Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake with Almond Frosting

Treat yourself to this Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake with Almond Frosting, an indulgent dessert that features rich chocolate layers, fresh cherries, and a silky almond buttercream. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful afternoon treat!

Ingredients:
For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherries:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons amaretto syrup

For the Frosting:

• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon almond extract
• 10 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 8-10 cups powdered sugar
• 5-6 tablespoons amaretto syrup
• 3-4 tablespoons milk
• Shaved unsweetened chocolate, for garnish (optional)

Instructions/Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, vanilla extract, and boiling water to the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth.
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cherries:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced cherries, water, sugar, and amaretto syrup. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes to soften the cherries.
   • Drain and pat the cherries dry, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the almond extract and amaretto syrup, blending well.
   • Mix in the cocoa powder, then gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add milk as needed.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place the first layer of cake on a turntable and spread about 1 cup of frosting on top. Layer half of the prepared cherries over the frosting.
   • Add the second cake layer and repeat the process with more frosting and the remaining cherries.
   • Place the final cake layer on top, then frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting. Garnish with shaved unsweetened chocolate if desired.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12

FAQ:

• Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh? Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
• What can I substitute for amaretto syrup? You can use almond extract or simple syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
• How should I store leftovers? Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:
This Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake with Almond Frosting is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, combining the flavors of chocolate and cherries with a nutty almond twist. Your guests will be asking for seconds!