Chocolate and cherry cake

Chocolate and cherry cake is a decadent dessert, perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to gatherings with friends. This recipe combines the intense flavors of chocolate with the pleasant acidity of cherries, creating a perfect balance of tastes. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and this recipe is suitable for 8 delicious servings. Let’s get started!

Necessary ingredients

*For the base:*
- 6 egg whites
- 3 egg yolks
- 180 g sugar
- 120 g flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 75 ml oil (sunflower oil is recommended for a neutral taste)
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

*For the cream:*
- 350 ml liquid cream
- 150 g sugar
- 70 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g cocoa
- 200 g plain chocolate (choose a quality chocolate with over 70% cocoa content for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g cherries from compote (make sure they are well drained)
- Chocolate flakes for decoration

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the bases:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (fan). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm meringue-like consistency. It is important that the egg whites are beaten well to achieve an airy texture.

2. Adding the yolks:
In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the oil and gradually incorporate them into the egg white mixture. Use a spatula to gently mix, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Sift these ingredients to avoid lumps. Gradually add them to the egg mixture, gently folding with the spatula until you achieve a uniform batter.

4. Baking the bases:
Pour the batter into the prepared tray and level the surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool completely in the tray.

5. Preparing the cream:
In a saucepan, combine the butter with the sugar and cocoa, mixing over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and add the chocolate broken into small pieces, stirring until completely melted. Let it cool slightly.

6. Whipping the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Add the chocolate mixture and gently fold with a spatula until combined.

7. Assembling the cake:
Cut the cooled base in half. Place the first half on a serving platter, spread a layer of chocolate cream evenly, and add the cherries from the compote. Cover with the second half of the base and spread the remaining cream on top.

8. Decorating:
Sprinkle chocolate flakes on top for a more attractive appearance. You can also add a few whole cherries for colorful decoration.

Serving and variations
Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to set the cream. This chocolate and cherry cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce. You can also experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a different version of this delicious dessert.

Enjoy each slice and let yourself be carried away by the intense flavors of chocolate and cherries. This simple and quick recipe is sure to become everyone’s favorite!