01 -
Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened, for a rich, buttery base.
02 -
Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness and structure.
03 -
Eggs: 2 large, for binding and moisture.
04 -
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for enhanced flavor.
05 -
All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups, for structure.
06 -
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, for leavening.
07 -
Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance flavors.
08 -
Cherry jam or preserves: 1 cup, for filling.
09 -
Powdered sugar: 1 ½ cups, for the frosting.
10 -
Strawberry puree: 3 tablespoons, for a natural strawberry flavor in the frosting.
11 -
Pink food coloring: A few drops (optional), for visual appeal.
12 -
Powdered sugar: For dusting, if desired.