Decadent Cherry Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

This Cherry Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe combines rich chocolate layers with a luscious cherry filling, creating a delightful dessert perfect for celebrations. The balance of sweet cherries and chocolate makes it a favorite among cake lovers.

The cake recipe is straightforward, featuring simple techniques that yield impressive results. Ideal for birthdays or special occasions, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

Delicious Cherry Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

This cake features moist chocolate layers filled with a cherry compote and frosted with a creamy chocolate ganache. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 10-12 people.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 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
1 jar (12 oz) cherry preserves
1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (for ganache)
Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.
Bake the Cakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely on wire racks.
Prepare the Ganache: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread cherry preserves over the top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate ganache.
Garnish: Decorate with fresh cherries if desired. Slice and serve.