Decadent Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake Recipe

Elevate your dessert game with this stunning chocolate cherry layer cake! Moist chocolate sponge, luscious chocolate frosting, and juicy cherries come together in this crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
• ½ cup chocolate ganache (optional)
• Chocolate shavings or curls

Steps

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
4. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed.
3. Mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Increase to high speed and beat until fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of chocolate frosting on top.
2. Place the second cake layer over the frosting. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

Step 4: Decorate

1. Pipe frosting swirls on top of the cake. Place fresh cherries or maraschino cherries on top of each swirl.
2. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the top for extra indulgence.
3. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls around the sides and base of the cake.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Add cherry preserves between the layers for an extra burst of cherry flavor.

Conclusion

This decadent chocolate cherry layer cake is a showstopper with its rich flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a slice of chocolate heaven!