Chocolate and cherry cake

Chocolate and Cherry Cake: A Decadent Delight for Any Occasion

If you're looking for a recipe that will impress, the chocolate and cherry cake is definitely the perfect choice. This dessert is not just an explosion of flavors but also a combination of textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you're making it for an anniversary, a party, or simply to treat yourself, the recipe below will yield a result worthy of the most sophisticated patisseries.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 100 g butter
- 100 g hot water
- 3 large eggs
- 130 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (approximately 7 g)
- 1 bar of dark chocolate (approximately 100 g)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

For the cream:
- 300 g heavy cream
- 1 bar of dark chocolate (approximately 100 g)
- 1 cup of cherries (fresh or canned)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake

1. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the diced butter and dark chocolate. Place the bowl over a pot of hot water (bain-marie) and stir gently until the butter and chocolate are completely melted and smooth. This will create a rich and creamy base for your cake.

2. Adding hot water: Once the chocolate mixture has cooled slightly, add the hot water and mix well. The hot water will help activate the ingredients and make the cake moist and flavorful.

3. Beating the eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until fluffy and light in color. This will add volume and airiness to your cake layers.

4. Combining the ingredients: Pour the chocolate and butter mixture over the beaten eggs. Gently mix with a spatula. Fold in the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder, mixing until all ingredients are well combined.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and pour the cake batter into the pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Cream

1. Heating the cream: In a saucepan, add the heavy cream and diced dark chocolate. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Be careful not to let it boil; just melt the chocolate completely.

2. Cooling the cream: Once the chocolate has melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes.

3. Whipping the cream: After the mixture has cooled, take it out of the refrigerator and whip it until it becomes a fluffy and airy cream. This will be the perfect texture to fill your cake.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Cutting the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, carefully cut it in half using a long, sharp knife. This will create two delicious layers.

2. Soaking the first layer: You can prepare a syrup from water and sugar to soak each layer, adding a touch of moisture and flavor. Generously soak the first cake layer.

3. Adding the cream and cherries: Spread half of the chocolate cream over the first cake layer. Evenly distribute the cherries (well-drained if using canned) on top of the cream. Add the remaining cream and smooth it out with a spatula.

4. Finishing the cake: Carefully place the second cake layer on top. For an attractive presentation, you can decorate the cake with grated chocolate, fresh cherries, or chocolate shavings.

5. Final cooling: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This cooling time will help set the cream and enhance the flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality chocolate: Good quality dark chocolate will make a difference in the final taste of the cake. Opt for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for an intense flavor.

- Fresh vs. canned cherries: If using fresh cherries, make sure they are ripe. If you choose canned cherries, drain them well to avoid adding excess liquid to the cake.

- Variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries or blackberries, or add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the cream for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This chocolate and cherry cake contains nutritious ingredients, such as eggs, which are a good source of protein and vitamins, and cherries, which are rich in antioxidants. Even though it is a dessert, moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What can I do if the cake is lacking moisture?: Make sure the cake is well-soaked, and if needed, you can add a tablespoon of cherry syrup to the cream for extra moisture.

- Can I freeze the cake?: Yes, this cake can be frozen, but it's recommended to assemble and decorate it after thawing to maintain its fresh appearance.

- What drinks pair well with this cake?: A glass of red wine, a cup of coffee, or herbal tea are excellent options that can perfectly complement the flavors of this dessert.

Personal Note

This chocolate and cherry cake recipe has become a family favorite, and each bite takes you on a journey of flavor. I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones as we prepare this dessert for special occasions. So, don’t hesitate to bring your family or friends close to share the joy of cooking and enjoy this delight together!

Your chocolate and cherry cake is now ready to be savored! Happy baking, and remember: every dessert has a story, and this is just the beginning!