Luxurious Black Forest Cherry Cake

Indulge in the decadent flavors of the Luxurious Black Forest Cherry Cake. With layers of rich chocolate cake, luscious cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream, this cake is a delightful twist on the classic Black Forest cake. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:
2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream:
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish:
1/2 cup grated dark chocolate
Fresh cherries, for topping

Directions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.
4. Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Cherry Filling:

9. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
10. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the cherry filling to cool completely.

For the Whipped Cream:

11. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assembling the Cake:

12. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cherry filling over the top.
13. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cherry filling.
14. Place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining cherry filling over the top layer.
15. Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
16. Garnish with grated dark chocolate and fresh cherries.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruit flavor.
• Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling for an adult twist.
• Use a cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the cake layers and prepare the cherry filling a day in advance. Assemble the cake just before serving.
2. Can I use frozen cherries?
   Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
3. How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
   You can add chocolate chips to the batter or increase the cocoa powder slightly.
4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
   You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
6. How do I prevent the cherries from sinking in the filling?
   Toss the cherries with a bit of flour before adding them to the filling to help keep them suspended.
7. Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, heavy whipping cream will work just fine.
8. How should I store leftovers?
   Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
9. Can I add layers of chocolate ganache?
   Absolutely! Drizzling or layering ganache between the cake and cherry filling adds a rich touch.
10. How do I ensure my cake layers are even?
    Use a kitchen scale to measure your batter before pouring it into the pans for uniform layers.

Conclusion

The Luxurious Black Forest Cherry Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines chocolate, cherry, and cream flavors. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy baking and sharing this indulgent masterpiece with friends and family!

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