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A moist, cocoa-rich cake studded with fresh cherries and topped with glossy ganache—this one’s for the chocolate lovers.

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s rich, fruity, and over-the-top indulgent, this Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake is here to make those sweet wishes come true. It’s got everything: a tender cocoa crumb, juicy bursts of cherry in every bite, and a silky dark chocolate ganache that drapes over the top like a decadent hug.

Whether you’re baking for a dinner party, Valentine’s Day, or just a cozy weekend treat, this cake hits the spot every time.

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Ingredients 🛒

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
• 1 tsp baking powder 🧪
• ½ tsp baking soda 🧂
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 🌼
• ½ cup buttermilk 🥛
• ½ cup hot water 🌊
• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved 🍒

For the Topping:

• 1 cup dark chocolate ganache (see pro tip below) 🍫
• Fresh cherries, for garnish 🍒

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Instructions 👩‍🍳

1️⃣ Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

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2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.

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3️⃣ Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

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4️⃣ Combine Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture in 3 parts, starting and ending with the dry mix.
Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and silky.

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5️⃣ Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the pitted, halved cherries to distribute them evenly.

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6️⃣ Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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7️⃣ Decorate

Once cool, pour the dark chocolate ganache over the cake and gently spread it to the edges.
Top with fresh cherries for a gorgeous, juicy finish.

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Pro Tips 🌟

• Extra Indulgence: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
• Ganache Tip: Make a simple ganache by heating ½ cup heavy cream until just simmering, then pouring it over ½ cup chopped dark chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and shiny.
• Storage: Keep cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.

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Serving Suggestions & Styling

• Plate on a dark slate or black cake stand to make those cherries pop.
• Drizzle extra ganache down the sides for a dramatic look.
• Add a dusting of cocoa powder or edible gold flakes for a festive touch!

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Rich, fruity, and totally dreamy—this Cherry Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence.

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