Ingredients
Chocolate Sponge Cake
Cherry Filling
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, combine the *dry ingredients* (flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt). Add the eggs and vegetable oil to the mixture.
*Lightly mix* the ingredients and then add in the boiling water. Stir the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour the batter onto the tray, spreading it evenly. *Bake for 15-25 minutes* until a toothpick inserted into the center of the sponge comes out clean.
Step 2
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate, unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and cherry liqueur (if using). Heat the mixture in the microwave until everything is melted, stirring until smooth.
Add the pitted cherries and the sponge cake crumbs to the melted mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3
Place the chocolate sponge cake on a serving plate. Spread the cherry filling evenly over the cake, leaving some room at the edges.
You can cover the filling with another layer of sponge cake, *or if you prefer*, decorate with your favorite sweets and milk chocolate instead. Optionally, top with a cream cheese frosting or a ganache.
Servings
Serving Suggestions and Fun Ideas: 🌟
This “Drunken Cherry” Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience! For a visually stunning presentation, garnish the top with whole cherries dipped in chocolate—this adds a hint of sophistication and irresistible charm.
Craving a fun twist? 🎉️ Serve your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of cherry syrup. This combination will send your taste buds on a flavorful rollercoaster 🎢.
For individual servings, cut the cake into small squares and place each piece on a decorative cupcake liner. This makes them perfect for parties or quick, festive treats at home.
Don’t underestimate the joy of a warm beverage pairing ☕️. A cup of espresso or cherry-infused tea beautifully complements the rich, fruity flavors of the cake.
Equipment
Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately. Opt for heavy-duty, non-slip bowls to ease your mixing process.
Great for incorporating air and ensuring a smooth batter. A silicone or stainless steel whisk works best.
Line with parchment paper for easy release. Choose a heavy-gauge sheet to promote even baking.
This will be used to melt your filling ingredients. Ensure it's large enough to contain all components and prevent overflow.
Variations
Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations: 🌱🍰
If gluten is a no-go, substitute the regular flour with a high-quality gluten-free blend. Make sure it's a 1:1 replacement to keep the texture of the cake just right.
Want to go vegan? 🥰 For the chocolate sponge, replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed and water (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use a dairy-free butter for the filling. Opt for vegan condensed milk (yes, it exists! 🛒) and vegan dark chocolate with a high cocoa content.
Instead of cherry liqueur, use a splash of cherry juice to keep it alcohol-free. Finally, swap out the creamy frosting for a coconut whipped cream to maintain that luscious finish. 🌰
Faq
- Why did my cake turn out dry?
Make sure not to overbake the cake. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it's ready!
- Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
- How can I improve the consistency of my filling?
If your filling is too runny, allow it to cool and set a little before assembling the cake. You can also add more chocolate to thicken it.
- What's the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to a week!
- Can I add different fruits to the filling?
Sure! Feel free to experiment with raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of your favorite berries for a unique twist.
- How do I avoid air bubbles in my cake?
Tap the filled baking pan on the counter lightly before placing it in the oven. This helps release any trapped air bubbles.