Every holiday table in Newfoundland has a story, and often, that story is told through food. One dessert that holds a special place in the hearts of many is Mrs. Barnes’ Cherry Cake. Known for its rich, buttery crumb and bursts of sweet glacé cherries, this cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition passed from one generation to the next.
If you’ve ever searched for a holiday recipe that feels both comforting and festive, this cherry cake is the one to try. Whether you bake it for Christmas gatherings, family celebrations, or just as a treat with tea, its old-fashioned charm makes it a Newfoundland favorite.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40–60 minutes |
| Total Time | About 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Servings | 12–16 slices (depending on pan) |
| Skill Level | Beginner-friendly |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & Colorful – The glacé cherries add sweetness and a pop of color, making every slice look beautiful.
- Rich & Buttery – With plenty of butter, this cake has that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Holiday Tradition – This recipe has been shared across Newfoundland families for decades.
- Freezer-Friendly – Make it ahead and freeze for stress-free holiday prep.
Ingredients
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ cups butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond or lemon extract
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups glacé cherries (halved and lightly floured)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a tube pan or two loaf pans.
Flour the Cherries
Halve the glacé cherries and toss them in a bit of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs & Extracts
Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and almond (or lemon) extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
Fold in Cherries
Gently fold in the prepared cherries. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan(s). Bake for 40–60 minutes, depending on pan size, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool before slicing. Serve plain or with a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
Tips for Succes
- Store in an airtight container — it stays moist for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezes beautifully — wrap tightly for up to 3 months.
- For added elegance, drizzle with a simple icing glaze before serving.
Variations
- Nutty Twist – Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Festive Touch – Swap half the cherries with mixed candied fruit.
- Citrus Flavor – Add zest of 1 lemon or orange to brighten the flavor.
How to Store This Recipe
One of the best things about Mrs. Barnes’ Cherry Cake is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store it so you can enjoy it for days—or even weeks:
- Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigerator: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of glacé cherries?
No, this recipe works best with glacé cherries. Fresh cherries release too much juice and can change the texture.
2. Can I make this cherry cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after resting for a day. Store in a sealed container or freeze for later.
3. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Traditionally, it’s served plain, but you can dress it up with glaze, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Mrs. Barnes’ Cherry Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of Newfoundland holiday history. With its buttery crumb, festive cherries, and timeless flavor, this cake is sure to become a staple at your family gatherings too. Bake it once, and you’ll understand why it has remained a beloved holiday treat “on the Rock” for generations.