Chocolate and Cherry Cake

Chocolate and Cherry Cake - A Delight for the Soul

Total time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 15

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a tasty dessert, this chocolate and cherry cake is the perfect choice. With a light sponge, a decadent cream, and a colorful decoration, this cake is sure to be the star of the table.

A Bit of History

Cakes have been an essential part of celebrations throughout history, associated with joy and festivity. Chocolate cake, in particular, gained popularity in the 19th century, and the addition of fruits like cherries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fresh and vibrant touch.

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 eggs (preferably fresh)
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 7 tablespoons ground walnuts
- 1 packet baking powder
- a pinch of salt

For the buttercream:
- 1 package (about 200 g) butter (at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- seeds from ½ vanilla pod
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon ground coffee

For the syrup:
- 500 ml water
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon rum essence

For decoration:
- Fresh cherries (to taste)
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 150 g milk chocolate
- Chocolate flakes for decoration

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the sponge

Start by separating the eggs. It is crucial that the egg whites are beaten well to achieve a light sponge. Use a clean, dry bowl to beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until a firm foam forms.

Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until you obtain a glossy meringue. Then, add the egg yolks one at a time, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture.

In another bowl, combine the flour, ground walnuts, and baking powder. Sift this mixture over the beaten egg whites, folding gently with a spatula in an up-and-down motion. This will help maintain the air in the mixture, essential for a fluffy sponge.

Pour the mixture into a round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

2. Preparing the syrup

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the granulated sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Once the mixture has boiled, turn off the heat and add the rum essence. Allow to cool.

3. Buttercream

Use a mixer to beat the butter at room temperature until creamy and light in color. Add the sugar, vanilla seeds, cocoa powder, and ground coffee. Continue mixing until well combined and a smooth cream forms.

4. Assembling the cake

Slice the sponge into two or three layers, depending on your preference. Soak each layer with the rum syrup, using a pastry brush to evenly distribute the syrup.

Fill the cake with the buttercream, ensuring even distribution. If desired, you can add a thin layer of whipped cream between the layers for extra flavor.

5. Decorating

Whip the liquid cream with a mixer until it becomes silky and firm enough to be used for decoration. Coat the cake in melted chocolate, either in a double boiler or using a fondue chocolate. Ensure that the chocolate is at an optimal temperature so it does not harden too quickly.

Decorate with whipped cream on top and add fresh cherries. Grate chocolate on top for an elegant finish. It is recommended to refrigerate the cake until serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Helpful Tips

1. Choose quality ingredients: Use good quality chocolate and fresh butter for the best results. The cake's flavor greatly depends on the ingredients.

2. Fresh or frozen cherries: If fresh cherries are not available, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water.

3. Variations: You can also add other fruits like raspberries or strawberries to diversify the flavors. Additionally, instead of rum, try almond essence for a different note.

4. Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a flavored coffee. It offers a delicious combination!

Nutritional Benefits

This chocolate and cherry cake is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants from the cherries, contributing to heart health. Walnuts provide healthy fats, and dark chocolate (if you choose a higher cocoa variant) is a good source of flavonoids.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be different.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep it covered in the refrigerator, but it is best consumed within 3-4 days to maintain its freshness.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
It is recommended to freeze the sponge without the cream. Make sure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple gathering with friends, this chocolate and cherry cake is sure to bring smiles and unforgettable moments. Enjoy!