Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Ultimate Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake Recipe is a stunning dessert that combines rich chocolate with sweet, tart cherries for a truly decadent experience. It’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for celebrations or a special treat. For more delicious chocolate and cherry pairings, try the Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe or the festive Christmas No Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie Recipe.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this decadent Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake, where rich cocoa meets a sweet-tart cherry surprise, all enveloped in creamy chocolate frosting.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk)
• 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cherry filling (homemade or canned cherries)
• Chocolate frosting

Timing

Prep Time	25 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake comes together about 20% faster than similar layered chocolate cakes, thanks to a simplified assembly process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Pans and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for foolproof release.

Step 2 — Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution and a light, lump-free crumb.

Step 3 — Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk 2 cups of granulated sugar with 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until smooth and emulsified. The mixture should be glossy and uniform.

Step 4 — Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing. Gently fold in 1 cup of pitted, chopped fresh cherries, reserving a handful for garnish. The batter will be thick.

Tip: Toss the chopped cherries in a tablespoon of the measured flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.

Step 5 — Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Doneness cue: The cakes will start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pans and spring back when gently pressed in the center.

Step 6 — Cool and Prepare Frosting

Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare a chocolate ganache or buttercream frosting. For a simple ganache, heat 1 cup of heavy cream and pour it over 8 ounces of chopped dark chocolate, stirring until smooth.

Step 7 — Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting or ganache over the top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. For a rustic look, use a spatula to create swirls.

Step 8 — Garnish and Serve

Garnish the top of your Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake with the reserved fresh cherries and chocolate shavings. Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Serving tip: For an extra touch, serve each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	58 g
Fat	19 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	220 mg

Note: Nutritional values for this Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake are estimates based on typical ingredients and a standard serving size. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

This Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs without sacrificing the dreamy flavor.

• Protein Powder for Flour — Replace up to 1/3 of the all-purpose flour with unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder. This adds a protein boost and creates a slightly denser, fudgier texture that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
• Almond or Coconut Flour (Lower-Carb/Gluten-Free) — Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a direct swap. For a grain-free, lower-carb option, try a mix of almond and coconut flour (note: this will require additional binding agents like eggs and results in a more moist crumb).
• Greek Yogurt or Applesauce for Oil — Substitute an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce for half the oil or butter. This reduces fat, adds moisture, and with yogurt, contributes a subtle tang that complements the cherries.
• Natural Sweeteners — Swap refined sugar for pure maple syrup, honey, or a monk fruit blend. Reduce other liquids slightly to account for the added moisture. This offers a more complex sweetness with a lower glycemic impact.
• Dairy-Free Butter & Milk — Use high-quality plant-based butter sticks and unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk. The rich cocoa and cherry flavors shine through, making this Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake completely dairy-free.
• Dark Chocolate & Cacao — Opt for a high-percentage dark chocolate bar (70%+) and unsweetened cacao powder instead of milk chocolate or Dutch-process cocoa. This intensifies the chocolate flavor and increases antioxidants while reducing sugar.
• Low-Sodium Baking Powder — If managing sodium, look for a potassium-based baking powder. This simple swap significantly cuts sodium without affecting the cake’s rise.
• Fresh or Frozen Cherries (No Syrup) — Instead of canned cherries in syrup, use fresh pitted cherries or frozen (thawed and drained). Toss them with a little cornstarch to prevent sinking. This maximizes fruit flavor and minimizes added sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to complement the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors.
• For a decadent brunch or afternoon tea, serve smaller slices alongside a cup of dark roast coffee or a glass of cold milk.
• This Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is perfect for romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, dressed with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh cherries.
• Transform it into a stunning holiday dessert for Christmas by garnishing with edible gold leaf or festive sprinkles.
• For elegant plating, warm a slice slightly and drizzle with a simple cherry syrup or a dark chocolate ganache just before serving.
• Balance the richness with a bright, tart component like a raspberry coulis or a few fresh berries on the side.

However you choose to serve it, this Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is sure to be the centerpiece of any celebration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge. Fix: Bring butter, eggs, and dairy to room temperature for a smoother, more voluminous batter.
• Mistake: Overmixing the cake batter. Fix: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid a dense, tough crumb.
• Mistake: Not properly preparing the cherries. Fix: Thoroughly drain and pat dry canned or thawed cherries to prevent a soggy cake layer.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s not properly prepared. Fix: Always grease, line with parchment, and flour your pans to guarantee clean release.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door too early. Fix: Wait until at least the ¾ mark of baking time to check, preventing the cake from collapsing.
• Mistake: Frosting a warm cake. Fix: Let the Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake layers cool completely on a wire rack to set the crumb.
• Mistake: Using low-quality cocoa powder. Fix: Opt for a natural or Dutch-process cocoa as specified; it dramatically impacts the chocolate flavor.
• Mistake: Adding cherry juice directly to the batter. Fix: Reduce the juice into a syrup first, or use an extract to intensify flavor without extra moisture.
• Mistake: Not leveling the cake layers. Fix: Use a serrated knife or cake leveler for flat, stable tiers that frost evenly.
• Mistake: Rushing the ganache. Fix: Pour warm cream over chopped chocolate, let sit, then stir gently for a perfectly smooth, glossy finish.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store the Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake covered or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cream or frosting must be kept refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.
• Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: For a warm slice, microwave a single portion for 15-20 seconds. For the whole cake, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until just heated through.

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake at its best. Always allow it to cool completely before covering to prevent condensation.

Conclusion

We hope you love making and sharing this stunning Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake. It’s the perfect showstopper for any celebration. If you’re craving more decadent desserts, try our Decadent Black Forest Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Recipe or Homemade Churro Cheesecake Recipe. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave a comment with your results!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess liquid, which could affect the cake’s texture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before folding into the batter for the best results in your Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake.

What type of chocolate works best for this recipe?

We recommend using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or a chopped baking bar for a rich, balanced flavor. This ensures the chocolate melts smoothly into the batter, creating the decadent foundation for the Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake.

How should I store the finished cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days. Let slices come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.