Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the pitted cherries gently to avoid breaking them.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.