Step 1

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and beat with electric mixer for 2 minutes.

Step 2

Pour into 2 greased and floured (or dusted with cocoa) 9 inch cake pans.

Step 3

Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4

Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5

When completely cooled, split the two layers into four with a sharp serrated bread knife.

Step 6

Melt together the 3 cups dark chocolate chips and in a double boiler

Step 7

Stir constantly over a gentle simmer in the double boiler, just until melted and smooth throughout.

Step 8

You do not want this mixture to get hot, it should be just at the melting point and only lukewarm to the touch.

Step 9

Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 10

In a separate bowl, whip the 2 cups whipping cream to firm peaks.

Step 11

Add the whipped cream to the chocolate mixture in four portions, folding gently after each addition, until the whipped cream is completely incorporated into the chocolate.

Step 12

At this point you will probably have to chill this frosting for a half hour or more in the fridge if it is too soft to work with.

Step 13

Just give it a quick fold with a rubber spatula every 10 minutes so that it cools evenly in the fridge.

Step 14

Whip together all 3 ingredients to firm peaks.

Step 15

Split the two layers of cake into four using a sharp serrated bread knife.

Step 16

Place the first layer of cake onto the cake plate and cover with a little of the vanilla whipped cream followed by the next layer of cake.

Step 17

Spread a thin layer of the whipped chocolate ganache on this layer.

Step 18

Place a layer of pitted cherries on top followed by more whipped ganache to completely cover the cherries.

Step 19

Add the next layer of cake, more of the vanilla whipped cream and the final layer of cake.

Step 20

Frost the entire outside of the cake with the remaining whipped ganache frosting.

Step 21

Place another layer of pitted cherries on top of the cake.

Step 22

Garnish with borders of vanilla whipped cream and with chopped chocolate on the sides.