Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the sweet and tart taste of cherries. It’s a cake that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine, making it perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or just a special treat for yourself. The layers of chocolate cake, cherry filling, and creamy chocolate frosting create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its amazing flavor combination. The chocolate cake is moist and rich, while the cherry filling adds a fruity brightness that balances sweetness. The creamy chocolate filling makes this cake even more indulgent. Plus, making this cake is a fun activity, whether you’re baking solo or with family and friends. It’s sure to impress anyone who gets a slice!

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

Ingredients:

1 3⁄4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
1 1⁄2 tsp baking powder
1 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
3⁄4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1⁄2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
1⁄2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1 cup (240ml) boiling water
2 cups (300g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1⁄2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (for cherry filling)
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract (for cherry filling)
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (for creamy filling)
1⁄4 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (for creamy filling)
1⁄2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and cooled
1⁄2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)
2 tbsp heavy cream (for topping)
Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and vegetable oil; mix until smooth. Gradually stir in boiling water until batter is smooth. Pour evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
For the cherry filling, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes. Cool to room temperature.
For the creamy chocolate filling, beat cream cheese until smooth. In another bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, then add melted chocolate and fold until combined.
Once cooled, slice each cake in half to create four layers. Alternate spreading creamy chocolate filling and cherry filling between layers.
For the topping, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Remove, add chocolate chips, and stir until smooth. Pour over the cake.
Garnish with fresh cherries and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is best served chilled. Slice it into wedges and enjoy it as a decadent dessert. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

You can store the Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep it for a longer time, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just thaw and decorate when you’re ready to serve!

Tips to Make Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure better mixing.
You can use either fresh or frozen cherries for the filling, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
Let the chocolate melt slowly to avoid burning and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the frosting.

Variation

You can add nuts like chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture. If you want to keep it lighter, you could skip the creamy chocolate filling and add more cherry filling instead.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Yes! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a different fruity flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.