chocolate cherry cake

Chocolate cherry cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the tart sweetness of cherries. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to dinner parties, and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavor and beautiful presentation. Follow this simple recipe to bake a decadent chocolate cherry cake at home.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Cherry Filling:

2 cups pitted dark sweet cherries (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

Decoration

Whipped cream or frosting (optional)
Fresh cherries or chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and the sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry.
Add the cornstarch slurry to the cherry mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. Allow it to cool slightly to thicken.

5. Assemble the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top.
Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
If desired, decorate with whipped cream, fresh cherries, or chocolate shavings.

6. Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the ganache to set.
Slice and enjoy your homemade chocolate cherry cake!

Conclusion

Baking a chocolate cherry cake is a delightful experience that results in a truly indulgent dessert. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries is irresistible, making it a perfect treat for any celebration. Follow this recipe to create a beautiful and delicious cake that will wow your friends and family. Happy baking!