Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries

Name: Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 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 buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; ¼ cup brown sugar

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Dark Chocolate Cake paired with tart balsamic cherries. This delightful dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and will impress at any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:54:27.681Z

This Dark Chocolate Cake is not only rich in flavor but also has a sophisticated twist with the addition of balsamic cherries. The combination of sweet and tart is a match made in dessert heaven!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart balsamic cherries
Moist texture that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Dark chocolate is well-known for its deep and intense flavor, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. When paired with tart balsamic cherries, this cake achieves a stunning balance that excites the palate. The slight acidity of the cherries cuts through the richness of the chocolate, providing a refreshing contrast that elevates every bite. This delightful interplay between sweet and tart is what makes this dessert a standout choice for any occasion.

Balsamic vinegar, often associated with savory dishes, works surprisingly well in desserts. Its unique flavor profile adds a sophisticated touch to the cherries, enhancing their natural sweetness while also introducing an intriguing depth. This unexpected combination will leave your guests curious and delighted, proving that the best recipes often come from daring to think outside the box.

A Showstopper for Any Gathering

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, holiday gathering, or a simple dinner with friends, this Dark Chocolate Cake with Balsamic Cherries is sure to impress. Not only does it taste divine, but its beautiful presentation makes it a true showstopper. The glossy cherries cascading over the rich chocolate layers will have everyone reaching for their cameras before they reach for a fork.

Moreover, the aroma of the baking cake combined with the simmering cherries creates an inviting atmosphere that draws people in. It's the kind of dessert that sparks conversations and compliments, making it an ideal centerpiece for any celebration. With each slice, you’ll be creating memories that will linger long after the last crumb has been enjoyed.

Tips for Success

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small discrepancies can affect the final product. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients when possible, and always level off your measuring cups. Additionally, allow your eggs and buttermilk to come to room temperature for a smoother batter, which contributes to a moist and tender cake.

When making the balsamic cherries, be patient during the cooking process. Allowing the mixture to simmer for the full 10 minutes will help to achieve the right consistency, ensuring that the cherries are nicely coated and the flavors meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step, as it’s key to capturing that perfect balance of sweet and tangy that complements the chocolate cake.

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 buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Balsamic Cherries

2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
½ cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Balsamic Cherries

In a saucepan, combine pitted cherries, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of balsamic cherries on top, then add the second layer. Top with more cherries and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.

Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Dark Chocolate Cake with Balsamic Cherries can be served on its own, but consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the cake beautifully, creating a luxurious dessert experience. You might also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a gourmet touch that enhances the flavors even further.

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving individual slices on small dessert plates, garnished with a few whole cherries and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This attention to detail will impress your guests and make your dessert table look even more enticing.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing the cake properly is essential to maintain its moisture and flavor. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, allow it to come to room temperature or gently reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds.

The balsamic cherries can also be stored separately in a jar in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about a week, allowing you to enjoy them with other desserts or even as a topping for yogurt or pancakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.