Pink Azalea Cake

Step 1

For the cake: Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans and line with parchment paper. Scrape one-third of batter into each of 2 prepared pans. Stir ⅛ teaspoon food coloring into remaining batter, then scrape into third prepared pan. Bake cakes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack, remove parchment, and cool completely.

Step 2

For the filling and frosting: Whisk 1/8 teaspoon food coloring into icing. To make filling, transfer 2 cups icing to large bowl. Gently fold in fruit, nuts, and Kirsch (if using) until combined.

Step 3

To assemble: Place white cake layer on serving platter. Spread half of filling over cake. Top with pink cake layer and remaining filling. Top with remaining white cake layer. Spread icing over top and sides of cake, using back of spoon to create decorative swirls and peaks.