Cherry Chocolate Dream Cake

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the buttermilk.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Stir in the boiling water (batter will be thin).
5. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

1. In a small bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, fresh or frozen cherries (if using), and kirsch (if using). Set aside.

3. Make the Ganache:

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer (don’t boil!).
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool to thicken slightly.

4. Whip the Cream (Optional):

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

5. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling over the top.
2. Add the second cake layer. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
3. (Optional) Pipe whipped cream around the edges and top with extra cherries or chocolate shavings.

6. Chill and Serve:

• Let the cake set in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to firm up slightly.

This cake is rich, indulgent, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser! What’s your favorite part—cherries, chocolate, or that dreamy ganache? 😍