Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries
Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Indulge in the rich decadence of Dark Chocolate Cake paired with the tangy sweetness of balsamic cherries.
This Dark Chocolate Cake is not just a treat for the eyes but also for the palate. The addition of balsamic cherries takes this classic dessert to a whole new level, creating a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with tangy balsamic cherries
- Moist and decadent texture that satisfies every sweet tooth
- Perfect for special occasions or a delightful everyday dessert
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Dark chocolate is a staple in dessert recipes, loved for its deep, rich flavor. When combined with the tartness of balsamic cherries, it creates a perfect balance that excites the palate. The acidity from the balsamic vinegar enhances the sweetness of the cherries, providing a delightful contrast to the dense chocolate cake. This interplay of flavors makes each bite of the cake an experience to savor, making it an unforgettable treat for chocolate lovers.
Furthermore, the addition of balsamic cherries not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds a beautiful visual element to the cake. The glossy sheen of the cherries atop the frosting draws the eye and sets the stage for a decadent dessert that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. This dish is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion.
A Moist and Irresistible Cake
One of the standout features of this dark chocolate cake is its moist and tender crumb. The combination of ingredients, including whole milk and vegetable oil, contributes to a cake that remains soft and flavorful even days after baking. The inclusion of boiling water in the batter ensures that the cocoa powder is well dissolved, resulting in a rich chocolate flavor that permeates every slice.
For those who worry about the aftermath of indulging in desserts, this cake stands out as a guilt-free option due to its use of fresh ingredients. Made with eggs, whole milk, and natural sugar, it feels less like a guilty pleasure and more like a celebration of good ingredients. This cake is perfect for any occasion, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.
Tips for the Best Results
To achieve the best results with this dark chocolate cake, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can lead to different outcomes. Use a kitchen scale for the most precise measurements, especially for ingredients like flour and sugar. Additionally, bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing can help create a smoother batter that rises evenly.
When baking, it's essential to keep an eye on the cakes as they cook. Ovens can vary, so checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time can prevent overbaking. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Once cooled, the cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for a day, allowing the flavors to meld even more before frosting.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Balsamic Cherries
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and prepare for baking!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Balsamic Cherries
In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the cherries are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Set aside to cool.
Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Add heavy cream and vanilla, and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top and half of the balsamic cherries. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Let the cake set for a bit before slicing. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This dark chocolate cake with balsamic cherries is a showstopper on its own, but there are a few serving suggestions that can enhance the experience. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate. The cold temperature of the ice cream will complement the warmth of the cake beautifully, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
For an extra touch of elegance, serve slices of the cake with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt. This small addition can elevate the dessert to gourmet status and impress your guests. Whether it's a birthday celebration or a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to be the highlight of the meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover cake, storing it properly is key to maintaining its deliciousness. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This will help preserve the moisture and flavor for several days. The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a perfect treat for those spontaneous cravings after dinner.
If you want to keep the cake for an extended period, consider freezing it. To freeze, wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This method can keep the cake fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and frost them the day you plan to serve.
→ What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
You can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries
Indulge in the rich decadence of Dark Chocolate Cake paired with the tangy sweetness of balsamic cherries.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Balsamic Cherries
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the cherries are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Add heavy cream and vanilla, and beat for an additional 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top and half of the balsamic cherries. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with remaining balsamic cherries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g