Decadent Gluten-Free Chocolate Cherry Cake
Indulge in this rich and fudgy Gluten-Free Chocolate Cherry Cake, a delightful treat that proves gluten-free baking can be both easy and incredibly satisfying. This recipe combines the deep, intense flavor of cocoa with the sweet and slightly tart taste of cherries, creating a perfect balance that will tantalize your taste buds. If you love chocolate, you might also enjoy our Decadent Gluten-Free Chocolate Mousse, another fantastic gluten-free chocolate dessert.
Baking gluten-free can sometimes be a challenge, but this recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a moist and flavorful cake every time. The use of xanthan gum helps to mimic the elasticity of gluten, providing the cake with a wonderful texture. For more tips on mastering gluten-free baking, check out our guide on 10 Easy Gluten-Free Recipes for Beginners, where we share essential tips and tricks for successful gluten-free creations.
Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or simply as an afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress. Pair it with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. If you’re looking for another festive gluten-free dessert, why not try our Soft Chewy Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men? They’re perfect for any occasion!
Why This Recipe Works
This Gluten-Free Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe is a winner because it:
- Is easy to make with simple, readily available ingredients.
- Delivers a moist, fudgy texture thanks to the perfect blend of gluten-free flours and xanthan gum.
- Combines the classic flavors of chocolate and cherry in a way that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
- Is adaptable – you can easily add other fruits or nuts to customize it to your liking.
Making Your Gluten-Free Cherry Chocolate Cake
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious gluten-free cherry chocolate cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 160C (140C fan) / Gas Mark 3.
- Prepare the Baking Tin: Line the base of a 20cm round, loose-bottomed tin with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and xanthan gum. The xanthan gum is essential for binding the ingredients in the absence of gluten, giving your cake a great texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, rice milk, and agave syrup until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon, gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Cherries and Brandy: Fold in the cherries (and brandy, if using) into the batter.
- Bake: Scrape the batter into the prepared tin, spreading evenly. Bake for 35-45 minutes. The cake should be crisp on top but still fudgy in the center.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the tin before removing it. This helps it to set and prevents crumbling.
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Ingredients
- 125g gluten-free flour blend
- 25g cocoa powder
- 150g light brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- ½ tsp xanthan gum
- 120ml sunflower oil
- 175ml rice milk
- 2 tbsp agave syrup
- 150g glacé cherries, halved
- 1 tbsp brandy or cherry liqueur (optional)
Nutritional Information & Gluten-Free Benefits
This decadent chocolate cherry cake is not only delicious but also caters to gluten-free dietary needs. By using a gluten-free flour blend, this recipe ensures that individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can enjoy a delightful treat without compromising their health.
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Provides the structure for the cake while being free of gluten. Look for blends that contain a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch for the best results.
- Cocoa Powder: Offers rich antioxidants and contributes to the deep chocolate flavor. Choose unsweetened cocoa powder for a healthier option.
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like sweetness. It can be substituted with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Baking Powder & Bicarbonate of Soda: These are leavening agents that help the cake rise. Ensure they are fresh for optimal results.
- Xanthan Gum: This is crucial in gluten-free baking as it acts as a binder, mimicking the role of gluten in traditional recipes, providing structure and preventing the cake from being crumbly.
- Sunflower Oil: A source of healthy fats that keeps the cake moist. Other oils like canola or melted coconut oil can also be used.
- Rice Milk: A dairy-free alternative that’s gentle on the stomach. Almond milk or soy milk can be used as substitutes.
- Agave Syrup: A natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than refined sugar. Maple syrup or honey can be used as alternatives, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
- Glacé Cherries: Adds a burst of sweetness and chewiness. Ensure they are gluten-free, as some brands may use wheat flour to prevent sticking.
- Brandy or Cherry Liqueur (optional): Enhances the flavor of the cherries and adds a touch of sophistication. For an alcohol-free version, use cherry extract.
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used. This cake provides a source of carbohydrates, fats, and some fiber. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Gluten-Free Cake
Creating the perfect gluten-free chocolate cherry cake is easier than you think! Here are some tips and variations to ensure success:
- For a Dairy-Free Version: Ensure you are using rice milk or another dairy-free milk alternative.
- For a Vegan Version: Replace the agave syrup with maple syrup and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
- Nut-Free Option: Verify that your gluten-free flour blend is nut-free and use sunflower oil or another nut-free oil.
- Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the wet ingredients to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in gluten-free chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Mix-Ins: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor (ensure they are gluten-free and consider any nut allergies).
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a dusting of cocoa powder, a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream, or a scoop of your favorite gluten-free ice cream.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations to create a cake that perfectly suits your taste and dietary needs! Happy gluten-free baking!
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A set of various sizes is invaluable for prepping ingredients and combining mixtures.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key to baking success!
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – Needed for baking the items in the oven.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – Great for beating eggs or creating light and airy mixtures.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Essential for scraping bowls and folding ingredients gently.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – Speeds up chopping and pureeing tasks.
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – A must-have for heating liquids and making sauces.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – A sharp knife makes all the difference in food preparation.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – Protect your countertops while you chop!
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon