Chocolate cake with cottage cheese & cherries

This Chocolate and Cherry Layer Cake is a showstopper for any occasion! Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just because it's Tuesday, this dessert will captivate your guests. Serve each slice with a gently dollop of whipped cream on the side to enhance the creamy texture even further.

If you're up for a bit more decadence, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over each slice just before serving. The added richness pairs beautifully with the tangy cherry filling. Another fun idea? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream! It brings a cool, creamy contrast to the intense chocolate and cherry flavors.

For a more sophisticated touch, you can pair this cake with a glass of ruby port or a rich, full-bodied red wine. The cake's complex flavors meld wonderfully with the depth of the wine, offering a luxurious end to any meal.

And for those summer gatherings, consider serving this cake chilled from the fridge. It's incredibly refreshing and the flavors seem to pop even more!

Gluten-Free Variation: Simply replace the flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients, such as baking powder and powdered sugar, are certified gluten-free.

Vegan Variation: Substitute the butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil. Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) in place of the regular eggs. Use a dairy-free sour cream, such as one made from coconut or soy, and replace the curd and mascarpone with cashew cream or tofu.