Hungarian Cherry Chocolate Layer Cake, often described as Meggyes Krémes, is a beautiful Hungarian-inspired dessert that combines soft sponge cake, rich chocolate, tart sour cherries, and a light creamy filling. The contrast between chocolate and cherries makes this cake especially delicious, while the elegant layers make it perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.

With its tender cake layers, creamy cherry filling, cocoa topping, and juicy cherries, this dessert is a wonderful example of the rich and fruity flavors found in Hungarian baking.

What Is Meggyes Krémes?

The Hungarian word meggy refers to sour cherry, an ingredient that appears in many beloved Hungarian desserts. Krémes generally refers to a creamy pastry or dessert.

This version combines those two ideas into a layered cake featuring chocolate sponge, cherry filling, and a creamy layer. The slightly tart cherries balance the sweetness of the cream and chocolate, creating a dessert that doesn’t feel overwhelmingly sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• 🍒 Rich sour cherry flavor
• 🍫 Soft chocolate sponge
• 🩷 Light, creamy filling
• 🍰 Beautiful layered presentation
• 🇭🇺 Inspired by classic Hungarian flavors
• ☕ Perfect with coffee or tea
• 🎉 Great for birthdays and celebrations
• ❄️ Even better after chilling overnight

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Cherry Filling

• 2 cups pitted sour cherries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cherry juice or water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Layer

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz (225 g) mascarpone or cream cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped sour cherries, well drained

For the Chocolate Topping

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3–4 oz (85–115 g) dark chocolate, optional
• 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings, optional

For Decoration

• 12–16 fresh or preserved sour cherries
• Chocolate-covered cherries, optional