Christmas Kitchen Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Years Cake

Hi, I’m Asmaa. I’m 29 years old, and some of my happiest memories are from the kitchen, standing beside my mom as she showed me how to stir, season, and taste with care.

While scrolling through a cozy Reddit cooking thread, I discovered the Christmas Kitchen Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Year’s Cake, and it immediately caught my attention. The combination of dark chocolate, sweet cherries, and a touch of cognac sounded like something my mom would’ve made to mark a special occasion. Reading about it filled me with both nostalgia and curiosity — a longing to recreate that warmth and elegance she always brought to our table.
Try it and tell me — maybe it’ll remind you of someone special too.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Kitchen Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Years Cake

This Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Year’s Cake is deceptively simple — and that’s its magic. It looks like a showstopper straight from a bakery window but comes together with minimal fuss. The buttercream hides any imperfections, and the chocolate fingers around the sides give it that charming, party-ready look.

It’s also deeply nostalgic. The clock-face decoration is a grown-up nod to childhood birthday cakes, yet the flavors are sophisticated enough for a New Year’s Eve party or even as a birthday cake idea for winter celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Sponge:

• 50g cocoa powder – deep, chocolatey base for the cake
• 6 tbsp boiling water – helps the cocoa bloom for richer flavor
• 3 large eggs – binds everything and adds structure
• 120ml whole milk – keeps the sponge soft and moist
• 175g self-raising flour – for lightness and rise
• 1 tsp baking powder – ensures a fluffy texture
• 100g soft margarine – makes the sponge tender
• 275g golden caster sugar – adds sweetness and a hint of caramel warmth

For the Decoration:

• 300g icing sugar – creates smooth, sweet buttercream
• 150g unsalted butter, at room temperature – for creamy texture
• 3 tbsp cognac – a boozy, aromatic twist
• Black cherry jam – adds juicy flavor and color contrast
• 3 boxes Cadbury’s chocolate fingers – for a fun, elegant edge
• Milk chocolate writing icing – for easy, mess-free clock numbers
• Edible gold stars (optional) – for that sparkling festive touch

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two 8-inch cake tins with baking parchment.

Step 2: In a bowl, mix cocoa powder with boiling water until smooth. Add eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, margarine, and sugar. Beat just until smooth and combined — no overmixing needed.

Step 3: Divide the batter evenly between the tins. Gently tap each tin to release air bubbles, then bake for about 25–30 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back lightly to touch and a knife inserted comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the cakes in their tins until they’re just warm, then carefully remove and place on a wire rack. Let them cool completely before decorating — patience here ensures your buttercream stays perfect.

Step 5: For the buttercream, beat together butter, icing sugar, and cognac until smooth and creamy. The aroma alone will feel like a celebration.

Step 6: To assemble, place the flatter sponge on a stand. Spread a quarter of the buttercream evenly, then layer cherry jam on top — leave a small clean border to prevent overflow when topping.

Step 7: Set the second sponge on top and smooth another quarter of buttercream across the top to form your clock face. Bring some down the sides to help the chocolate fingers stick.

Step 8: Press chocolate fingers around the cake’s edge — don’t stress about perfection. The pattern looks charmingly rustic.

Step 9: Use your melted chocolate writing icing to draw a clock face, setting the time just before midnight. Finish with edible gold stars for a twinkling touch.

Cultural or Technique Note

This cake channels the spirit of classic British home baking — a festive adaptation of the beloved Victoria Sponge. It marries simple techniques with decadent flavors, a hallmark of British celebration desserts. Think of it as a cozy nod to childhood bakes, dressed up with grown-up flair for the New Year.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with champagne or sparkling cider: The light bubbles complement the richness of the Christmas Kitchen Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Year’s Cake beautifully.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream: Adds creamy contrast to the dense, chocolatey layers.
• Top with fresh cherries: A lovely way to highlight the cherry filling and add elegance.
• Display as your centerpiece dessert: Perfect for any New Year’s Eve party or holiday gathering.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a fluffy, even sponge.
• Bake the sponges a day ahead to make assembly stress-free.
• Smooth your buttercream with a palette knife for a professional finish.
• If buttercream feels thick, add a teaspoon of milk for softness.
• Chill chocolate fingers before applying to help them hold shape.
• Embrace imperfections — this cake’s charm lies in its homemade touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Makes the cake dry — start checking at 25 minutes.
Buttercream on warm cakes: Always cool completely before frosting.
Overmixing the batter: Mix only until combined for the best texture.
Skipping parchment paper: Increases the risk of breakage — line pans carefully.
Uneven frosting: Rotate your stand for smooth coverage.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store airtight for 3–4 days to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Store airtight for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bring to room temperature before serving — no need to warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make the Christmas Kitchen Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Year’s Cake without cognac?
A1: Yes, substitute brandy or even orange juice for a non-alcoholic option that still adds depth.

Q2: Can I use cherry pie filling instead of jam?
: Absolutely! Just drain any extra syrup to prevent slipping layers.

Q3: How far in advance can I make this cake?
Bake the sponges one day ahead and assemble before serving.

Q4: What if I can’t find chocolate fingers?
Kit Kats or wafer sticks make a great alternative and add a fun crunch.

Q5: Is this cake good for birthdays too?
Definitely! The festive clock-face and bold flavors make it a beautiful birthday cake idea for winter celebrations or New Year’s Eve parties.

Closing Paragraph

This Chocolate Cherry Cognac New Year’s Cake is proof that celebration baking doesn’t need to be complicated. With its rich layers and playful clock-face design, it brings joy, flavor, and sparkle to any table. Whether you’re welcoming the new year or toasting to a birthday, this cake is the perfect way to mark life’s sweetest moments.

Final Thoughts

I love how this cake captures both nostalgia and elegance — it feels like childhood parties meeting grown-up celebrations. Every slice is a little countdown to joy, laughter, and new beginnings. If you make it, I hope it brings as many smiles to your kitchen as it did to mine.