### Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake, featuring a moist and fluffy cake studded with cherries and walnuts, topped with a creamy frosting. Perfect for any celebration!

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#### Recipe Summary:
– **Prep Time:** 20 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 30 minutes
– **Total Time:** 50 minutes
– **Yield:** 12 servings

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### Full Ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– ½ cup maraschino cherry juice
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
– Extra maraschino cherries for decoration

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### Full Instructions:

1. **Preparing the Batter:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
– In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
– Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting with one-third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk. Mix until just combined, ending with the flour mixture. Avoid overmixing.
– Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and walnuts (if using).

2. **Baking the Cake:**
– Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

3. **Preparing the Frosting:**
– In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with more milk if necessary.

4. **Assembling the Cake:**
– Place one layer of the cooled cake on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top of the first layer.
– Place the second layer on top and press gently. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
– Decorate with extra maraschino cherries on top.

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### Notes:
This Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite nuts or even a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy the delightful cherry flavor with every slice!