Description
A sophisticated take on the classic German gateau, this recipe features a moist, coffee-enhanced chocolate sponge layered with a spirited cherry filling. It combines traditional European elegance with accessible techniques for a truly impressive dessert centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups white sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar (sour milk)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cold
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- 1/4 cup cherry liqueur (Kirschwasser)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
- Prepare the sour milk by combining the milk and vinegar in a small vessel and letting it sit for 5 minutes until curdled.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to ensure an airy texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, cold coffee, and vanilla extract until uniform, then stir in the sour milk.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and beat gradually until the flour disappears, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely in their pans before attempting to remove them.
- Combine the cherry pie filling with the cherry liqueur in a bowl and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
- Place one cooled cake layer on a platter, spread the chilled cherry mixture over the top, and cover with the second cake layer.
Notes
For the best results, ensure the cake layers are completely cold before assembly to prevent the cherry filling from sliding. You can enhance the presentation by adding a layer of stiffly whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings to the top and sides of the cake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German