Vanilla cake with pudding, cherries, and chocolate

Vanilla cake with pudding, cherries, and chocolate - a refined and delicious dessert, perfect for impressing on any occasion. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of vanilla with the sweetness of cherries and the richness of chocolate, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s embark together on the step-by-step preparation of this superb cake!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

The history of cherry and chocolate cake

Vanilla cake with pudding filling is a classic recipe that has evolved over the years. It is a delicious combination of textures and flavors, often found in various forms around the world. Its origins lie in pastry traditions that valued simple yet flavorful ingredients. Today, this cake is appreciated not only for its taste but also for its attractive appearance, often served at birthdays, weddings, or festive parties.

Ingredients

*For the batter:*
- 1 vanilla bean
- 4 fresh eggs
- 120 g sugar
- 120 g flour
- 20 g cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 40 g melted butter

*For the filling and decoration:*
- 1 L milk
- 1 packet chocolate pudding mix
- 1 packet whipped cream pudding mix
- 5-6 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 200 g cherries from a can (or fresh, if preferred)
- 100 g chocolate, melted (for decoration)

Necessary tools
- A cake pan (preferably 23 cm)
- Mixer or whisk
- Silicone spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Pots for making pudding
- Grater for the vanilla bean

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. This step is essential for achieving evenly baked batter.

2. Prepare the baking pan
Grease the cake pan with butter or oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking.

3. Process the ingredients
Slice the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds with a knife. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla seeds until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color.

4. Mix the dry ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring continuously with a spatula to avoid lumps.

5. Incorporate the butter
Pour the melted butter into the mixture and mix until everything is well combined. Here, you can smell the pleasant aroma of vanilla that will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

6. Bake the layers
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and place it in the oven for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Prepare the pudding
While the cake layer cools, prepare the pudding according to the package instructions. Use the milk and sugar to achieve a smooth and delicious cream. Make sure to let it cool slightly before using.

8. Assemble the cake
Once the cake layer has completely cooled, slice it horizontally into two equal parts. On the first layer, spread the chocolate pudding evenly, then sprinkle the cherries (if using canned cherries, make sure to drain them well). Then, cover everything with the whipped cream pudding. Place the second layer on top and press gently to secure it.

9. Decorate the cake
Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave and pour it over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a spectacular effect. You can also add some cherries or chocolate shavings to enhance the appearance.

10. Serve
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing. This will allow the pudding to set well and make cutting easier. Serve it alongside a scoop of whipped cream or ice cream for a perfect culinary experience.

Practical tips for a perfect result
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using, especially the eggs and butter, to achieve a uniform texture.
- You can replace the cherries with other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, to vary the cake's flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the pudding or use chocolate with a higher cocoa content.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but the texture of the cake may be denser. It is recommended to use a combination of whole wheat and white flour for a better result.
- How can I make the cake lower in calories?
Replace whole milk with skim milk or plant-based alternatives and use natural sweeteners instead of sugar.
- What drinks pair best with this cake?
Black coffee or a sweet wine can perfectly complement the cake's flavors, providing a pleasant contrast to its sweetness.

This vanilla cake with pudding, cherries, and chocolate is not only a quick dessert but also a true delight for the taste buds. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, the result will always be delicious. Enjoy cooking and don't forget to put your personal touch on the recipe!

 Ingredients: For the dough 1 vanilla bean 4 eggs 120g sugar 120g flour 20g cornstarch 1 teaspoon baking powder 40g melted butter For the filling and decoration 1L milk 1 packet chocolate pudding powder 1 packet whipped cream pudding powder 5-6 tablespoons sugar 200g canned cherries 100g melted chocolate