Craving a decadent treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate and sweet cherries? I’ve got just the recipe for you – a luscious chocolate cherry bundt cake that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This delightful dessert combines the indulgent flavors of chocolate with the fruity goodness of cherries, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s simply irresistible.
In this recipe article, I’ll guide you through the steps to create this moist and flavorful chocolate cherry bundt cake. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious dessert, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a stunning homemade cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting the pan
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing the pan
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 can (21 oz) of cherry pie filling
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting the cake
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting the baking process for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Equipment
As I prepare to make this delectable chocolate cherry bundt cake in my kitchen, having the right equipment ready is crucial for a smooth baking experience. Here’s a list of essential tools and utensils you will need to create this delicious dessert:
- Bundt cake pan
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
- Silicone spatula
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts or kitchen towels
- Skewer or toothpick (for testing cake doneness)
- Serving platter or cake stand
Having these items on hand will ensure that your baking process is efficient and enjoyable. Now that we have all our equipment ready, let’s move on to the next steps of creating this irresistible chocolate cherry bundt cake.
Instructions
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cake
To start making the chocolate cherry cake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt cake pan with butter and dust it with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
In another bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 3 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of pitted and halved cherries.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
For the cream cheese glaze, whisk together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
How to Decorate a Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake
To decorate the chocolate cherry bundt cake, sprinkle some extra halved cherries on top of the glazed cake for a fresh and vibrant look. You can also dust the cake with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance. Serve slices of the cake on a beautiful platter or cake stand for a stunning presentation.
Tips and Tricks
Baking a perfect chocolate cherry bundt cake can be a delightful experience with a few handy tips and tricks to ensure success. Here are some essential guidelines to elevate your bundt cake baking game.
How to Properly Grease a Bundt Pan
Before pouring your cake batter into the bundt pan, ensure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking. I recommend using a baking spray with flour or brushing the pan generously with melted butter, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated. A properly greased pan guarantees a smooth release, maintaining the cake’s intricate design.
How to Make a Boxed Cake Taste Homemade
To transform a boxed cake mix into a delicious homemade-like creation, consider adding extra ingredients for enhanced flavor and texture. I suggest incorporating ingredients like sour cream, buttermilk, or a touch of vanilla extract to enrich the cake’s taste. Additionally, mixing in chocolate chips or chopped nuts can elevate the cake’s texture and add a delightful crunch. Experiment with these additions to create a unique and flavorful chocolate cherry bundt cake that tastes like it was made from scratch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Planning to make this chocolate cherry bundt cake in advance? Here’s how you can prepare ahead and freeze it for later enjoyment.
Can This Cake Be Made in Advance and Frozen?
Yes, you can definitely make this chocolate cherry bundt cake in advance and freeze it for later. To do so, follow these simple steps:
- Once the cake has completely cooled after baking, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to prevent any odors from seeping in.
- Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. You can also bring it to room temperature before serving if preferred.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious chocolate cherry bundt cake even on busy days by preparing it in advance and freezing it for later indulgence.
Serving and Storing
After baking and preparing this delicious chocolate cherry bundt cake, it’s time to focus on serving it elegantly and storing it for future indulgence.
Serving:
- Once the cake is baked, cooled, and glazed, slice it with a sharp knife to reveal the beautiful layers of chocolate and cherry.
- Plate each slice on a dessert plate and garnish with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a delightful presentation.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
Storing:
- To store any leftover cake, ensure it is completely cooled.
- Wrap the remaining cake slices tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.
- Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or a resealable bag, ensuring there is no exposure to air.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.
- For longer-term storage, the cake can be frozen. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Microwave individual slices for a quick thawing option.
By following these serving and storing instructions, you can enjoy the delectable chocolate cherry bundt cake at its best, whether for an immediate treat or a make-ahead dessert option.
Conclusion
In crafting the perfect chocolate cherry bundt cake, attention to detail is key. From greasing the pan to adding personal touches, each step contributes to a delightful homemade treat. Serving this cake with flair elevates the dining experience, offering a visual feast before the first bite. Proper storage ensures that every slice maintains its freshness, allowing for indulgence over several days. With these tips in mind, creating and savoring a chocolate cherry bundt cake becomes a joyous culinary adventure.