The word "cherry" comes from the French word "cerise", which comes in turn from the Latin words cerasum and Cerasus. Cherry fruit has always been very popular as a part of desserts and other culinary purposes. In the ancient days the cherry fruits were also known for their medicinal purposes. Besides the fruit, cherries also have attractive flowers, and they are commonly planted for their flower display in spring; several of the Asian cherries are particularly noted for their flower displays. The cherry fruit extract contains antioxidant flavanoids and are used in many tablets and capsules. These capsules are used to support the pH levels of the body. The cherry fruits are low in cholesterol, fat and sodium. They are also a very good source of fiber and Vitamin C. Here is a simple yet delightful 'Cocoa Cherry Cake' which I like to indulge at any time of the day.
1 cups Flour
1 cup Butter
1 cup Sugar
1/2 tbsp Baking powder
1/2 tbsp Bicarbonate soda
2 tbsp Cocoa powder
3 Eggs, beaten
1/2 cup Cherries, washed and cut into halves
2-3 drops Almond essence
3 tbsp Milk
1 tbsp Honey
Preheat oven at 3250 F.
In a large bowl, using a strainer (sieve), strain out cocoa powder, flour, baking powder and bicorbonate soda to avoid lumps.
To this mixture add milk (at room temperature), almond essence, sugar, beaten eggs and butter. Mix well.
Now add cherries and mix well using a spatula.
Line the base of the mould with greaseproof paper or baking parchment, then grease the paper and pour in the above mixture. Now add a tablespoon of honey on top of this mixture and bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cake in the tin for 15 minutes before turning it out on to a wire rack to cool.
Last but not least add your 'love' to the dish to make it 'YUMMY'
