake.
Step 4
Once the red velvet cake has cooled, slice it in half horizontally. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cherry filling over it. Next, carefully top it with the meringue layer.
Finish by placing the second layer of the cake on top and spreading more cherry filling if desired. Decorate with remaining meringue pieces and serve.
Servings
Equipment
Use a variety of sizes for mixing your batter, keeping the wet and dry ingredients separate before combining them. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best for maintaining temperature.
For fluffy cake layers, an electric mixer makes mixing easier and ensures an even texture. A hand mixer works too if you’re cozying up to a smaller task!
Ensure you have the right size pans for your cake layers, preferably round, non-stick, and at least 8 inches in diameter. Don't forget to line them with parchment paper for easy release!
Once baked, transferring your cakes to a cooling rack prevents them from becoming soggy. This is a must-have for any baker!
Variations
Faq
- What can I do if my cake layers sink in the middle?
This usually happens if the cake isn't fully baked or if it's mixed too much. Always check with a toothpick for doneness, and ensure you mix until just combined!
- How can I tell when my cake is done baking?
A good rule of thumb is to check for a clean toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out with a few crumbs (not wet batter), your cake is ready!
- I’ve baked this cake before, but my texture wasn’t right. What should I do?
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting! Cold ingredients can lead to dense textures. Also, follow the mixing times to avoid overmixing.
- Can I substitute the cherry confit with other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with raspberries, strawberries, or even blueberries to find your favorite flavor pairing.
- I’m an experienced baker. Any tips for decorating this cake more elaborately?
Consider using a crumb coat before the final layer of frosting. Fold in some cherry preserves into your cream cheese frosting for a marbled effect or drizzle chocolate ganache for a luxurious finish!
- How should I store leftover cake?
Keep any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge. This cake stays fresh for about 3-4 days, but you can also freeze slices for up to a month!