In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Mix sugar, oil, orange juice, eggs, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is combined.
Fold in flour, baking powder, and salt.
Pour half of the batter into a 9-inch square baking pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
Add cherry pie filling and spread evenly.
Add the remaining batter and spread evenly over the top.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture over the cake. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before slicing.