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
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the wet ingredients: buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- 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
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 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
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow to cool slightly for easier spreading.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cherry pie filling on top.
- Drizzle with a small amount of ganache.
- Repeat the process with the remaining layers.
- 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!
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- 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.