Introduction: This luxurious chocolate-cherry layered dessert combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries and the sweetness of a cookie-like crust. Perfect for indulgent celebrations or as a special treat, this cake is topped with silky chocolate ganache, chocolate chips, and juicy cherries for an elegant finish.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 ½ cups crushed chocolate cookies or brownies (for a layered base)
- ½ cup melted butter (for crust)
For the Cookie Layer:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- ¾ cup chocolate chips
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the Toppings:
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries (pitted)
- Extra chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the crushed cookies or brownies with the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes and set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just starts to simmer (don’t let it boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Spread the ganache over the cooled cookie layer.
4. Add the Toppings:
- While the ganache is still soft, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
- Add cherries (either maraschino or fresh) generously to the top.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours to let the ganache set.
- Slice and serve your decadent chocolate-cherry layered cake!
This rich, multi-textured dessert is sure to impress your guests with its blend of flavors and presentation. Enjoy!