Chocolate and Cherry Crumb Cake
Indulge in the decadent flavor combination of rich dark chocolate and sweet cherries with this irresistible crumb cake. Perfect for dessert lovers, this treat features a luscious chocolate base topped with juicy cherries and a crumbly, almond-sugar topping. Ideal for sharing with family and friends, it’s a comforting and delightful dessert that will impress every time!
Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate | 75g |
| Fresh Cherries (pitted) | 600g |
| All-Purpose Flour | 135g |
| Butter (melted) | 135g |
| Granulated Sugar | 125g |
| Brown Sugar | 50g |
| Almond Flour | 35g |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Heavy Cream | 115ml |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | 30g |
| Baking Powder | 10g |
| Sliced Almonds | 60g |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | 25g |
| Almond Flour | 75g |
| All-Purpose Flour | 50g |
| Brown Sugar | 75g |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Butter (for crumble) | 75g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cherries:
Begin by pitting the fresh cherries, removing the stones carefully. Set the cherries aside. -
-
Toast the Almonds:
Slice the almonds into thin strips, then toast them in a hot pan for a few moments until golden brown. This will bring out the rich almond flavor. Once toasted, set them aside to cool. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour and granulated sugar, stirring to ensure the mixture is evenly combined. -
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:
In a separate bowl, melt the dark chocolate using either a double boiler or microwave. Once the chocolate is melted and slightly cooled, add the warm heavy cream to the chocolate and stir to combine until smooth. -
Prepare the Cake Batter:
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Add the dry ingredients, including the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gradually incorporate the chocolate and cream mixture, mixing until you achieve a thick, smooth batter. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 20×30 cm deep baking dish with parchment paper. Slightly dampening the parchment paper before placing it in the dish will make it easier to spread. -
Assemble the Cake:
Pour the prepared batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Evenly distribute the pitted cherries over the batter, pressing them gently into the surface. Then, scatter the toasted almond strips on top of the cherries. -
Prepare the Crumble Topping:
For the crumble topping, mix the remaining almond flour, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and brown sugar in a bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If you prefer a chunkier crumble, you can rub the ingredients together by hand for a more textured result. -
Add the Crumble:
Sprinkle the prepared crumble mixture over the batter and cherries in the baking dish. The crumble will add a lovely, crunchy texture to contrast with the rich chocolate cake. -
Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should feel firm to the touch. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut into squares for serving. The cake will be soft and moist, with a perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Storage: Store the crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Customizations: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts to the crumble for a delightful crunch.
This Chocolate and Cherry Crumb Cake is a perfect way to end a meal, or to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. With the depth of dark chocolate, the sweetness of cherries, and the satisfying texture of the crumble topping, this dessert will quickly become a family favorite. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, it’s a comforting and indulgent treat that everyone will love!
