Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight
If you’re looking for a rich and indulgent dessert, you can’t go wrong with the Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight. This stunning cake combines layers of moist chocolate cake with luscious cherry filling and creamy whipped topping. It’s a perfect treat for any celebration or just a special night at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight is a wonderful idea because it combines flavors that everyone loves. The deep chocolate taste pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart cherries, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Plus, it’s visually impressive, making it an ideal dessert for parties, birthdays, or holidays.
How to Make Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Shaved chocolate (for decoration)
- Fresh cherries with stems (for decoration)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For the cherry filling, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then let cool.
- Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
- To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate, top with cherry filling and whipped cream, and repeat with the second layer.
- Frost the whole cake with whipped cream, then garnish with shaved chocolate and fresh cherries.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight
Serve this delightful cake chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. A slice is best enjoyed with a fork, and you can offer extra whipped cream or cherries on the side for those who want more!
How to Store Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to maintain freshness. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to a month.
Tips to Make Decadent Chocolate & Cherry Black Forest Delight
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting; this helps the batter blend better.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the frosting set and makes the cake easier to slice.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
Variation
You can substitute the cherries with other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a different flavor. For an extra touch, try adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s a cup-for-cup substitute.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day before and assemble everything just before serving.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or a lighter version of cream if available.
Enjoy this delicious dessert with friends and family! It’s sure to be a hit.
