Who says indulgence can't be healthy? Unleash the rich decadence of chocolate and cherries in a vegan-friendly way with this cherry chocolate cake recipe. This recipe gives a guilt-free twist to a classic treat, combining the richness of cocoa with the tanginess of fresh cherries. And as it's vegan, it is perfect for those on a dairy-free or egg-free diet.
The ingredients for this recipe are mostly pantry staples. However, you might need to look out for whole wheat pastry flour, which is a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, and raw sugar, which is less processed than white sugar. Both should be available in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. Also, dark cherries are seasonal, so you might need to check the produce section or frozen aisle.
Key Ingredients for Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
Whole wheat pastry flour: This flour is a healthier option than all-purpose flour, as it retains the wheat’s nutritious bran and germ.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This will give the cake a rich chocolate flavor.
Raw sugar: This sugar is less processed than regular white sugar, making it a healthier choice.
Coconut oil: It's a great vegan substitute for butter, providing a subtle coconut flavor.
Coffee: The flavor of coffee will enhance the taste of cocoa in the cake.
Almond extract: Gives a nutty flavor to the cake.
Cider vinegar: Acts as a leavening agent in the absence of eggs, making the cake light and fluffy.
Dark cherries: These will provide a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate flavor of the cake.
One reader, Danica Batista says:
This vegan cherry chocolate cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich cocoa and sweet cherries is divine. The cake is moist and flavorful, and the recipe is easy to follow. It's a hit with my family and friends, and I love that it's vegan-friendly. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
How to pit the cherries: Remove the pits from the cherries using a cherry pitter or a paring knife. Simply cut around the cherry to remove the pit.
How to line the cake pan with parchment paper: Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit the bottom of the cake pan. Grease the pan, then place the parchment paper in the bottom, pressing it down to adhere.
How to whisk together the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and raw sugar. Use a whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients together until well combined.
How to mix the liquid ingredients: In a separate measuring cup, combine the coconut oil, coffee, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients until well combined.
How to incorporate the cherries into the batter: Gently fold the pitted cherries into the cake batter, being careful not to overmix to avoid crushing the cherries.
How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, continue baking and retest after a few minutes.
How to serve the cake: Once the cake has cooled, it can be served warm or chilled, as desired. Cut into slices and enjoy!
How To Make Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
Indulge yourself with our guilt-free chocolate cake recipe! It’s vegan-friendly and healthy, making for the perfect decadent dessert.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupswhole wheat pastry flour
- ⅓cupunsweetened cocoa powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 1cupraw sugar,or turbinado, scant
- ½cupcoconut oil,or quality vegetable oil, melted, scant
- 1cupcoffee,cold
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ½tspalmond extract
- 2tbspcider vinegar
- 1 ¼lbdark cherries
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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Pit the cherries.
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Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar directly into the cake pan.
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In a measuring cup, measure and mix together the oil, cold coffee, almond extract, and vanilla extract.
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Pour the liquid mixture into the baking pan and mix the batter with a fork or a small whisk until it is smooth.
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Add the vinegar and stir quickly. Stir just until the vinegar is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Mix in the cherries with minimal stirring.
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Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Set aside to cool.
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Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 2319.39kcal
- Fat: 219.84g
- Saturated Fat: 189.13g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.09g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.44g
- Carbohydrates: 109.23g
- Fiber: 13.77g
- Sugar: 76.14g
- Protein: 7.71g
- Sodium: 310.01mg
- Calcium: 86.99mg
- Potassium: 1192.03mg
- Iron: 3.19mg
- Vitamin A: 13.61µg
- Vitamin C: 31.75mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Your Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
When pitting the cherries, it's helpful to use a cherry pitter. However, if you don't have one, you can also use a straw or a chopstick. Simply push it through the top of the cherry where the stem was and the pit should pop out the other side. This will help keep the cherries intact and looking beautiful in your vegan cherry chocolate cake.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Use frozen fruit: Opt for frozen cherries instead of fresh ones to save time on pitting and preparing the fruit. Frozen fruit can be easily incorporated into the batter without the need for additional prep work.
One-bowl method: Utilize a single mixing bowl for combining the wet and dry ingredients to minimize cleanup and streamline the baking process.
Batch baking: Consider doubling the recipe and baking two cakes simultaneously to save time and have extra portions for later enjoyment.
Efficient mixing: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for quick and thorough mixing of the batter, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture without the need for extensive manual stirring.
Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake Recipe
whole wheat pastry flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for whole wheat pastry flour, providing a lighter texture to the cake.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with cacao powder: Cacao powder can be used as a substitute for unsweetened cocoa powder, offering a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, providing a similar leavening effect in the cake.
raw sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for raw sugar, offering a slightly caramel-like flavor to the cake.
coconut oil - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil, providing a rich and creamy texture to the cake.
coffee - Substitute with brewed chai tea: Brewed chai tea can be used as a substitute for coffee, adding warm and aromatic flavors to the cake.
cider vinegar - Substitute with white vinegar: White vinegar can be used as a substitute for cider vinegar, providing the necessary acidity for the cake batter.
dark cherries - Substitute with frozen cherries: Frozen cherries can be used as a substitute for fresh cherries, offering a convenient option when fresh cherries are not in season.
Presenting Your Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the slices of the vegan cherry chocolate cake on a pristine white plate, ensuring each slice is presented with precision and elegance.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar over the top of the cake slices, creating a delicate and refined touch that adds a hint of sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate a touch of color: Introduce a pop of color to the plate by adding a few fresh, whole cherries on the side, enhancing the visual appeal and providing a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate cake.
Utilize artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle a luscious cherry reduction or chocolate sauce in an artistic pattern around the cake slices, adding a touch of artistry and flavor complexity to the presentation.
Embrace minimalism: Emphasize the beauty of simplicity by adorning the plate with a single edible flower or a sprig of mint, creating a visually stunning yet understated presentation.
Highlight texture and contrast: Pair the cake slices with a quenelle of vegan whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream, adding a luxurious and creamy element that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the dish with meticulous attention to symmetry and balance, creating a visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing presentation that reflects precision and skill.
Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in baking and cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine ingredients and mix batters or doughs.
- Whisk: A whisk is used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
- Spatula: A spatula is used for scraping the sides of bowls, folding ingredients, and transferring mixtures.
- Cake pan: A cake pan is used to bake cakes and other baked goods.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line baking pans to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
- Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to measure liquid ingredients accurately.
- Oven: An oven is used for baking and cooking food.
- Toothpick: A toothpick is used to check the doneness of baked goods by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
- Food processor: A food processor can be used to pit cherries or process other ingredients for the recipe.
Storing and Freezing Your Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
- Allow the vegan cherry chocolate cake to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in. place the wrapped cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. label the container with the date and contents. the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To thaw the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. once thawed, remove the wrapping and let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
- If you prefer to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. this allows you to thaw and enjoy individual portions as needed.
- When storing or freezing the vegan cherry chocolate cake, make sure it is kept away from strong-smelling foods to prevent the cake from absorbing unwanted odors.
How To Reheat Leftover Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
The best way to reheat leftover vegan cherry chocolate cake is to warm it up gently in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat the cake for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through and the cherries are soft and juicy.
Another option is to reheat individual slices of the cake in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm and the chocolate is melted. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it can become dry and tough.
If you want to add a little extra moisture to your leftover cake, try drizzling it with a bit of coconut milk or almond milk before reheating. This will help keep the cake moist and delicious, even after a few days in the fridge.
For a quick and easy dessert, try crumbling leftover vegan cherry chocolate cake over a bowl of vegan ice cream or coconut yogurt. The combination of warm, gooey cake and cool, creamy ice cream is simply irresistible!
If you're feeling creative, try using leftover cake to make cake pops or truffles. Simply crumble the cake into small pieces, mix it with a bit of vegan frosting or nut butter, and roll it into balls. Dip the balls in melted vegan chocolate and let them set in the fridge for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Interesting Fact About Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake
The vegan cherry chocolate cake recipe is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is completely free of animal products. It's a great option for those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their consumption of animal products. Cherries are not only a tasty addition to the cake, but they also provide a natural sweetness and a pop of color. This cake is a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still adhering to a vegan lifestyle. Enjoy!
Is Making Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The vegan cherry chocolate cake recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as whole wheat pastry flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and raw sugar, are generally affordable and can be found in most households. However, the cost may slightly increase due to the use of dark cherries, which can be pricier depending on the season and location. Overall, the recipe offers a delightful and indulgent dessert option for vegans and non-vegans alike. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste and simplicity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20.
Is This Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This vegan cherry chocolate cake recipe has some healthy elements, but there's room for improvement. Let's break it down:
Positives:
- Whole wheat pastry flour provides more fiber and nutrients than refined flour
- Cherries are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C
- Coconut oil contains healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)
- Coffee adds depth of flavor without additional calories
Negatives:
- High in sugar (1 cup of raw sugar)
- Relatively high in fat due to the coconut oil
- Lacks protein, which could be added through ingredients like nuts or seeds
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following tweaks:
- Reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol, or simply cut back on the amount of raw sugar used
- Replace some of the coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to lower the fat content
- Incorporate protein-rich ingredients like chopped walnuts, almonds, or chia seeds to boost the nutritional value
- Use a higher percentage of dark chocolate (70% or above) for the cocoa powder, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar
- Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense ingredients like grated zucchini or beets for added moisture and vitamins
Remember, even with these modifications, this cake should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The occasional indulgence is fine, but be mindful of portion sizes and frequency of consumption.
Editor's Opinion on This Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake Recipe
The vegan cherry chocolate cake recipe you've provided is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and rich flavors. The use of whole wheat pastry flour and raw sugar adds a nutritious touch, while the addition of dark cherries brings a burst of natural sweetness. The incorporation of coconut oil and almond extract lends a lovely depth of flavor, and the use of coffee adds a subtle richness to the cake. Overall, this recipe promises a decadent and indulgent treat that is sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Why trust this Vegan Cherry Chocolate Cake Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful treat for anyone looking for a delicious and wholesome dessert. The use of whole wheat pastry flour and raw sugar ensures a healthier option, while the addition of dark cherries provides a burst of natural sweetness and antioxidants. The incorporation of coconut oil and almond extract adds a rich and nutty flavor, elevating the taste profile. The method of mixing the batter directly in the cake pan simplifies the preparation process, making it accessible for all home cooks. With its delightful combination of flavors and thoughtful preparation, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
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