White cake with cherries and chocolate

White Cherry and Chocolate Cake: The Perfect Indulgence for a Hot Summer

I propose a cake recipe that will surely become the star of summer evenings, a delight that combines the fresh flavors of cherries with the finesse of chocolate. This white cherry and chocolate cake is perfect for those who prefer desserts that are less sweet and more tart. With each slice, you'll discover an explosion of flavors that will make your heart race.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Recipe History

This white cherry and chocolate cake recipe blends the tradition of fruit cakes with the refinement of chocolate, and the combination is not coincidental. Over time, cakes have been a symbol of celebrations and special moments, and this cake pays tribute to those moments, transforming them into a memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the Base:
- 250 g flour
- 100 ml oil
- 100 ml full-fat milk (for a richer taste)
- 1 handful of raisins (pre-soaked)
- A little cognac (to enhance the flavor of the raisins)
- Essences (vanilla and orange)
- 3 large eggs
- 400 g sour jam (from rose hips, raspberries, cornelian cherries, or plums)
- 1 packet baking powder
- A little lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (for extra flavor)

For the Ganache Cream:
- 200 ml cream (for whipping)
- 200 g chocolate (a mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate)

For Assembly:
- 300 ml cream (for whipping)
- 1 kg cherries (fresh or canned)
- Juice from the compote (to soak the layers)

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the flour, oil, milk, eggs, jam, and chocolate are at room temperature to facilitate mixing. Soak the raisins in cognac for at least 30 minutes before starting.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, mix the sour jam with the egg yolks, oil, milk, and the essences of vanilla and orange. Add the baking powder mixed with lemon juice and stir until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt and a few drops of vinegar until a firm foam forms. Gently fold the egg whites into the jam mixture, gradually adding the flour and mixing from the bottom up.

Step 3: Bake the Base
Line a cake pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter and sprinkle with flour. Pour the batter into the pan and bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool completely after baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Cream
In a small pot, heat the cream over low heat and add the chocolate broken into pieces. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted. Let the cream cool slightly, then refrigerate for a few hours. It will become firmer, making it easier to whip.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the base has completely cooled, cut it into two equal parts. Soak each layer with the juice from the compote to add moisture. Spread a layer of raspberry jam on the first layer, then add the ganache cream and place the cherries on top. Close with the second layer, which you spread with jam on the inside.

Step 6: Decorate the Cake
Whip the remaining cream until it forms stiff peaks, then frost the cake with whipped cream. Decorate with fresh cherries and, if desired, with some whipped cream mixed with raspberry jam for a color contrast and extra flavor.

Practical Tips

- If you want to achieve an even moister cake, you can add a little orange juice to the compote juice for a citrus flavor.
- Use your favorite jam, but remember that a sour jam will perfectly contrast with the sweetness of the chocolate.
- Don't hesitate to experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apricots, to create a cake with diverse flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, you can use either only dark chocolate or only milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the cake lower in calories?
For a lighter version, you can use light cream for whipping and reduce the amount of jam.

3. How can I keep the cake fresh for longer?
I recommend keeping it covered in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

Recommended Pairings

This white cherry and chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet wine or a fruit tea. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of cake will transform the dessert into a true feast.

Conclusion

I conclude this recipe with the hope that every bite of this white cherry and chocolate cake brings you joy and indulgence. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake will surely leave a lasting impression. Enjoy your meal and have fun in the kitchen!