For the Cake: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 1 cup sugar ½ cup vegetable oil 2 eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup hot water or coffee (for extra richness )
For the Filling & Topping: 2 cups heavy whipping cream ½ cup powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 jar cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries with syrup) Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
Instructions:
Bake the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, soda, and salt. Add sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Mix well. Stir in hot water or coffee — the batter will be thin. Divide into three 8-inch pans and bake for 30–35 min. Cool completely.
Prepare the Whipped Cream: Beat cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Assemble: Place one layer on a plate, spread whipped cream, and spoon cherries on top. Repeat layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Decorate: Add more cherries and sprinkle with chocolate curls. Chill before serving.