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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- 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 mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
- Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin) and fold in the cherry pie filling until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Bake the Cakes
- Pour into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Incorporate Cream: Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream or powdered sugar if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cakes: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Garnish: If desired, top with additional cherry pie filling and fresh cherries for an elegant finish.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh cherries for the best flavor and texture.
- Cool Completely: Ensure that the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Ganache: For an extra layer of indulgence, drizzle chocolate ganache over the frosted cake before serving.
- Fruit Variations: Swap cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity twist.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans between the cake layers for added crunch.
Conclusion
The Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is a show-stopping dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the sweet-tartness of cherries in a moist, delicious cake. Perfect for any celebration or as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So gather your ingredients, bake with love, and enjoy a slice of this delightful creation!
Enjoy making and sharing your delicious Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake!
