Cseresznyés Lepény is a light, fluffy Hungarian sponge cake loaded with juicy cherries 🍒. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a coffee break or dessert. The cherries add a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the soft cake, making it a classic Hungarian treat! 😍
🛒 Ingredients
🥚 4 large eggs (room temperature) 🌾 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 🥄 1 tsp baking powder 🥄 ½ tsp salt 🧈 ½ cup unsalted butter, melted 🍚 ¾ cup sugar 🥛 ½ cup milk 🍋 1 tsp vanilla extract (or zest of 1 lemon) 🍒 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted 🧁 Powdered sugar (for dusting)
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cherries 🍒
If using fresh cherries, pit them and pat dry.
If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid.
2️⃣ Preheat & Prep 🔥
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3️⃣ Whisk the Eggs & Sugar 🥣
Beat eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
Add vanilla extract (or lemon zest) and mix.
4️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients 🌾
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold into the egg mixture.
5️⃣ Add Butter & Milk 🧈🥛
Slowly mix in melted butter and milk until smooth.
6️⃣ Add Cherries & Bake 🍒🔥
Pour batter into the prepared pan.
Evenly scatter the cherries over the top (they will sink slightly as they bake).
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool & Dust with Powdered Sugar ❄️
Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish! ✨
💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Cseresznyés Lepény
✅ Room temperature eggs help create a fluffier cake. 🥚 ✅ Use tart cherries for a more traditional flavor! 🍒 ✅ Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and airy.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
☕ With Coffee or Tea – A perfect afternoon treat! 🍨 With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – For extra indulgence. 🍫 Drizzle with Melted Chocolate – Because why not? 😍
