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Chocolate, Cherry & Cognac New Years Cake

This Chocolate, Cherry & Cognac New Years Cake is rich, elegant, and indulgent perfect for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Deep chocolate layers meet boozy cherries and a velvety cognac glaze that tastes like celebration itself.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Batter
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 3 eggs room temperature
  • 3 oz dark chocolate melted
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup cherries chopped, fresh or jarred
  • 1 tbsp cognac
Glaze
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 oz dark chocolate chopped
  • 1 tbsp cognac optional

Equipment

  • 8-inch round cake pans
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in melted chocolate.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients with milk, mixing until smooth. Fold in cherries and cognac.
  5. Divide batter into pans. Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  6. Heat cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate, stir until smooth. Add cognac if desired.
  7. Assemble cake with glaze between layers and on top. Garnish with cherries and chocolate shavings.

Notes

  • Replace cognac with cherry juice or orange juice for a kid-friendly version.
  • Best made a day ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store covered in fridge up to 4 days.