Elegant Chocolate Forest Cake - A decadent treat layered with cherries, whipped cream, and topped with chocolate shavings. |
Are you looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests? This Elegant Chocolate Forest Cake is a deliciously rich and light cake, filled with juicy cherries and whipped cream. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake will surely be a hit!
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (chilled)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Additional cherries (for decoration)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale (about 5 minutes). Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
4. Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water, then add this to the cherries. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool completely.
6. Whip the Cream:
In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
7. Assemble the Cake:
Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the cherry filling, followed by half of the whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining cherry filling and whipped cream.
8. Decorate:
Garnish with extra cherries and chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Final Thoughts:
This decadent Chocolate Forest Cake is a perfect balance of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and light whipped cream. It’s ideal for celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself to something special. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite!
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