Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake with Caramel Drizzle: A Dessert Lover’s Dream

Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate, cherries, and caramel with this stunning layered cake. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself, this cake combines moist chocolate layers, a creamy filling, and a luscious caramel drizzle. Topped with juicy cherries, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. Follow this easy recipe to create your own decadent chocolate cherry cake!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (90g) cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee (or hot water)

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups (260g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Drizzle:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (90ml) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

For Decoration:

• Fresh cherries
• Extra caramel for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Stir in the hot coffee (or water). The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist cake.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Allow the filling to cool slightly, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to thicken.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Drizzle

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a deep amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until fully melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, being cautious as the mixture will bubble.
3. Remove from heat and let the caramel cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of chocolate filling on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and spread a thin layer of chocolate filling on top for smoothness.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Arrange fresh cherries on top of the cake for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cherries and around the base of the cake for a finishing touch.
3. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for clean layers.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for the cake batter to ensure even mixing.
• Allow the caramel to cool slightly before drizzling to prevent it from running too thin.
• For added flavor, brush the cake layers with cherry syrup before assembling.
• Use a hot knife to cut clean slices, wiping it between cuts for a professional look.

Conclusion

This Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake with Caramel Drizzle is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With its moist layers, creamy filling, and rich caramel, it’s guaranteed to be the star of your dessert table. Try this recipe for your next special occasion and wow your guests with this indulgent masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your creations online—happy baking!