Decadent Black Forest Cake

1. Bake the Cake:
   • Prepare the cake according to the box directions.
   • Once baked, cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove from the pan and place on a cooling rack. Allow to cool completely.
2. Make the Simple Syrup Glaze:
   • In a small pot, combine all ingredients for the simple syrup.
   • Bring to a boil and let boil for about 3 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and lump-free.
   • Add half of the whipping cream and beat on low speed for about 30 seconds.
   • Gradually add half of the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
   • Add the remaining whipping cream and beat until creamy.
   • Add the final portion of powdered sugar and beat well for about 2 minutes.
   • Mix in the almond extract and beat for an additional 30 seconds.
   • Turn the mixer to high and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Trim the top of the first cake layer with a serrated knife to create a level surface.
   • Place the first layer on a cake stand or plate. Use a pastry brush to evenly apply a layer of simple syrup over the top.
   • Trim the second layer of cake, place it on a cooling rack, and brush with simple syrup. Discard any leftover syrup.
   • Allow the syrup to soak into the cake layers for about 5-10 minutes.
5. Layer the Cake:
   • Spread about 1 cup of frosting over the top of the first cake layer, leaving about 1 inch from the edge.
   • Spoon cherry pie filling over the frosting, again leaving about 1 inch from the edge.
   • Carefully place the second layer of cake on top, avoiding too much pressure on the filling to prevent it from oozing out.
6. Crumb Coat the Cake:
   • Remove about 1 cup of frosting and place it in a smaller bowl to avoid mixing in chocolate crumbs from the cake.
   • Spread a thin, even layer of frosting over the sides of the cake, ensuring the space between the layers is filled with frosting to trap the filling.
   • Frost the top of the cake with a thin layer of frosting.
7. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the cake for about an hour to set the frosting.
8. Final Frosting:
   • After chilling, remove the cake from the refrigerator.
   • Spread the remaining frosting over the sides and top of the cake.
   • Use a small spatula to create an edge around the top of the cake by pushing down into the frosting to form a ledge.
   • Even out the center of the frosting by removing a thin layer until the edges are higher than the center.
9. Add the Topping:
   • Spoon cherry pie filling into the center of the top frosting layer.
10. Chill Again:

• Chill the assembled cake before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Layer Cake!