Name: Black Forest Boule-de-Neige
Yield: Makes 14 servings
Ingredients: Nonstick vegetable oil spray; 1/3 cup cherry preserves; 2 tablespoons kirsch (clear cherry brandy); 1 1/2 cups dried tart cherries (about 8 ounces); 1 pound bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 1 1/4 cups sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 6 large eggs; 1/3 cup all purpose flour; 2 cups chilled whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 4 teaspoons kirsch (clear cherry brandy); 1/4 teaspoon almond extract; 16 candied violet petals*

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Black Forest Boule-de-NeigeMark Thomas

Chocolate and cherry — the flavors of Germany's famous Black Forest torte — combine in this moist, fudgy cake. Baked in a metal bowl and covered with whipped cream, it resembles a snowball (boule-de-neige). Begin making this at least one day ahead.

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