Chocolate cherry cake is the sort of dessert that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing. Imagine biting into a moist, decadent chocolate cake, only to be greeted by the sweet surprise of juicy cherries bursting with flavor. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enveloping you in a warm embrace, as if the cake itself is saying, “Hey there, friend! Let’s indulge together.”
This delightful dish is not just about the flavors; it’s about memories too. Picture this: a rainy day spent baking with grandma, her laughter filling the air as we tried (and failed) to keep our fingers out of the batter. Or perhaps a birthday celebration where this chocolate cherry cake took center stage, eliciting oohs and aahs from hungry guests. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, this cake deserves a place on your table. Trust me; it promises an explosion of flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chocolate cherry cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Its rich flavor profile combines deep chocolate with bright cherries for an irresistible treat.
- The cake looks stunning with its glossy cherry topping and fluffy frosting, sure to impress any guest.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, serve it at birthdays or simply enjoy it on a Tuesday afternoon when you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients for chocolate cherry cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A staple in baking that gives structure to your cake. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and helps create that moist texture we all crave.
- Baking Powder: This is your secret weapon for making the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those lovely flavors in the cake.
- Eggs: They add moisture and bind everything together beautifully.
- Milk: Whole milk keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
- Vegetable Oil: This keeps your chocolate cherry cake super moist and tender.
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen cherries work well; they add bursts of fruity goodness throughout the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make chocolate cherry cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round baking pans so your masterpiece won’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare Your Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until blended. In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add Cherries
Gently fold in your cherries into the batter until evenly distributed. You want them nestled in there like little jewels waiting to burst with flavor.
Step 4: Bake It Up
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and let cakes cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Frosting Time
Once cooled completely, frost with your favorite frosting (chocolate ganache pairs wonderfully) and top with extra cherries if you’re feeling fancy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every heavenly bite of this chocolate cherry cake!
You Must Know
- This chocolate cherry cake offers more than just flavor; it transforms any gathering into a celebration.
- Rich chocolate and tart cherries combine for an unforgettable treat.
- Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix the dry ingredients while the cake pans are greased and ready. Bake the cake layers first, then prepare the cherry filling as they cool. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and delicious!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the chocolate! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate can add a unique twist to your cake. Consider adding almond extract for a nutty flavor or using fresh raspberries instead of cherries if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store your chocolate cherry cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. To enjoy later, let it come to room temperature before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor that takes this cake to the next level.
- Don’t skip letting the cake cool completely before frosting—it prevents melting!
- When adding cherries, drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Sometimes I make this cake just because I’m craving something sweet and my friends end up declaring me a “chocolate magician.” It’s become my go-to dessert for gatherings—who doesn’t love being crowned a baking hero?
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for chocolate cherry cake?
To make a delicious chocolate cherry cake, gather the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. You will also need granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Don’t forget the star of the show—fresh or canned cherries, preferably pitted. For a richer flavor, consider adding dark chocolate chips or chunks. Lastly, ensure you have butter for greasing your cake pans and making the batter smooth.
How do I store leftover chocolate cherry cake?
To preserve your chocolate cherry cake’s freshness, store it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume it within two days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. When storing in the fridge, ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months for a tasty treat later on.
Can I make chocolate cherry cake without eggs?
Yes! You can make a chocolate cherry cake without eggs by using substitutes like applesauce or mashed bananas. Typically, one-quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce or banana can replace one egg in your recipe. This substitution will maintain moisture and add sweetness to your cake while keeping it rich and delicious. Ensure that you adjust other ingredients accordingly to balance the flavors properly.
What serves best with chocolate cherry cake?
Chocolate cherry cake pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich flavors of the cake. Vanilla ice cream is another excellent choice that brings coolness next to warmth. For added texture, consider serving it with chopped nuts or fresh cherries on top as a garnish. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can elevate its presentation too.
Conclusion for chocolate cherry cake:
In summary, creating a delightful chocolate cherry cake requires simple yet flavorful ingredients like cocoa powder and cherries. The method is straightforward, allowing for various customization options such as egg substitutes or additional toppings. Proper storage will keep your cake fresh for days, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed plain with tea, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This luscious chocolate cherry cake combines rich chocolate and juicy cherries, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
Instructions
- 1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round baking pans.
- 2. Prepare Your Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- 3. Add Cherries: Gently fold in the cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- 4. Bake: Divide the batter between prepared pans. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 5. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and let cakes cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- 6. Frosting Time: Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting and top with extra cherries if desired. Serve with a drizzle of sauce for an elegant touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using dark chocolate or almond extract. - Ensure cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
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