Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries

Name: Dark Chocolate Cake Balsamic Cherries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted; ¼ cup balsamic vinegar; ¼ cup sugar

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Indulge in the rich flavors of this decadent dark chocolate cake paired with tart balsamic cherries.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:43:27.577Z

This Dark Chocolate Cake is a perfect blend of rich chocolate and the tangy sweetness of balsamic cherries. It's an exquisite dessert for any occasion!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Intensely rich chocolate flavor complemented by tangy balsamic cherries
Moist and fluffy cake texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for special occasions or as a lavish treat

      

The Perfect Pairing of Flavors

This Dark Chocolate Cake with Balsamic Cherries is a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. The intense richness of the dark chocolate cake brings a depth that is beautifully balanced by the tartness of the balsamic cherries. This unique combination not only enhances the overall dessert experience but also creates an unforgettable taste sensation that will have your guests raving.

The balsamic cherries add a gourmet touch to this classic dessert, making it suitable for special occasions. Their tangy sweetness cuts through the richness of the chocolate, offering a refreshing contrast that elevates each bite. It's a perfect example of how contrasting flavors can work harmoniously together, resulting in a cake that feels both indulgent and sophisticated.

A Cake for Every Celebration

Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or simply a gathering with friends, this Dark Chocolate Cake with Balsamic Cherries is an excellent choice. Its impressive appearance and delightful flavors make it a showstopper on any dessert table. The layers of rich chocolate and glistening cherries are sure to catch the eye and spark conversations.

Moreover, this cake can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual get-together, serve it simply with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more formal event, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for added elegance. No matter how you serve it, this cake is bound to impress.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this recipe, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures a light, fluffy cake. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the wet ingredients. Mixing just until combined will help keep the cake tender and avoid a dense texture.

When preparing the balsamic cherries, feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference and the tartness of the cherries. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cherry mixture. These small tweaks can personalize the recipe and make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Balsamic Cherries

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

Mix all ingredients well before baking.

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.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Gradually stir in boiling water until fully combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Balsamic Cherries

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pitted cherries, balsamic vinegar, and sugar. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the cherries are softened and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Top with a layer of balsamic cherries and some of the syrup. Add the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining cherries. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Dark Chocolate Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, tightly wrapped to maintain its moisture. If you wish to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that the cake may dry out slightly. For the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to serve the cake at room temperature, allowing the rich chocolate to truly shine.

When serving, slice the cake into generous pieces, and don’t hesitate to drizzle extra balsamic cherry syrup over each slice for added indulgence. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. This cake is sure to be a hit, no matter how you choose to serve it.

Variations to Try

While the combination of dark chocolate and balsamic cherries is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. For instance, you can substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter cake, or try incorporating espresso powder into the batter for a rich mocha flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

If cherries aren't in season, consider using other fruits like raspberries or strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar effect. Each variation introduces a new twist, allowing you to enjoy this cake in various delightful forms throughout the year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and assemble it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?

You can use red wine vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different.