Enchanted Chocolate Grove

Here’s a rich and indulgent Enchanted Chocolate Grove recipe, inspired by the classic Black Forest Cake but with an extra chocolatey twist!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee or hot water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup cherry juice or syrup
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp kirsch (cherry brandy) (optional)

For the Whipped Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

For Decoration:

• 1 cup whipped cream (for piping, optional)
• ½ cup chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh cherries (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add hot coffee (or water) and mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, cherry juice, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in kirsch (if using), then remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Whipped Chocolate Ganache Frosting

1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat.
2. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
3. Let cool for about 30 minutes, then whip with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache frosting.
2. Spoon half of the cherry filling over the frosting.
3. Place the second cake layer on top. Spread more ganache frosting over the top and sides.
4. Pipe whipped cream around the edges (if using) and top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
• Slice and enjoy your Chocolate Forest Cake!

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