Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Cream & Cherries: A Decadent Delight

Prepare to wow your family and friends with this Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Cream & Cherries. This luxurious dessert features rich chocolate layers, smooth vanilla cream, and a drizzle of chocolate ganache topped with vibrant cherries. Perfect for special occasions or any day you want to indulge!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water or coffee

For the Vanilla Cream Layer:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

For Garnish:

• Fresh cherries (with stems)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Vanilla Cream Layer

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before use.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of vanilla cream over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining vanilla cream or ganache.
3. Drizzle the cooled chocolate ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

5. Decorate

1. Garnish the cake with fresh cherries and whipped cream swirls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Combination: Rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and the sweet-tartness of cherries create a symphony of flavors.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: This cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Versatile: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a luxurious treat.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Cocoa: For the best chocolate flavor, choose a high-quality cocoa powder.
2. Level Your Cake Layers: Trim the tops of the cakes to make the layers even.
3. Refrigerate Before Slicing: Chilling the assembled cake for 30 minutes helps it set and makes slicing easier.

FAQs

1. Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes! Bake the cake layers up to 2 days ahead and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Assemble and frost on the day of serving.

2. Can I use canned cherries?
Absolutely! Canned cherries or cherry pie filling work as a great substitute for fresh cherries.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake with:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop for extra indulgence.
• Hot Espresso: The bitterness balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for added freshness.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Cream & Cherries is a dessert worth celebrating. Its rich layers, creamy filling, and elegant garnish make it a standout choice for any occasion. Bake it today and enjoy a slice of chocolate heaven!