Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake
Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake is a delicious treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the sweet, tart taste of fresh cherries. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a simple family gathering. The soft cake, loaded with chocolate chips and juicy cherries, is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake. First, it is easy to prepare and bake. You don’t need fancy equipment or ingredients. Second, the combination of cherries and chocolate creates a unique flavor that is hard to resist. Finally, this cake looks great on a table, making it a wonderful dessert for parties or special occasions.
How to Make Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the halved cherries and chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the cake as is, or dust with powdered sugar for extra charm. Enjoy each delicious slice!
How to Serve Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake
You can serve Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake in many ways. It’s delightful on its own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Dusting the top with powdered sugar gives it an elegant look. This cake is great for coffee breaks or dessert after dinner.
How to Store Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake
Store any leftover Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Cherry-Chocolate Delight Cake
- Fresh Cherries: Use ripe, fresh cherries for the best flavor. You can also use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful when folding in the cherries and chocolate chips. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. You can also substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different taste.
FAQs
Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried cherries can be used, but they may not provide the same juicy texture. You might want to soak them in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
What can I do with leftover cake?
Leftover cake can be enjoyed as is, or you can crumble it and use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. It also makes a tasty addition to breakfast when paired with coffee!