Chocolate Cherry Cake – A Sweet Treat

Chocolate Cherry Cake is a truly indulgent dessert that marries the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the sweet, slightly tart burst of cherries.

My Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe for this delightful cake brings these two flavors together in a way that’s both decadent and irresistible.

Picture sinking your teeth into a moist, chocolatey slice, only to uncover juicy cherries nestled within each bite.

The cake’s chocolate base is often enhanced with either fresh or canned cherries, or even cherry pie filling, creating layers of flavor.

Some variations include a smooth, creamy frosting or a drizzle of luscious chocolate ganache for an extra touch of indulgence.

The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that’s as satisfying as it is luxurious, making this cake a favorite for special occasions or any time you’re craving something sweet.

How To Prepare Chocolate Cherry Cake?

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 servings

Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• 9-inch round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Spatula

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup pitted and halved fresh cherries (or canned cherries, drained)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For Garnish:

• Fresh cherries
• Chocolate shavings

How To Make Chocolate Cherry Cake:

1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
Beat softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

5. Combine Ingredients:
Alternately mix the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Fold in Cherries:
Gently fold in pitted and halved cherries for bursts of sweetness.

7. Bake:
Pour batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

8. Prepare Ganache:
Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, whisk until smooth, and stir in butter.

9. Assemble Cake:
Once cooled, pour ganache over the cake, smoothing it over the top and sides.

10. Garnish and Serve:
Decorate with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings. Slice and enjoy!

Special Note:

For an extra touch of elegance, consider topping your Chocolate Cherry Cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

Adding fresh or candied cherries on top not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a stunning presentation.

Nutritional Facts Chocolate Cherry Cake

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	420
Fat	22g
Cholesterol	90mg
Sodium	270mg
Carbohydrates	53g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	34g
Protein	6g

Tips and Variations:

1. Cherry Options: If fresh cherries are out of season, you can use frozen cherries (thawed and drained) or canned cherries (drained). Just be sure to pat them dry before folding them into the batter.

2. Chocolate Ganache: For a different twist, try adding a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur (like Kirsch or Amaretto) to the ganache for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Ensure that the baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

4. Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute, the eggs with flax eggs, and the buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and vinegar to create a vegan-friendly version.

How To Use Cherry On The Cake?

Using cherries on a cake can elevate its flavor and presentation. First, choose fresh, ripe cherries or high-quality maraschino cherries.

If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them first. Arrange the cherries on top of the cake after it has cooled, placing them strategically to create a visually appealing design.

For added flavor, you can lightly coat the cherries in a simple syrup or glaze. This not only enhances the sweetness but also gives the cherries a glossy finish that makes the cake look even more inviting.

Is Cherry Good For Health?

Cherries are excellent for overall health. They’re rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Cherries also provide a good source of vitamins C and A, fiber, and potassium, which support heart health, aid digestion, and boost the immune system.

Whether eaten fresh, dried, or as juice, cherries can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.

Is Cherry Good For Pregnancy?

Cherries are a fantastic addition to a pregnancy diet because they’re packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

These nutrients help boost the immune system, support healthy blood pressure, and reduce inflammation, which can be especially beneficial during pregnancy.

Additionally, cherries have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and can aid in reducing swelling, a common discomfort in pregnancy.

Their natural sweetness also makes them a healthy alternative to sugary snacks, helping to satisfy cravings in a nutritious way.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up our journey into the world of Chocolate Cherry Cake, it’s clear that this dessert is a perfect blend of decadence and simplicity.

The rich, chocolatey base paired with the bright, juicy burst of cherries creates a harmonious balance that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Preparing it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its deep flavors and beautiful presentation.

It’s a dessert that not only pleases the palate but also brings a sense of warmth and comfort. As you enjoy each slice, you’re reminded of the simple pleasures in life where a well-made cake can bring joy and togetherness.

So, the next time you want to make something truly special, Chocolate Cherry Cake is a delightful choice that never disappoints.