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Black Forest-Inspired Chocolate, Vanilla Cherry & Mascarpone Layer Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Indulge in Black Forest-Inspired Chocolate Mascarpone Layer Cake

Experience the rich flavors of this Black Forest-Inspired Chocolate, Vanilla Cherry & Mascarpone Layer Cake with Chocolate Ganache, a truly indulgent dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Cakes
Cuisine German
Servings 12 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • cake pans
  • mixer
  • Spatula
  • Saucepan

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour provides the perfect structure for your cake layers.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder essential for that rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder helps the cake rise beautifully.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda enhances the cake's fluffiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt balances the sweetness in the cake.
  • 2 large eggs binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
  • 1 cup whole milk contributes to a moist, tender texture.
  • ½ cup vegetable oil keeps the cake moist and adds richness without heaviness.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract infuses a delightful flavor that complements the chocolate.
  • 1 cup boiling water activates the cocoa and creates a luscious batter.

For the Filling

  • 2 cups cherry filling (or fresh cherries) bring a burst of fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
  • ½ cup mascarpone cheese adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the layers.
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar sweetens the mascarpone filling without overpowering it.
  • 1 tablespoon milk smooths out the mascarpone mixture for easy spreading.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract complements the rich flavors of the cake and cherries.

For the Ganache

  • 8 oz semisweet chocolate creates a luscious topping that brings everything together.
  • 1 cup heavy cream the base for the ganache, giving it a silky consistency.

Instructions
 

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well-blended.
  • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
  • Carefully stir in boiling water into the batter until well combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans evenly and bake for 30-35 minutes.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Mix together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth for the filling.
  • On a serving plate, layer the first cake, spread half of the cherry filling and half of the mascarpone mixture over it.
  • Add the second cake layer on top and repeat with remaining cherry filling and mascarpone.
  • Heat heavy cream until it simmers. Pour over chopped chocolate and stir until smooth to make the ganache.
  • Pour the ganache over the assembled cake and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh cherries for best results. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Black Forest Cake, chocolate cake, chocolate ganache, Layer Cake, mascarpone dessert, vanilla cherry cake
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