Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

Chocolate cherry cake is a decadent dessert that perfectly balances the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the sweet-tart flavor of cherries. This cake is a showstopper at any event, whether it's a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a special treat for yourself. The combination of moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and smooth chocolate ganache makes it irresistible. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious chocolate cherry cake from scratch and wow your friends and family!

What is Chocolate Cherry Cake?

Chocolate cherry cake is a layered dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base filled with cherries and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. The cake layers are often soaked in cherry syrup or liqueur to enhance the flavor and keep the cake moist. The blend of chocolate and cherries creates a luxurious, indulgent treat that is both satisfying and visually appealing.

Ingredients List for Chocolate Cherry Cake

To create this mouthwatering chocolate cherry cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 and ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup cherry juice or water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to customize this chocolate cherry cake to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
• Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like erythritol.
• Milk: Replace whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Cherries: Try using maraschino cherries for a sweeter taste or sour cherries for a more tart flavor.
• Liqueur: Soak the cake layers in cherry liqueur or Kirsch for an adult version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Chocolate Cherry Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and thin.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cherry juice or water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cherry filling on top. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve
Decorate the top of the cake with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings if desired. Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a chocolate cherry cake, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Cooling the Cakes: Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before adding the filling and ganache to prevent melting.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Lining the pans with parchment paper helps to easily remove the cakes without sticking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cake

Chocolate cherry cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more sophisticated presentation, you can serve it with a drizzle of cherry syrup on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Cherry Cake

For an impressive presentation, consider these ideas:

• Fresh Cherries: Garnish the top of the cake with fresh cherries, either whole or halved.
• Chocolate Curls: Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate curls and sprinkle them on top.
• Mint Leaves: Add a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
• Dust with Cocoa Powder: Lightly dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder for an elegant touch.

Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
• Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of the ganache greatly depends on the quality of chocolate used, so choose a high-quality brand.
• Make Ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Assemble the cake just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned cherries for the filling?
A: Yes, you can use canned cherries. Make sure to drain them well and reduce the added sugar if they are already sweetened.

Q: How should I store leftover chocolate cherry cake?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: What if I don't have cherry juice for the filling?
A: You can use water or another fruit juice like apple or grape juice as a substitute.

Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and replace the butter with a vegan alternative. Use dairy-free chocolate for the ganache.

Conclusion

Chocolate cherry cake is a luxurious dessert that marries the deep, rich flavors of chocolate with the bright, juicy taste of cherries. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to be a hit. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can create a stunning and delicious chocolate cherry cake that will impress your friends and family. Happy baking!

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