Name: Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Recipe: A Spooky Sweet Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-purpose flour (Substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.); 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Opt for Dutch-processed for a deeper color.); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Coconut sugar can be used as a less processed alternative.); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Check freshness for best rise.); 1 teaspoon Baking powder (Check freshness for best rise.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used for a vegan option.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Can substitute with yogurt or plant-based milk with vinegar.); 1 cup Strong black coffee (Can be replaced with hot water.); 1/2 cup Vegetable oil (Melted coconut oil is a great substitute.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Pure extract recommended.); 1/2 teaspoon Almond extract (Optional.); 1/2 cup Cherry preserves (Can switch with other fruit jams for variety.); 8 ounces Dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped (Use high-quality chocolate.); 1 cup Heavy cream (Coconut cream for dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Provides shine.); 1 tablespoon Corn syrup (Imparts smoothness.); 1/4 cup Dried cherries, chopped (Fresh is fine but dry cakes more thoroughly.); 1 teaspoon Edible silver dust (Ensure it’s food-grade.); 1 teaspoon Red gel food coloring (Ensure it’s safe for food use.); 1 tablespoon Black cocoa powder (For dusting.)

As I walked through a spooky autumn evening, the crisp air filled with laughter and the scents of caramel apples, I couldn’t shake the craving for a Halloween treat that was both striking and delicious. Enter the Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Recipe—a playful twist on traditional desserts that blends dark chocolate’s rich allure with the tangy sweetness of cherries. These decadent mini cakes not only impress your guests with their gothic charm but are also surprisingly easy to whip up for any Halloween celebration. Imagine serving these delightfully moist skulls topped with a glossy chocolate ganache at your next gathering; they’re sure to become the star of the night! Ready to indulge in a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to devour? Let’s get started!

What makes these skull cakes irresistible?

Unforgettable Presentation: These cakes are a showstopper, offering a spooky and sophisticated twist to your Halloween desserts. Moist and Rich: Infused with cherry preserves and topped with glossy chocolate ganache, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for adult parties, they ignite excitement and laughter among guests. Easily Customizable: Feel free to swap cherry preserves for other jams, or add different extracts for unique flavors. If chocolate desserts excite you, don’t miss our Nutty Chocolate Date or Coffee Chocolate Truffles for more delicious inspiration!

Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Contributes rich chocolate flavor; opt for Dutch-processed for a deeper color.
• Granulated sugar – Balances sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar is a less processed alternative.
• Baking soda & Baking powder – Essential leavening agents; check freshness for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Large eggs – Act as a binding agent; flaxseed meal mixed with water works for a vegan option.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and acidity; yogurt or plant-based milk with vinegar can be substitutions.
• Strong black coffee – Boosts chocolate flavor without a coffee taste; can be replaced with hot water.
• Vegetable oil – Provides moisture; melted coconut oil is a great substitute.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; pure extract is recommended for the best results.
• Almond extract – Optional for a complementary cherry flavor; skip for allergy concerns.
• Cherry preserves – Adds moisture and fruity flavor; can switch with other fruit jams for variety.

For the Ganache
• Dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped – Base for the ganache; use high-quality chocolate for the ultimate richness.
• Heavy cream – Adds richness and forms the ganache base; coconut cream can substitute for a dairy-free option.
• Unsalted butter & Corn syrup – Impart shine and smoothness to the ganache.

For Decoration
• Dried cherries, chopped – Provides decorative texture; fresh is fine but dry cakes more thoroughly.
• Edible silver dust – For a spooky decorative effect; ensure it’s food-grade.
• Red gel food coloring – Adds dramatic blood accents; make sure it’s safe for food use.
• Black cocoa powder – Perfect for dusting, enhancing the atmospheric feel of the skull cakes.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Molds
Begin by greasing your skull-shaped silicone molds generously with baking spray or softened butter. Then, dust the insides lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder, ensuring an even coat. This preparation will prevent the cakes from sticking and give them a polished finish once baked, making your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes easy to remove after cooling.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the dry ingredients, which will contribute to the rise and texture of your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes. Set the bowl aside for the next step.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the large eggs gently before adding in the buttermilk, cooled black coffee, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Mix until everything is well blended and smooth. This mixture will bring moisture and flavor to your cakes, ensuring they turn out rich and delightful.

Step 4: Make Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes. Finally, fold in the cherry preserves, distributing the fruity goodness throughout the batter without overworking it.

Step 5: Fill Molds & Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared molds, filling them about three-quarters full. Gently tap the molds on the counter to settle the batter and remove air bubbles. Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 22-25 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool & Unmold
After baking, let the cakes cool in the molds for about 15 minutes. Carefully invert them onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is essential to allow the Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes to firm up and develop their delightful texture before adding the ganache.

Step 7: Make Ganache
To prepare the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it simmers, then pour it over the finely chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. Finally, mix in the corn syrup and unsalted butter for added shine and richness, creating a glossy topping for your cakes.

Step 8: Coat the Cakes
Once the skull cakes have cooled, carefully pour the prepared ganache over each cake, ensuring complete coverage. You may use a spatula to help spread it evenly. Decorate each cake with chopped dried cherries and sprinkle edible silver dust on top for a spooky effect that enhances your Halloween presentation.

Step 9: Add Blood Accents
For dramatic flair, brush the tops of the ganache-coated cakes with red gel food coloring to create blood accents. This step adds to the gothic charm of your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes, making them a truly eye-catching dessert. Allow the coloring to set for a few moments.

Step 10: Chill & Serve
Finally, place the decorated cakes in the refrigerator to chill for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the ganache to set. Once set, arrange your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes on a dark platter dusted with black cocoa powder for a stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes

Fridge: Keep your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their moistness and rich flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled skull cakes individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving, or gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a warm treat.

Assembly Tips: If you’re preparing ahead, consider storing the ganache separately and coating your cakes just before serving to retain that beautiful glossy finish.

What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes

Let your imagination run wild as you create a full feast to complement these hauntingly delightful treats.

Warm Spiced Cider: The sweet warmth of spiced cider enhances the cake’s rich flavors, making it a cozy drink for chilly fall nights. This aromatic beverage will resonate beautifully with the autumnal vibes of your gathering.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a lovely contrast to the rich darkness of the cakes. The creaminess not only balances the flavors but also adds a delightful texture.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or espresso will elevate your experience, perfectly enhancing the deep chocolate notes while adding a cozy café feel to your spooky soirée.
Chocolate Bark: Serve with dark chocolate bark sprinkled with sea salt to intensify the chocolate experience. With added crunch, it’s an indulgent and delicious pairing that complements the richness of the cakes.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet, fruity bites will brighten your dessert table, offering a fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts the dense, fudgy cakes.
Pumpkin Pie: The spices of pumpkin pie resonate well with the fall theme and complement the tartness of the cherry preserves, creating a wonderfully festive dessert duo.
Candied Almonds: The crunch and sweetness from candied almonds provide a delightful textural contrast while echoing the flavor notes of the cherry and chocolate in your cakes.
Blackberry Compote: This thick, tart sauce drizzled over the cake can elevate the dessert experience with its zesty freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a burst of fruity goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the Halloween season! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Make sure to cover the bowl tightly to maintain moisture and prevent any odors from seeping in. Additionally, you can bake the cakes and let them cool completely, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply make the ganache and coat the cakes, allowing them to chill for about 30 minutes to set. This way, you’ll have your spooky dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort, ensuring they’re just as delicious!

Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious cake without gluten.
Vegan: Swap eggs for flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk and yogurt for a vegan treat.
Different Preserves: Try raspberry or apricot preserves instead of cherry for an entirely different flavor profile.
Flavor Twist: Add orange zest instead of almond extract for a refreshing citrus twist that complements the dark chocolate beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, into the batter for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that pairs nicely with chocolate.
Coconut Ganache: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the ganache to give a tropical flair to your skull cakes.
Decorative Themes: For a spooky theme, use different colored gel food colorings and sprinkles to create themed decorations, such as ghosts or spiders.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, I recommend checking out our Coconut Chocolate Rolls or perfecting your sweet tooth with our rich Coffee Chocolate Truffles. Enjoy modifying your skull cakes and delight your guests with delightful twists!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes

Choosing Chocolate Wisely: Use high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) for a richer ganache. Avoid lower-quality chocolate that might taste waxy or bland.
Cooling is Crucial: Let the cakes cool fully before adding ganache. If they’re warm, the ganache may melt and slide right off—no one wants a melted skull!
Perfect Ganache Temperature: Ensure your ganache is warm, not hot, so it flows smoothly over the cakes without losing that beautiful glossy finish.
Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re vegan or gluten-free, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use a gluten-free flour blend. These adaptations maintain the flavor and texture of your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes!
Creative Decoration: Get playful with your decorations! You can swap out the red gel for different colors or add themed sprinkles for an extra festive touch to your Halloween party.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining their moist tenderness and delicious flavors.

Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality cherry preserves made with real fruit. If you want a fresher option, look for dark or Bing cherries that are ripe and firm, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. The sweetness from the preserves will complement the rich dark chocolate perfectly!

How should I store my Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes?
Very good question! Store your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their moist texture and rich flavor. If you’re not planning to eat them right away, wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag will allow them to stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze these skull cakes?
Of course! To freeze your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to indulge!

What if my ganache doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your ganache is too thin and doesn’t set as desired, you can thicken it by adding more chopped chocolate or by gently reheating it and incorporating some additional cream. To do this, heat a little cream until warm, then stir it into the ganache until it reaches the desired consistency. Allow it to cool slightly before trying to coat the cakes again.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
The more the merrier! If you’re looking to accommodate various dietary needs, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water replaces one egg). Also, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. As for allergies, simply exclude almond extract if there are nut concerns and make sure your chocolate is allergen-free.

How can I ensure my cakes release easily from the molds?
Definitely! To ensure your Chocolate Cherry Skull Cakes come out easily, it’s essential to generously grease your silicone molds with baking spray or softened butter before dusting them with cocoa powder. This step will prevent them from sticking. After baking, let them cool for about 15 minutes in the molds before gently inverting them onto a wire rack. They should slide out smoothly!