Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for indulgence and sweet treats, and one dessert that always stands out in our family is the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake. This delightful cake perfectly combines rich chocolate, creamy cream cheese, and tart cherries, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. I remember the first time I made this cake; the moment it came out of the oven, my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The aroma of chocolate filled our home, and as we sliced into it, the layers revealed a beautiful contrast of colors and flavors that left everyone in awe. This cake has since become a cherished tradition, making appearances at birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings, bringing smiles to our faces with every bite.

Ingredients

Chocolate Bundt Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee

Cream Cheese Layer:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cherry Filling:

• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

Instructions

To Make the Chocolate Bundt Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan with butter and flour or baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a stand mixer, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt on low speed until fully combined.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture in the stand mixer, mixing on low speed. Once combined, slowly add the hot coffee and mix until just combined. Set aside.

To Make the Cream Cheese Layer:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

To Prepare the Cherry Layer:

1. Separate the Cherries:
   Using a large-hole strainer, separate the cherries from the glaze. Set the cherries aside and reserve the glaze for later use.

To Assemble and Bake:

1. Mix Cherries with Batter:
   Stir half of the strained cherries into the chocolate cake batter.
2. Layer the Cake:
   Pour 1/3 of the chocolate cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Carefully spoon the cream cheese layer over the cake batter. Next, add the remaining strained cherries over the cream cheese layer to create a cherry layer. Finally, pour the remaining chocolate cake batter over the cherries.
3. Bake:
   Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
4. Cool:
   Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing. If you’re concerned about sticking, carefully remove the cake from the pan after 15 minutes.
5. Glaze:
   Once cooled, drizzle the cake with the reserved cherry filling glaze for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve slices of the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake on dessert plates.
• Garnish each slice with additional cherry pie filling or whipped cream for an extra touch.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup for added decadence.
• Enjoy with a hot beverage, such as coffee or cocoa.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough cake texture.
3. Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version of this cake.
5. Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Different Fruit Filling: Substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry, raspberry, or even peach for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey cake.
• Mint Chocolate Version: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cake batter for a refreshing minty flavor.
• Frosting: Top the cooled cake with a chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar instead of the cherry glaze.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Parties: This cake makes a stunning centerpiece for any holiday dessert table.
• Family Gatherings: Share this cake with family and friends during get-togethers or potlucks.
• Gift Idea: Wrap slices in decorative boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts for loved ones.
• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice of cake with your morning coffee for a special breakfast.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Cake: Store the wrapped cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?
   Yes, you can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe; just ensure it’s a similar quantity to what’s required for a box mix.
2. What can I use if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
   You can substitute with regular chocolate chips or omit them altogether.
3. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
4. Can I make this cake a day in advance?
   Yes, the flavors often develop beautifully overnight, making it a great option to prepare ahead of time.
5. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
   Make sure to grease the bundt pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray and flour the pan well.
6. What should I do if my cream cheese layer is lumpy?
   Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature and beat it well to make it smooth before adding other ingredients.
7. Can I make a mini version of this cake?
   Yes, use a mini bundt pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.
8. What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
   You can use a standard round cake pan, but the presentation will be different.
9. How can I add more cherry flavor?
   Stir in additional cherry pie filling into the batter for a more pronounced cherry flavor.
10. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
    Yes, this cake freezes well, especially if wrapped properly.

Conclusion

The Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with creamy, tangy cream cheese and sweet cherries. It’s an impressive cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to birthdays. The beautiful layers and festive appearance make it a centerpiece on any dessert table. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your baking adventure! Happy baking!

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