Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

Description:
The Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is a decadent dessert that combines layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherry filling, and luscious whipped chocolate frosting. Topped with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings, this indulgent treat is perfect for celebrating life’s sweetest moments.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Whipped Chocolate Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cherries
• Chocolate shavings or curls

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Slowly stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. Stir the almond extract into the cherry pie filling, if desired. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Chocolate Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cherry filling evenly on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining cherry filling over the top.
3. Frost the sides and top of the cake with the whipped chocolate frosting. Smooth with a spatula or create decorative swirls.
4. Garnish with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Tips for Success:

• Moist Cake Layers: Use buttermilk for a tender and moist crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerate the assembled cake for 1 hour before slicing to make it easier to cut clean pieces.
• Cherry Variation: Swap cherry pie filling with homemade cherry compote or fresh cherries for a fresher flavor.

Serving Recommendations:

• Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or cherry-infused tea for a complementary pairing.

Nutrition (Per Slice, ~12 servings):

Approximate values

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 37g
• Sodium: 200mg