Indulge in a rich and decadent treat with this classic cake. Featuring a delicate balance of chocolate and maraschino cherries, this dessert is a delightful addition to any special occasion.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, you may need to purchase unsweetened chocolate and maraschino cherries. Make sure to get quality shortening and buttermilk for the best results. The almond extract and maraschino cherry juice add unique flavors to the frosting.
Ingredients For George Washington Chocolate Cake Recipe
flour: The base that provides structure to the cake.
baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with the acidic ingredient.
salt: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
unsweetened chocolate: Provides a rich and deep chocolate flavor.
shortening: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake.
sugar: Sweetens and tenderizes the cake.
eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
water: Adds moisture to the cake batter.
buttermilk: Adds tangy flavor and tenderness.
maraschino cherries: Add a sweet and slightly tart flavor.
butter: Provides a rich and creamy base for the frosting.
confectioners' sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty flavor to the frosting.
maraschino cherry juice: Adds color and flavor to the frosting.
One reader, Jolynn Hand says:
This George Washington chocolate cake recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries creates a perfect balance. The cake is moist and flavorful, and the chocolate cherry frosting adds an extra layer of decadence. A must-try for any chocolate lover!
Baking Techniques for Perfect George Washington Chocolate Cake
Yes.
How to sift dry ingredients: Use a sifter or a fine-mesh sieve to aerate the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they are well combined and free of lumps.
How to melt chocolate using a double boiler: Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Ensure the bowl does not touch the water.
How to cream butter and sugar: Beat the shortening and sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which incorporates air and helps the cake rise.
How to alternate adding dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add portions of the flour mixture and the combined water and buttermilk to the batter, mixing just until each addition is incorporated to avoid overmixing.
How to chop cherries: Finely chop the maraschino cherries using a sharp knife, ensuring even pieces for consistent distribution in the batter.
How to cool cakes on a wire rack: After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.
How to make frosting: Combine butter, confectioners' sugar, melted chocolate, and almond extract, then cream with an electric mixer. Add cherry juice gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
How To Make George Washington Chocolate Cake
Chocolate and cherry goodness in one? This moist chocolate cake delivers decadence, with tart cherry slices, and a delectable choco-cherry frosting!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsall-purpose flour
- ½tspbaking powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspsalt
- 1ozunsweetened chocolate,(4 squares), chopped
- ½cupshortening
- 2cupswhite sugar
- 2eggs
- ¾cupwater
- ¾cupbuttermilk
- ½cupmaraschino cherries,drained, juice reserved
For Chocolate Cherry Frosting:
- 1ozunsweetened chocolate,(1 square), chopped
- ½cupbutter
- 4cupsconfectioners’ sugar
- ¼tspalmond extract
- ⅓cupmaraschino cherry juice
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 2 9-inch round pans.
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Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
-
On top of a double boiler, heat the chocolate, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and allow to cool to lukewarm.
-
In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then beat in the melted chocolate.
-
Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the water and buttermilk, mixing just until incorporated.
-
Finely chop the cherries and fold in. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
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Bake in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
-
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
Chocolate Cherry Frosting:
-
On top of a double boiler, heat the chocolate, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool to lukewarm.
-
In a large bowl, combine butter, confectioners’ sugar, melted chocolate, and almond extract. Cream with an electric mixer.
-
Add the reserved cherry juice by the tablespoon until the frosting reaches desired consistency.
-
Fill and frost the cupcakes with the chocolate cherry frosting, then serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 709.82kcal
- Fat: 19.72g
- Saturated Fat: 8.86g
- Trans Fat: 1.44g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.59g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.99g
- Carbohydrates: 131.90g
- Fiber: 1.92g
- Sugar: 112.42g
- Protein: 4.34g
- Cholesterol: 47.70mg
- Sodium: 380.64mg
- Calcium: 70.35mg
- Potassium: 183.04mg
- Iron: 2.36mg
- Vitamin A: 78.51µg
- Vitamin C: 66.40mg
Key Technique for Achieving the Best Texture in Chocolate Cake
When melting chocolate on a double boiler, make sure the water in the bottom pot is simmering gently and not boiling vigorously. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Chocolate Cake
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and prevent any last-minute searches.
Use a microwave: Melt the chocolate in the microwave instead of a double boiler. Use 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Chop cherries in advance: Finely chop the maraschino cherries ahead of time and store them in a sealed container.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
One-bowl method: Use a one-bowl method for the frosting to reduce cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For George Washington Chocolate Cake Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cake denser.
baking powder - Substitute with cream of tartar and baking soda: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar to replace 1 tsp baking powder for a similar leavening effect.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 tsp baking powder for every 1 tsp baking soda, but reduce the salt in the recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different flavor profile.
unsweetened chocolate - Substitute with cocoa powder and butter: Use 3 tbsp cocoa powder and 1 tbsp butter for each ounce of unsweetened chocolate.
shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter adds a richer flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and can be used in a 1:1 ratio.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water for each egg to make a vegan alternative.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk adds richness and can be used in the same quantity.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and vinegar: Mix 1 tbsp vinegar with enough milk to make 1 cup to mimic the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.
maraschino cherries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries can be rehydrated in water or cherry juice for a similar flavor.
unsweetened chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content can be used, though it may add some sweetness.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Blend granulated sugar in a blender to make a fine powder as a substitute.
almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract provides a different but complementary flavor.
maraschino cherry juice - Substitute with cherry syrup: Cherry syrup can be used for a similar flavor and sweetness.
How to Beautifully Present George Washington Chocolate Cake
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all all-purpose flour, unsweetened chocolate, shortening, white sugar, eggs, water, buttermilk, and maraschino cherries are of the finest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
Create a smooth batter: When mixing the flour mixture with the water and buttermilk, ensure that the batter is smooth and lump-free to achieve a consistent texture in the cake.
Chop cherries finely: Finely chop the maraschino cherries to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cake, providing bursts of flavor in every bite.
Bake to perfection: Monitor the baking process closely. Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring it is perfectly cooked without being dry.
Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the chocolate cherry frosting from melting and ensures a smooth application.
Prepare a silky frosting: When making the chocolate cherry frosting, ensure the butter and confectioners' sugar are well-creamed, and the melted chocolate is smoothly incorporated. Add the maraschino cherry juice gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.
Frost with precision: Use a spatula to apply the chocolate cherry frosting evenly over the cake layers. Smooth the frosting for a professional finish.
Garnish elegantly: Decorate the cake with whole maraschino cherries or chocolate shavings to add a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
Serve with finesse: Slice the cake cleanly with a sharp knife, ensuring each piece showcases the layers and frosting beautifully. Present on a pristine white plate to highlight the cake's rich colors.
Essential Tools for Making Chocolate Cake
Oven: Used for baking the cake at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
Double boiler: Essential for melting the chocolate gently without burning it.
9-inch round pans: These are the cake pans where the batter will be poured and baked.
Sifter: Used to sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for creaming together the shortening and sugar, and for mixing the batter.
Electric mixer: Helps in creaming the butter and sugar, and in mixing the frosting ingredients to a smooth consistency.
Spatula: Useful for folding in the chopped cherries and for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl.
Wire rack: Used for cooling the cakes completely after they are baked.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, water, and buttermilk.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring smaller quantities like baking powder, baking soda, salt, and almond extract.
Chopping board: A surface for finely chopping the maraschino cherries.
Knife: Used for chopping the maraschino cherries.
Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center of the cake.
Cooling rack: Another term for the wire rack, used for cooling the cakes.
Cake stand: Optional, but useful for assembling and serving the cake.
Frosting spatula: Used for spreading the chocolate cherry frosting evenly over the cake.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for George Washington Chocolate Cake
Allow the cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature.
To store the cake in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
If freezing the cake, it's best to freeze it unfrosted. Frost the cake after it has thawed.
To thaw a frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and let the cake come to room temperature before frosting and serving.
If you have leftover frosted cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze leftover frosted cake, place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Cake
The best way to reheat leftover george washington chocolate cake is to wrap individual slices in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the cake's moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 20-30 seconds at a time, checking after each interval to avoid overheating. If the cake seems dry, you can add a small pat of butter on top or sprinkle a few drops of water to help restore moisture.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can reheat the cake in a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice of cake on a small baking tray or piece of aluminum foil. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
If you have a steamer or a double boiler, you can use this gentle heating method to reheat the cake without drying it out. Place the cake slice in a heatproof dish and set it inside the steamer or double boiler. Steam for 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slice, until heated through.
For a tasty twist, try reheating a slice of george washington chocolate cake in a skillet with a small amount of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat, add the cake slice, and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works particularly well for cakes that are a couple of days old and have started to dry out a bit.
Interesting Trivia About George Washington Chocolate Cake
A random fact about this recipe is that it incorporates maraschino cherries, which are preserved, sweetened cherries often used in desserts and cocktails. The inclusion of maraschino cherry juice in the frosting not only adds a unique flavor but also gives the frosting a subtle pink hue, enhancing the visual appeal of the cake.
Is Making Chocolate Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The George Washington Chocolate Cake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, and eggs are staples in most kitchens, while items like unsweetened chocolate and maraschino cherries might be occasional purchases. The chocolate cherry frosting adds a luxurious touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost: $15-$20 USD for a household of 4 people.
Is George Washington Chocolate Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
The George Washington Chocolate Cake recipe is a decadent treat, but it's not particularly healthy. The cake is high in sugar, with 2 cups of white sugar in the batter and an additional 4 cups of confectioners' sugar in the frosting. It also contains a significant amount of fat from the shortening, butter, and chocolate. While the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients like eggs and buttermilk, the overall nutritional profile is not ideal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and the frosting. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead.
- Replace the shortening with a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or mashed avocado.
- Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative to increase the fiber content.
- Incorporate more fruits or vegetables into the recipe, such as grated zucchini or applesauce, to add moisture and nutrients.
- Decrease the portion size and enjoy the cake as an occasional treat rather than a regular indulgence.
Editor's Opinion on George Washington's Favorite Dessert
This recipe for George Washington chocolate cake is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and the subtle sweetness of maraschino cherries. The use of buttermilk ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the cherry-infused frosting adds a unique twist. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible for home bakers. However, using shortening might be less desirable for some; substituting with butter could enhance flavor. Overall, it's a nostalgic and flavorful cake that pays homage to classic American baking traditions.
Enhance Your George Washington Chocolate Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Chocolate Cake Recipes to Try
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with George Washington Chocolate Cake
Why trust this George Washington Chocolate Cake Recipe:
This George Washington chocolate cake recipe has been meticulously crafted to ensure a delightful baking experience. The combination of unsweetened chocolate and maraschino cherries creates a rich, unique flavor profile that stands out. The chocolate cherry frosting adds an extra layer of decadence, making it perfect for special occasions. With clear instructions and carefully selected ingredients, this recipe guarantees a moist and flavorful cake every time. Trust in the quality and enjoy a slice of history with every bite.
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