Name: Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for a richer flavor); 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk (substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, left to sit for 5 minutes); ½ cup vegetable oil (neutral oil like canola works best); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¾ cup hot water (enhances the cocoa flavor); For the Ganache: 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (use high-quality chocolate for the best ganache); 1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade); Maraschino cherries for garnish

Welcome, dessert enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey to create the most decadent chocolate cherry cake ever? This Black Forest-inspired layer cake recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of rich chocolate and luscious cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this delightful treat will make you feel like a pastry chef in no time. With every bite, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive in!

The beauty of this decadent chocolate cherry cake lies not just in its flavors, but also in its simplicity. The layers are made from scratch, ensuring a fresh taste and a delightful texture. This dessert is layered with creamy cherry filling and indulgent ganache, creating a harmonious blend that makes it the star of any gathering. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any special occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a well-deserved treat for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake

Flavorful Harmony: The rich chocolate cake pairs perfectly with sweet cherries, creating a deliciously moist experience.
Simple Ingredients: Made with common ingredients found in most kitchens, this cake is easy to prepare, even for beginners!
Impressive Presentation: With its layered structure and glossy ganache, this cake is visually stunning and makes for a beautiful centerpiece.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with alternative ingredients to suit dietary restrictions, like gluten-free options.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, it brings joy to every celebration!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin baking your decadent chocolate cherry cake, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and assemble the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather three 8-inch round cake pans, ensuring they are clean and ready for use. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking and grease the sides with butter or cooking spray.

Make sure to have all your ingredients on hand, including the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, as well as the ingredients for the ganache and cherry filling. A large mixing bowl and a whisk will be your best friends for this recipe, as well as measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements.

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Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for a richer flavor)
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk (substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, left to sit for 5 minutes)
½ cup vegetable oil (neutral oil like canola works best)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup hot water (enhances the cocoa flavor)
For the Ganache: 1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (use high-quality chocolate for the best ganache)
1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
Maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven heats, take your three prepared 8-inch round cake pans and ensure they are greased well and lined with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Next, incorporate the wet ingredients into your dry mixture. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Using a whisk, mix until the batter is smooth and free of any lumps. This is where the magic happens as the flavors begin to meld together. Gradually add the hot water into the batter, stirring continuously. The batter will be thinner than most cakes, but that’s perfectly normal – it enhances the moisture and cocoa flavor!

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Once your cake batter is ready, divide it evenly among the three prepared pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for even baking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center of each cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for approximately 10 minutes. This allows them to stabilize and makes it easier to remove them. Gently transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect frosting application later.

Step 3: Make the Ganache

Now that your cake layers are cooling, it’s time to prepare the luscious ganache! In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer gently. Be careful not to let it boil. Once it reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Allow the mixture to sit for about 2 minutes, letting the chocolate melt slowly.

Afterward, stir the chocolate and cream together until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This is the ganache that will coat the cake and create that irresistible richness. Allow it to cool slightly, which will make it easier to spread without melting the cake layers.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

To assemble your decadent cake, start by placing one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Generously spread a layer of cherry pie filling on top. Drizzle a little ganache over the filling to enhance the flavors and create a beautiful texture. Repeat this process with the second layer, stacking it carefully on top of the first.

Once all layers are stacked, cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache, spreading it evenly and allowing some to drip down the sides for that rustic and appealing look. It’s okay if it isn’t perfect – those little drips add charm!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As a final touch, decorate the top of your cake with maraschino cherries and any leftover cherry filling. This not only adds a pop of color but also emphasizes the delicious flavor of sweet cherries. Now, slice into this beautiful creation and enjoy each bite of this decadent chocolate cherry cake!

Variations

Protein: Consider adding some whipped egg whites folded in at the end of the batter preparation for a lighter cake.
Vegetables: For a richer flavor, add pureed beetroot for a healthy color and a hint of sweetness.
Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or allspice for an additional warmth in the cake.

Cooking Notes

Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor and richness.
If the ganache is too runny, let it sit longer to thicken before spreading.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Pair with a cup of espresso or a glass of Port wine to complement the flavors.

Tips

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best cake texture.
For easier layering, you can freeze the cake layers for about 30 minutes before assembling to prevent crumbling.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
Protein: 7 grams
Sodium: 210 milligrams

FAQs

Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Yes, you can use a mixture of regular milk and vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk. Simply combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for five minutes before using.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Certainly! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Ganache can also be made ahead of time and gently reheated before spreading.

How do I store any leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may also freeze slices for longer storage.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but you may need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a filling-like consistency.

Conclusion

This decadent chocolate cherry cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience to savor. With its rich flavor, impressive layers, and delightful cherry filling, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try! Please share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and let’s spread the joy of baking together!