Chocolate and cherry cake is like a party in your mouth, where sweet cherries waltz with rich chocolate, creating a delightful dance of flavors. Imagine biting into a luscious slice where the velvety chocolate complements the tart juiciness of cherries, sending taste buds soaring to new heights of happiness. raspberry cheesecake delight.
This cake isn’t just for birthdays or fancy celebrations; it’s perfect for any occasion that calls for a little indulgence. Whether you’re trying to impress friends at a dinner party or just treating yourself after a long week, this Chocolate and cherry cake will be the star of the show, leaving everyone eagerly asking for seconds and perhaps even thirds. For more inspiration, check out this Cherry Kiss Cookies recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delectable chocolate and cherry cake combines rich flavors with an easy preparation process.
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
- Perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions, it’s versatile enough to suit all tastes.
- Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for another slice.
Ingredients for Chocolate and cherry cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for giving structure to your cake while keeping it light and fluffy.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise perfectly, giving it that light texture we all love.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal! Adjust based on your preference, but don’t skimp on flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best control over saltiness; it adds richness to the cake.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture; free-range eggs often provide better flavor.
- Fresh Cherries: Pitted and halved, they bring a juicy tartness that balances out the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash goes a long way in enhancing all those wonderful flavors in the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chocolate and cherry cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans so your masterpiece can slide out easily when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and granulated sugar until well combined. This mix will be the base of our scrumptious creation.
Step 3: Cream Your Butter
In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes—just enough time to think about how amazing this cake will taste!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time into your creamed mixture. Then stir in vanilla extract like you mean it; this is where flavor magic happens!
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense texture we want to avoid.
Step 6: Fold in Cherries
Gently fold in pitted cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want every bite packed with fruity goodness!
Step 7: Bake Your Cakes
Pour equal amounts of batter into your prepared pans and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 8: Cool and Assemble
Let your cakes cool in their pans for about ten minutes before flipping them onto wire racks to cool completely. Once cool, layer them up with frosting between each layer if desired – but really, who needs frosting when you have cherries?
Transfer to plates and enjoy each slice!
You Must Know
- This chocolate and cherry cake is a real showstopper.
- The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart cherries, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Perfect for celebrations or just because you deserve a treat, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Mix the dry ingredients first, followed by the wet ones, ensuring everything combines smoothly. Finally, fold in those luscious cherries before pouring into the pan for even baking and perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out fresh cherries for frozen ones or even dried fruits if fresh isn’t available. For an extra flair, add some spices like cinnamon or orange zest to elevate the flavor profile of your chocolate cake.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate and cherry cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat it, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore its moistness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always sift your dry ingredients together; this helps prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the cake.
- Let your cake cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and gives a beautiful finish. Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor; it makes a significant difference in taste and richness in your cake.
I once made this chocolate and cherry cake for my friend’s birthday party, and let’s just say it disappeared faster than I could say “slice.” Everyone was raving about it, which made me feel like a superstar chef!
FAQs:
What is the best way to store chocolate and cherry cake?
To maintain the freshness of your chocolate and cherry cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out. For even longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy your delicious cake whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned ones in chocolate and cherry cake?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh cherries in your chocolate and cherry cake! Fresh cherries add a bright flavor and lovely texture. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly, remove the pits, and chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution throughout the batter. If you opt for fresh cherries, consider adding a bit of extra sweetness as they may be less sugary than canned varieties. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful twist!
How can I make a gluten-free version of chocolate and cherry cake?
Making a gluten-free chocolate and cherry cake is simple! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that include xanthan gum for added structure. You may also use almond flour or coconut flour as alternatives, but adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly since these flours absorb moisture differently. The key is to ensure that the right balance of wet and dry ingredients is maintained for optimal texture and flavor in your gluten-free creation.
What are some variations I can try with chocolate and cherry cake?
There are numerous fun variations you can incorporate into your chocolate and cherry cake! Consider adding nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch, or mix in some dark chocolate chips for an extra rich taste. You could also experiment with different fruit combinations, such as raspberries or blueberries, alongside cherries for a mixed berry delight. refreshing fruit salad Additionally, topping your cake with whipped coconut cream or drizzling it with a homemade fruit glaze can elevate its presentation and taste.
Conclusion for Chocolate and cherry cake:
In summary, the chocolate and cherry cake is an indulgent dessert that combines rich cocoa flavors with tart cherries for a delightful experience. Using alternatives like chicken broth instead of alcohol ensures everyone can enjoy this treat without dietary concerns. Whether you choose fresh or canned cherries, the result remains deliciously satisfying. decadent brunch option Store it properly to keep it fresh, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your preferences. Enjoy baking this decadent dessert that will surely impress friends and family!
Chocolate and Cherry Cake
Chocolate and Cherry Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the tartness of fresh cherries. This easy-to-make cake is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence. With its vibrant colors and heavenly aroma, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sugar.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Gradually blend dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in the halved cherries.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips.- If fresh cherries are unavailable, frozen cherries can be used; simply thaw them before incorporating.
