Cherry Chocolate Cake. Picture this: rich, moist chocolate cake layers infused with juicy cherries, layered with luscious chocolate ganache, and topped with a flurry of whipped cream and fresh cherries. Are you drooling yet? Let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on this delightful baking adventure together.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Fresh cherries, for garnish
Let’s Get Baking!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake and Cool: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Make Chocolate Ganache: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Pour the remaining ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Step 8: Whip the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake and garnish with fresh cherries.
Step 9: Enjoy the Indulgence: Slice into this divine creation and savor every rich, chocolaty, cherry-filled bite. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee, sharing it with friends and family, or simply treating yourself to a moment of pure indulgence, this Cherry Chocolate Cake is sure to bring joy to your taste buds and smiles to your faces.
And there you have it—your ticket to dessert paradise with this irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cake recipe. With its rich chocolatey layers, juicy bursts of cherries, and decadent chocolate ganache, this cake is a true showstopper that’s bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that’s as delicious as it is delightful. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet moment of indulgence!