If you’re searching for a dessert that beautifully balances rich, fudgy chocolate with the bright, tart burst of cherries, you have to try this incredible Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe. This luscious torte boasts a moist, tender crumb enriched by cocoa and a hint of coffee, while pockets of cherry pie filling add delightful juiciness in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe makes a stunning and unforgettable treat that’s totally worth the effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe are simple staples that come together to create an extraordinary flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the cocoa powder giving depth, to the cherries adding a punch of fruity brightness, making this dessert truly special.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the torte’s tender crumb.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives a rich, deep chocolate flavor that’s not overly sweet.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the torte rise evenly and stay light.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Enhances the leavening for a soft texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates the sweetness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to a fine crumb.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and tenderness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends warmth and depth to the chocolate.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture, keeping the torte soft.
- ½ cup hot water or brewed coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and ensures smooth batter.
- 1 cup canned cherry pie filling: The star ingredient adding juicy chunks of sweet-tart cherries.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional): Extra melty chocolate pockets for indulgence.
- Powdered sugar or whipped cream for garnish: Finishing touches for presentation and flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan to keep your torte from sticking. Then, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to evenly distribute all the leavening agents and flavors.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter along with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, ensuring your torte isn’t dense but delightfully tender.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will give your torte a beautiful aromatic base that complements the chocolate and cherries.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Mix in the buttermilk and hot water or brewed coffee gradually. The coffee adds an unexpected richness to the chocolate without making it taste like coffee, but hot water works great if you prefer. Don’t worry if your batter looks thin – that’s just right for this torte.
Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Cherry Filling
Gently fold your dry mixture into the wet until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the torte tough. Then carefully fold in the cherry pie filling and mini chocolate chips if you’re using them. The cherries will create juicy surprises throughout your torte that everyone will love.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your greased pan and pop it in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Your torte is done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. After baking, allow it to cool completely in the pan before removing so it holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Chocolate Cherry Torte truly shine at the table, try topping it with extra cherry pie filling for a glossy, fresh look. Alternatively, dusting with powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal. For that extra touch of decadence, a dollop of whipped cream is irresistible.
Side Dishes
This torte pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of freshly whipped cream. For brunch or afternoon tea, serve alongside fresh berries or a cup of robust black coffee to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your torte into generous wedges and arrange on a rustic wooden board with fresh cherries scattered around for a charming presentation. You can also pipe whipped cream rosettes on the top edge or drizzle melted chocolate over each slice for a dramatic dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the Chocolate Cherry Torte covered at room temperature for up to two days to keep it moist and fresh. Alternatively, refrigerate it in an airtight container where it will stay good for up to five days without drying out.
Freezing
This torte freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
For a just-baked taste, warm individual slices briefly in the microwave or oven. This enhances the chocolatey aroma and softens the torte, making it taste freshly baked and gooey, especially if you add a cold scoop of ice cream on top.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be simmered with a bit of sugar and lemon juice to create a similar filling. Just be sure to cook them down until slightly thickened before folding into the batter.
Is it necessary to use coffee or can I substitute something else?
Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically, but if you’re not a fan, hot water works perfectly fine without altering the overall taste much.
Can I make this torte gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures the same. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best texture.
How do I know when the torte is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can dry out this tender dessert, so start checking around 30 minutes.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to bake immediately for maximum rise and texture, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Give it a gentle stir before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe is truly a standout dessert that combines simple ingredients to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll want to make again and again. From the velvety chocolate base to the juicy bursts of cherry, every bite feels like a special celebration. Give it a try the next time you want to treat yourself or impress friends – it’s a deliciously rewarding experience you won’t regret.
Print
Chocolate Cherry Torte Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and moist Chocolate Cherry Torte combines deep chocolate flavor with sweet cherry pie filling, creating a decadent dessert perfect for holidays or special occasions. The addition of brewed coffee enhances the chocolate taste, while optional mini chocolate chips add texture and extra indulgence. Easy to prepare and topped with powdered sugar or whipped cream, this torte is sure to delight any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup hot water or brewed coffee
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup canned cherry pie filling (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar or whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes several minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the buttermilk and the hot water or brewed coffee to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. The batter may appear thin, which is normal and contributes to the torte’s moist texture.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Add Cherry Filling and Chocolate Chips: Carefully fold in the cherry pie filling and mini chocolate chips, if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Torte: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Remove the torte from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing to avoid breaking.
- Decorate and Serve: Top the cooled torte with extra cherry pie filling, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Using coffee enhances the depth of the chocolate flavor, but hot water is a fine substitute if preferred or for a caffeine-free option.
- For an extra indulgent touch, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- This torte can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
