Vintage Cherry Chip Layer Cake

Step 1: Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans or two 9-inch round pans by lightly spraying with cooking spray and a light coat of flour.

Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the vanilla and sour cream and mix well to combine.

Step 5: Add the egg and egg whites in two batches, scraping the sides of the bowl and mixing well between each addition.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.

Step 7: Add the dry ingredients alternately with the maraschino cherry juice and milk. Be sure to scrape the bowl between additions, and only mix just until everything is combined

Step 8: Stir in the chopped maraschino cherries.

Step 9: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, then bake for 24 to 26 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the center of the cakes comes out with only a few crumbs.

Step 10: Cool completely on a wire rack.

FROSTING

Step 11: In a large bowl, combine the butter and shortening and beat on medium speed until smooth.

Step 12: Add 4 cups of the icing sugar and beat well until smooth.

Step 13: Add 3 tablespoons of the maraschino cherry juice and beat again to completely incorporate.

Step 14: Repeat with another 4 cups of the icing sugar, followed by 2 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice, mixing well between additions.

Step 15: Add remaining 4 cups of icing sugar and mix until smooth, adding an additional tablespoon of cherry juice, if necessary, to make a thick frosting

ASSEMBLY

Step 16: Level each cooled cake round by slicing off any domed tops.

Step 17: Place the bottom layer of cake on a cake plate and carefully spread 1 1/2 cups of the frosting over it in an even layer. Repeat with the second layer of cake and another 1 1/2 cups of frosting.

Step 18: Top with the remaining cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with most of the remaining frosting, reserving about 1 cup for piping onto the top of the cake.

Step 19: Decorate with extra maraschino cherries with stems