Maraschino Party Cake

This is a recipe from Reminisce Magazine that caught my eye. I didn't see this particular cake here, so I'm posting it. Can't wait to try it! Note: On the recipe it recommends using a stand mixer after the frosting reaches 160F.

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Serves: 12

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup shortening
• 1 1⁄3 cups sugar
• 4  egg whites
• 1⁄4 cup maraschino cherry juice
• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3  teaspoons baking powder
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 cup milk
• 16  maraschino cherries, chopped
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped  nuts

• Frosting

• 1 1⁄2 cups sugar
• 2  egg whites
• 1⁄3 cup water
• 1⁄3 cup corn syrup
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract
•  additional maraschino cherry (optional)

Directions

1. In large mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar.
2. Add egg whites and cherry juice.
3. Mix well.
4. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt.
5. Add to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk.
6. Stir in cherries and nuts.
7. Place the batter in two greased and floured 9" round baking pans.
8. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
9. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
10. For frosting, combine the sugar, egg whites, water, corn syrup and cream of tartar in heavy saucepan over low heat or double boiler over simmering water.
11. With a portable mixer, beat on low speed for 1 minute.
12. Continue beating on low over low heat until frosting reaches 160 F, about 8-10 minutes.
13. Pour into mixing bowl.
14. Add vanilla.
15. Beat on high until stiff peaks form, about 7 minutes.
16. Spread between the layers and over top and sides of cake.
17. Garnish with cherries if desired.