Introduction
The Black Forest Bundt Cake with Cherry Glaze is an exquisite take on the traditional Black Forest Cake. This indulgent dessert combines the deep flavors of chocolate cake and tart cherries, beautifully finished with a luscious cherry glaze. Ideal for romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day, this cake is also perfect for any celebration that deserves a decadent treat.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
250g all-purpose flour
75g cocoa powder
300g granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
240ml whole milk
120ml vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
240ml boiling water
300g pitted cherries, fresh or canned
200ml heavy cream
200g dark chocolate, chopped
For the Cherry Glaze:
150g powdered sugar
60ml cherry juice (reserved from the canned cherries or fresh)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
To make this velvety cake, start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing and flouring a bundt pan. Combine dry ingredients in one bowl and mix the wet ingredients in another before combining them together. Add in your cherries and pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick tests clean.
Cool the cake before drizzling with a delightful cherry glaze made from powdered sugar and cherry juice. For an added touch, pour a rich chocolate ganache over the top for an irresistible finish. Each slice of this cake brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the tangy sweetness of cherries, making it a crowd-pleaser and a memorable dessert for any occasion.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and ensure to grease and flour a bundt pan generously to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to create a smooth mixture.
3. Combine wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined for a rich batter.
5. Add boiling water
Carefully stir in the boiling water, allowing the batter to become smooth and manageable.
6. Incorporate cherries
Gently fold in the pitted cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
7. Pour into bundt pan
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even finish.
8. Bake
Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
9. Cool cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring a fluffy texture.
10. Make cherry glaze
For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, cherry juice, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency.
11. Drizzle glaze
Once the cake is cool, drizzle the cherry glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation.
12. Prepare chocolate ganache
Heat the heavy cream until it just begins to boil, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until you have a glossy, smooth ganache.
13. Pour chocolate ganache
Gently pour the chocolate mixture over the cake, allowing it to flow down the sides. Let it set for a few minutes to create a decadent finish.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
This cake is best served at room temperature and pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again for the best texture.
Cherry Options
For a fresher taste, you can opt for fresh cherries instead of canned, or mix in some chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor.
Baking Time Variations
Ovens may vary; check for doneness a few minutes early, especially if using a dark bundt pan, which may cook faster.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
Ensure that the wet and dry ingredients are combined gradually to prevent lumps in the batter. Mix until just combined to retain a light texture.
Folding in Ingredients
When incorporating pitted cherries, gently fold them into the batter to avoid breaking them and to maintain their shape.
Bake Evenly
To achieve an even bake, settle the bundt pan in the center of the oven. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking.
Cake Cooling
Let the cake cool in the bundt pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. This helps avoid breakage and gives the cake time to set.
Glazing Techniques
Drizzle the cherry glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to naturally flow down the sides for an appealing presentation.
Chocolate Ganache Preparation
Heat the cream until just boiling before adding the chocolate. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes to soften, ensuring a smooth ganache.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Just ensure they are pitted before adding them to the batter.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Can this cake be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to three days.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter, canola oil, or coconut oil for a different flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
The Black Forest Bundt Cake with Cherry Glaze is a delectable dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and cherries into a stunning presentation. This cake not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also elevates any celebration with its richness and elegance. Whether for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, this treat is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Layered Chocolate Cherry Cake
Create a layered version of this cake by baking two rounds of chocolate cake and filling them with cherry compote and whipped cream for a show-stopping dessert.
Cherry Chocolate Chip Muffins
Transform the flavors into a morning treat by making muffins filled with chocolate chips and chunks of cherries to enjoy with your coffee.
Chocolate Cherry Pudding Parfait
Layer chocolate pudding, cherry pie filling, and whipped cream in a glass for an easy and elegant dessert parfait.
Chocolate Cherry Smoothie Bowl
Blend cocoa powder, frozen cherries, and milk to create a rich smoothie, then top with granola and fresh cherries for a nutritious breakfast option.
Chocolate Cherry Tart
Craft a chocolate tart shell and fill it with cherry filling, topped with whipped cream for a fresh take on classic flavors.
