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Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe: Easy Dessert

Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe: Easy Dessert


Description

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. Let’s dive in!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Layers

  • 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)

For the Filling and Garnish

  • 1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
  • Maraschino cherries for garnish

Optional substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the wet ingredients: buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
  4. Gradually pour in hot water while mixing. The batter will be thin but should look glossy and well-combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

  1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Ganache

  1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
  2. Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes.
  3. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow to cool slightly for easier spreading.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cherry pie filling on top.
  2. Drizzle with a small amount of ganache.
  3. Repeat the process with the remaining layers.
  4. Frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache, letting it drip down the sides for a rustic look.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  • Decorate the top with maraschino cherries and any remaining cherry filling.
  • Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and even baking.
  • Chill the cake layers before assembling to prevent crumbs from mixing into the ganache.
  • For an extra kick, add a tablespoon of Kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cherry filling.