Indulging in a slice of cherry chocolate cake is like diving into a sweet, velvety dream where rich chocolate dances with the tartness of cherries. The aroma wafting from the oven will have you questioning if you’re in a bakery or at home. Imagine biting into that fluffy cake, the cherries bursting with flavor, and chocolate melting in your mouth—pure bliss!
This delightful treat isn’t just for birthdays or special occasions; it’s perfect for any day that ends with “y.” Whether you’re celebrating a Wednesday or just need a pick-me-up after a long workday, this cherry chocolate cake promises to elevate your spirits and tickle your taste buds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry chocolate cake is simple to make, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers
- The combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate creates a flavor explosion
- Its beautiful appearance makes it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering
- Versatile enough to be served at parties or enjoyed quietly at home with coffee
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They kept asking for seconds—like they were on some kind of cherry-chocolate mission!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: A staple that gives structure to your cake; opt for unbleached for better flavor.
Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake beautifully; feel free to reduce it slightly if using sweet cherries.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise, ensuring it maintains a light and fluffy texture.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors; just a pinch makes all the difference!
Eggs: These bind everything together and add moisture; choose large eggs for best results.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness; whole milk works best but use what you have on hand.
Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist; can substitute with melted butter if preferred.
Fresh Cherries: Pitted and halved for bursts of flavor in each bite; frozen cherries work too!
Dark Chocolate Chips: For those pockets of melty goodness throughout the cake; choose semi-sweet or bittersweet based on preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cake
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans, ensuring easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Your kitchen should start smelling like a chocolate factory!
Create Wet Mixture: In another bowl, mix eggs, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil until creamy. Feel free to channel your inner pastry chef while whisking!
Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix—those air bubbles are essential for fluffiness!
Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in fresh cherries and dark chocolate chips into your batter. It’s like adding little surprises of joy throughout!
Bake! Pour equal amounts of batter into your prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.
Now that you’ve conquered this cherry chocolate masterpiece, prepare yourself for compliments aplenty! Each bite will leave everyone enchanted by its perfect balance of tart cherry sweetness and rich chocolate decadence. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience worth savoring!
You Must Know
- Cherry chocolate cake is a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness, making it irresistible
- The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the juicy cherries, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and refreshing
- Perfect for celebrations or just because you deserve a treat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your cherry filling while the oven preheats to 350°F. Then mix your cake batter, pour it into pans, and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity twist. Adding a splash of almond extract can elevate the flavor and add depth to your cake.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry chocolate cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cherries for the best flavor; frozen ones can make the cake soggy
- Don’t forget to let the cake cool completely before frosting it; this prevents melting
- Lastly, dusting powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch without overwhelming sweetness
I vividly remember the first time I made cherry chocolate cake for my best friend’s birthday. The sheer joy on her face when she took that first bite was priceless, and it became our go-to dessert for celebrations ever since. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries in my cherry chocolate cake?
Using fresh cherries is best, but if using frozen, thaw them completely first.
How do I know when my cherry chocolate cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
What can I substitute for flour in this recipe?
You can use gluten-free flour blends to create a delicious gluten-free cherry chocolate cake.
Cherry Chocolate Cake
Indulge in the decadent fusion of rich chocolate and tart cherries with this irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cake. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make dessert features a fluffy cake base enriched with fresh cherries and dark chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat that will elevate your spirit and impress your guests. Whether it’s a weekday pick-me-up or a special celebration, every slice promises a burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 cherries, pitted and halved (or frozen)
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, sugar, milk, and vegetable oil until creamy.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in cherries and chocolate chips.
- Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the wet mixture. If desired, swap out cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
