Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

If there’s a cake that will have everyone sneaking back to the kitchen for just “one more sliver,” it’s this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe. Fluffy layers of rich cocoa cake, luscious chocolate frosting, and juicy kirsch-soaked cherries come together in a showstopping dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. This is a cake for celebrations, or for any day that needs a little magic—and trust me, once you try it, this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe will earn a spot at the top of your favorite bakes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking a cake this tempting doesn’t have to be complicated! Each ingredient is handpicked for its role in building the best Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe—whether it’s cocoa for depth, cherries for freshness, or creamy butter for indulgence. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making cake magic.

• Eggs: Nine large, room temperature eggs create the airy, light texture that sets this cake apart from dense chocolate cakes.
• Granulated Sugar: Lends sweetness and helps whip plenty of volume into the eggs for a tender crumb.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just the right amount for structure—don’t overdo it, so your cake stays softly layered.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened for pure chocolate flavor; use a high-quality brand for the most rich, true taste.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted and cooled, it brings a delicate richness that keeps your cake moist.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds gentle, aromatic warmth and enhances the chocolate.
• Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Use whatever’s available, but make sure they’re pitted and coarsely chopped for juicy bites in every forkful.
• Kirsch (Cherry Liqueur): Soaks the cherries, giving the cake its signature flavor and a grown-up twist.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky-smooth and easy to spread.
• Cream Cheese: Blends with butter for an irresistibly creamy, spreadable chocolate frosting.
• Sea Salt: Just a pinch sharpens the chocolate notes and balances sweetness.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Cherries

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, and lining the bottoms of two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. There’s no need to grease the sides—trust me, this ensures the cake rises tall and even. Combine your chopped cherries with kirsch and let them marinate at room temperature while you tackle the cake; every minute in that syrupy bath adds more cherry flavor later.

Step 2: Whip the Eggs and Sugar

Place all nine eggs into a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on high for about a minute, then, still mixing, slowly add in the granulated sugar. Keep going on high for 8 minutes. The mixture will triple in volume and turn luxuriously fluffy—this is where you get that signature lightness in our Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Fold in the Dry Ingredients and Butter

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and cocoa powder together. Sift one-third of this mixture over your egg batter, then fold in gently with a spatula, repeating until all the dry ingredients are incorporated. Pour in the melted, cooled butter and vanilla in a slow stream, folding until just combined. Don’t overmix, or you’ll lose all those lovely air bubbles!

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide your airy batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and pop them into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully run a spatula around the edges, turn them out onto a wire rack, and let them cool completely. This rest time keeps the layers moist and easy to handle.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Frosting

While your cakes cool, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together on medium-high for 2 minutes, until fluffy and smooth. In another bowl, whisk powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and sea salt together, then sift into the butter mixture. Beat on medium-low until everything is incorporated, then add vanilla and whip on medium-high for about 4 minutes. The result? Dreamy, cloud-like chocolate frosting perfect for sweeping over your cake.

Step 6: Assemble the Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

Now the fun part—assembly! Drain your cherries, reserving the marinade, and add sugar and water to make a cherry syrup. Slice one cake layer in half horizontally (a serrated knife works wonders). The second cake layer gets torn into large, rustic crumbs. In a bowl, combine these crumbs with a generous third of the frosting and all the soaked cherries. For construction, place one sliced cake half (cut side up) on your serving platter, brush with syrup, and spread a thin layer of frosting on top. Add the crumbled cake-cherry mixture, gently shaping it into an even layer, and brush with more syrup. Frost the cut side of the second cake half, place it frosted-side down, then brush with the rest of the syrup. Finally, generously frost the top and sides with your fluffy chocolate icing. Voilà: Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe perfection!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To add those finishing touches that make your Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe a visual and flavorful showpiece, consider topping with dark chocolate curls, a fresh handful of cherries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that snowy effect. Each adornment highlights the cake’s natural drama and makes the first slice even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert duet. For a festive spread, serve alongside a fruit salad with more fresh cherries or even a tangy raspberry coulis to complement the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For your next dinner party, turn this showstopper into imposing little cupcakes or parfaits—just layer chunks of cake, syrupy cherries, and frosting in glasses for a fun, single-serve dessert. Or, if you want a true centerpiece, sprinkle edible flowers and gleaming chocolate shards over the top before serving!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers of the Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for about 3 to 4 days, and you might just discover the flavors deepen and get even better with a little chill time.

Freezing

To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to two months without losing their vibrant flavor or texture—just let slices thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Most folks prefer this cake chilled or at room temperature, but if you love your frosted cake ever-so-slightly warm, place a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds. It softens the frosting and intensifies the chocolatey aroma—but be careful not to overdo it, or you’ll lose that signature creamy texture!

FAQs

Can I make this cake without the kirsch?

Absolutely! While kirsch adds an authentic cherry kick, you can substitute with cherry juice or even a splash of vanilla if you want to keep it non-alcoholic. The cake will still shine with cherry flavor.

Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use canned cherries in a pinch. Just drain them well and consider reducing the syrup quantity slightly since canned cherries are usually sweeter and softer than fresh or frozen ones.

How do I get perfectly even cake layers?

Make sure to level your cakes with a serrated knife before slicing and assembling. For extra precision, weigh your batter before dividing it among the pans—this is my secret for professionally even layers in a Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe!

Can I double the Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Double all the ingredients and divide into four pans for two impressive double-layer cakes, or stack all four layers high for an extra-tall centerpiece. Just keep an eye on baking times, as thick layers may need a bit longer in the oven.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the mix contains xanthan gum for stability, and all other components remain the same—your gluten-free Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe will be just as delightful!

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe is pure celebration on a plate, and I can’t wait for you to see just how special homemade cake can be. Gather your favorite people, brew some coffee, and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of chocolate-cherry bliss—you’ll be glad you did!

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