Chocolate Cherry Fruitcake

Is there anything quite as cozy and comforting as a slice of homemade fruitcake during the festive season? This delightful Chocolate Cherry Fruitcake recipe is a modern twist on the classic favorite, combining rich chocolate flavors with the sweetness of cherries to create a truly indulgent treat. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon or shared with loved ones as a holiday gift, this recipe is sure to become a new tradition in your home.

**Chocolate Cherry Fruitcake**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup chopped dark chocolate
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Set it aside to cool slightly.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the dried cherries and chopped walnuts. Toss them with a little flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake while baking.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in the melted chocolate until well combined.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
8. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
9. Fold in the cherry and walnut mixture, along with the vanilla extract, until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
10. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Allow the fruitcake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This Chocolate Cherry Fruitcake is best enjoyed when fully cooled, as the flavors have a chance to meld together for a rich and decadent taste experience. Serve slices of this delightful cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. The combination of dark chocolate and sweet cherries creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Get creative with your presentation by wrapping individual slices in parchment paper and tying them with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful gift idea. This fruitcake also freezes well, so you can make a batch in advance and have it ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a delicious dessert to savor at home, this Chocolate Cherry Fruitcake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Enjoy the warmth and sweetness of the season with this delightful recipe!