• Home
  • About Alice
  • Recipes
    • Popular Recipes
    • Quick Meals
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Gluten Free
    • Appetizers
      • Soups
      • Salads
    • Dinner
      • Asian Food
      • Beef
      • Korean Food
      • Pork
      • Poultry
      • Pasta
      • Pizza
      • Sushi
      • Vegetarian
    • Desserts
      • Brownies
      • Cakes
      • Cookies
      • Cupcakes
      • Ice Cream
    • Drinks / Cocktails
    • Browse All
  • Videos
    • Recipe Videos
    • YouTube Channel
  • Press
  • Work With Me
  • Family
  • Meal Planning
  • Contact

Red Wine Chocolate Cake

December 12, 2014 by hipfoodiemom 213 Comments

Facebook
Pinterest819
Twitter
Yummly11
830Shares

This homemade chocolate cake is decadent, fudgy, and infused with a bit of Merlot wine. And this beautiful cake makes the perfect holiday dessert! The cake recipe is easy to make, too.

Rich, fudgy, chocolatey goodness . . . with a hint of Merlot. You need to make this homemade chocolate cake. #homemadechocolatecake #redwine #holidays #cakerecipe #chocolatecake

Madeline and I heard the most disappointing news the other day as we were leaving her doctor’s appointment. Wisconsin is going to have a brown Christmas this year. A brown Christmas. No snow.

I just wrote about Christmas being better with snow in my last post. It’s funny. Every morning, I wake up and look outside hoping for snow. My daughters do the same thing . . and I blame it on living here in Wisconsin. In this state, the snow is captivating and dreamy in the months of December and January. And also, the Disney movie, Frozen. My kids now LOVE snow and think it’s the best thing in the world.

slice of decadent chocolate dessert

The other night I was reading to Madeline at her bedtime. We were reading a Disney Christmas Storybook and she wanted me to read “Frozen: All I Want For Christmas.”

The story is a continuation of the movie now that Queen Elsa’s powers are out in the open and everyone in Arendelle is happy and the gates are open. It’s basically about Elsa wanting to make Christmas really special for her sister, Anna.

So, she does all these things:

  • creates an ice sculpture
  • bakes gingerbread cookies with Olaf
  • decorates the Christmas tree
  • draws snowflakes on the window panes
  • hires musicians to play Christmas music everywhere

Many other things, too. All the while, Anna, asks Elsa what she is doing and really just wants to spend time with her sister. Anna doesn’t care about all of the other things.

At the end of the story, Elsa and Anna end up having a snowball fight and playing outside with each other for hours. They go inside and Elsa says, “I got carried away with making Christmas perfect, and I forgot all about the most important part- spending time with you.”

Who says Disney books don’t have any depth?! This story totally reminded me of this story. And my eyes got all teary eyed.

I think the story is so sweet and touching. And it makes me look forward to Christmas day with our family. Last year, we had just moved here to Wisconsin and we didn’t want to travel again. So, we spent Christmas with just my family; just my husband and my kids. And we met my sister’s family at an indoor water park a few days after Christmas.

sugared cranberries

This year, we will all be together with my parents and my sister’s family. Because we all live in different states, I treasure it so much when we can get together. Now, I am known for taking too much on and always trying to do too much. .  especially during the holidays . . so this year, I’m taking that story to heart and will simply unplug and spend time with my family on Christmas.

Christmas will be about celebrations, family, food and more food.

And, you can’t celebrate Christmas without the ultimate holiday desserts.

Homemade Chocolate Cake

homemade chocolate cake beautifully decorated with red wine chocolate frosting

3-layer frosted chocolate cake on white platter

I know what I’m going to bake for my family.

This cake recipe has to happen again. I’ve said it before; I believe in dessert. For me, amazing meals become more memorable when you end them with an unforgettable and delicious dessert. This is it, my friends. This homemade chocolate cake is rich, moist, fudgy and chocolatey, with a hint of merlot red wine.

bottle of Entwine Merlot Wine

I am seriously trying to contain my excitement because I have just created my favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe here. I made the cake recipe three times. A 3-layer cake, three times. I won’t do the math but let’s just say there’s been a lot of red wine chocolate cake in my house and in my happy stomach.

I landed on a final recipe that is absolutely delicious and not overly powered by the red wine.

Also, I put some in the frosting…  because it had to be done.

Red Wine Chocolate Frosting

making red wine chocolate frosting in stand mixer bowl

I love the red wine in chocolate frosting so much. I might use it on all of my chocolate cakes from now on.

slice of frosted 3-layer homemade chocolate cake

Are you looking for a delicious and beautiful chocolate cake for the holidays? This homemade chocolate cake is it. I picked up some pine cones from Target and made some sugared cranberries for a festive look, but you can absolutely just frost the cake and go to town. Every holiday table needs this gorgeous chocolate layer cake. I hope try the recipe!

Rich, fudgy, chocolate cake topped with sugared cranberries and pine cones

How to make homemade chocolate cake

 

Print Recipe
4.75 from 4 votes

Homemade Chocolate Cake with Merlot Chocolate Frosting

This homemade chocolate cake is decadent, fudgy, and infused with Merlot red wine. A beautiful cake like this one makes the perfect holiday dessert!
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Total Time45 mins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: holidays, homemade chocolate cake, merlot red wine, red wine chocolate cake
Servings: 12
Author: Hip Foodie Mom

Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 8 oz unsalted butter at room temp
  • 1 ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup applesauce
  • 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup red wine preferably merlot

For the frosting:

  • 8 oz unsalted butter at room temp
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 5 to 6 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 cup red wine preferably merlot

Instructions

For the cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prep three 6” round cake pans with parchment paper on the bottom and spray with non-stick baking spray. Using your stand mixer fitted with the flat beater attachment, cream the butter on low speed. Add in the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, for about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, and then add in the vanilla and applesauce and continue beating for another 1 to 2 minutes.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Unplug your stand mixer and remove the bowl from the mixer. By hand, using a rubber spatula, fold in a third of the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and then pour in a third of the entwine Merlot. Fold ingredients together until just combined. Continue this process two more times, alternating folding in the flour mixture and the wine into the cake batter.
  • Pour the cake batter evenly into the 3 prepared pans and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a tester inserted comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool for at least 20 minutes before removing from the cake pans.
  • Makes one 6” round, 3-layer cake.

For the frosting:

  • While your cakes are cooling, you can prepare the frosting.
  • Using your stand mixer fitted with the flat beater attachment, cream together the butter, cocoa and vanilla at medium speed for a few minutes. Add in the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time and pour in a little entwine Merlot, and mix together until smooth. Repeat until you have a consistency you are happy with. Feel free to add a touch more wine if you need to.
  • Once the cakes have cooled completely, level each cake and frost, stacking the cakes and putting a thin layer of frosting in between each layer. There should be enough frosting for a crumb coat and an outer layer of frosting. Slice, serve and enjoy.

For the sugared cranberries, click here or here.

beautiful chocolate cake on white cake stand

To learn more about entwine wines, watch the video below. You can also visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with entwine wines. All opinions expressed here are 100% my own. 

 

 

You might also like...

  • Crabapple Yogurt Bundt CakeCrabapple Yogurt Bundt Cake
  • Sheet Pan Meatballs! So delicious and so easy to make! This recipe uses a combination of lean ground beef and Italian sausage. Sheet Pan Meatballs
  • Olive Oil Thyme Mini Bundt CakesOlive Oil Thyme Mini Bundt Cakes
Facebook
Pinterest819
Twitter
Yummly11
830Shares

Related Recipes

Filed Under: Baking, Cakes, Desserts, Popular Tagged With: chocolate, holidays

« Christmas Cupcakes + A Giveaway!
Kimchi Fried Rice »

Comments

  1. Julianne+@+Beyond+Frosting says

    December 12, 2014 at 12:53 am

    This cake is beyond gorgeous! I hope things change for you weather wise!! I have had plenty of snow-less Christmas mornings!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 13, 2014 at 10:00 am

      Thanks so much, Julianne!! Me too!! 🙂

      Reply
  2. Amy @ Chew Out Loud says

    December 12, 2014 at 1:04 am

    Alice, I totally hear you! I’m your “neighbor” in Minnesota and we are hearing of brown Cmas, too. Funny I never gave it a thought in the West Coast, but now that we have lived here many years, I agree white is the prettiest on Dec. 25th. Now, if it were April…that’s a different story. Love your merlot cake…beautiful holiday dessert.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:47 am

      haha, Amy you are right. Snow is still pretty and beautiful in December/January but not so much in April! 😛

      Reply
  3. Lisa @ Garnish with Lemon says

    December 12, 2014 at 6:11 am

    After how freezing last winter was, I’m ok with a brown Christmas this year 🙂 Love the addition of the Merlot to this chocolate cake, simply gorgeous!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:41 am

      Thank you so much, Lisa! yeah, I’m sure there will be plenty more snow in January!!! 🙂

      Reply
  4. Joanne says

    December 12, 2014 at 6:35 am

    SO this is one of the most GORGEOUS cakes I’ve ever seen. Ever ever. You did an AMAZING job with it!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 7:52 am

      oh my gawd, Joanne . . coming from you, it’s a true compliment. . thank you so much! You are so sweet!!!

      Reply
  5. Zainab says

    December 12, 2014 at 6:52 am

    Alice that story is cute!! And you are right, sometimes Disney stories carry lots of lessons. I hope you guys get at least a dusting of snow by Christmas so the girls can have a white Christmas. Unless if you are heading to MN where I am sure there will be lots of snow. I cannot even begin to tell you how gorgeous this cake is!! So so beautiful and will make a stunning centerpiece on any holiday table.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:47 am

      Thanks so much, Z!!!! That means so much coming from YOU! 🙂

      Reply
  6. Alice says

    December 12, 2014 at 7:09 am

    Now I’m sure I’ve said this before, but red wine & chocolate is the ultimate winning combination. Add in the cake and it’ll reach superstar status!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:40 am

      haha thank you, Alice!! I like super star status! 😛

      Reply
  7. Jaden says

    December 12, 2014 at 7:48 am

    wow! stunning!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 7:51 am

      Thank you so much, Jaden!!

      Reply
  8. Ashley+|+Spoonful+of+Flavor says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:08 am

    Absolutely gorgeous cake, Alice! I love the addition of the Merlot. I hope that the weather cooperates and you get the white Christmas that you and you daughter want!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:40 am

      Thanks so much, Ashley!!! Me too!! 😛

      Reply
  9. Maria|Pink+Patisserie says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:20 am

    I just love that Frozen story! How wonderful and what a very important message for our girls and everyone to hear!! I’m sorry you won’t have as much snow, I’d be pretty bummed too. This cake would go along way towards making me feel better about that though! It is just gorgeous! So festive and merlot?? Bring it on! Just a stunner!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:39 am

      Thank you so much, Maria!!! Wishing you and your beautiful family a lovely Christmas!!

      Reply
  10. Nutmeg+Nanny says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:28 am

    You stop it right now! This cake is so freaking beautiful. If I were getting married in the winter this would be my dream wedding cake. I mean, I’m already married but I can still keep planning…right?

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 8:41 am

      oh my gawd, are you kidding me Brandy with this comment today?! Dude, you just made my day. Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  11. Cheryl says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:33 am

    This! This is so insanely gorgeous and how perfect would it be for a winter girls night?! Or any event, really.. wine + chocolate makes life worth living, dammit!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:38 am

      oh my gawd, Cheryl! I love this commment!! “wine + chocolate makes life worth living, dammit!” LOVE! 😛

      Reply
  12. Jocelyn+(Grandbaby+Cakes) says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:43 am

    I was just like the kids. I always wanted a white Christmas. It didn’t feel like Christmas without it. And this cake is absolutely stunning my girl. I mean wow!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:37 am

      Thanks so much, J!!! 🙂 love you boo!!

      Reply
  13. Liz+@+Floating+Kitchen says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:57 am

    Beautifully written post, Alice! I’ll send snowy thoughts to you! This towering cake – get out of town! Chocolate + wine + sparkly cranberries. Come on. I need that in my life!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:37 am

      haha, thanks so much Liz!! yeah, I know. . it’s so tall!!! 😛

      Reply
  14. Ms.Yum says

    December 12, 2014 at 9:10 am

    This cake looks so beautiful! It would make the perfect center piece for my Christmas table

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:37 am

      Thank you so much, Ms. Yum!! happy holidays!! if you try this cake, please let me know what you think! 🙂

      Reply
  15. Kelli @ The Corner Kitchen says

    December 12, 2014 at 9:12 am

    You’ll never find me turning down chocolate cake, and especially one that has red wine and is so freaking stunning!!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:36 am

      Thank you so much, Kelli!!! happy holidays to you and your boyfriend!!!

      Reply
  16. Gayle @ Pumpkin 'N Spice says

    December 12, 2014 at 9:46 am

    What a gorgeous cake, Alice! This belongs in a bakery! Love the chocolate and merlot flavor, such a great idea!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:35 am

      oh my goodness, Gayle!! Thank you so much! This comment just made my day! 🙂

      Reply
  17. Nicole @ Or Whatever You Do says

    December 12, 2014 at 10:09 am

    This cake totally screams WINTER to me! Such a beautiful presentation. I’ve never tasted a chocolate cake with merlot in it, but its now going on my list! YUM!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:35 am

      Thanks so much Nicole!!! if you try it, please let me know what you think! 🙂

      Reply
  18. Manali @ CookWithManali says

    December 12, 2014 at 10:41 am

    Stunning Cake!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:33 am

      Thank you so much, Manali!

      Reply
  19. David+@+Spiced says

    December 12, 2014 at 10:48 am

    That cake is beyond gorgeous, Alice! And it includes wine? We’ll be heading down to the in-laws soon enough, and a cake with wine in it sounds like the perfect way to celebrate! And since we are at the in-laws, I may have to have a glass of wine alongside my cake, too. 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:33 am

      haha, David. . that’s the only way to do it, yo. a glass of wine WITH this chocolate merlot cake! 🙂 Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  20. Runninsrilankan says

    December 12, 2014 at 10:59 am

    I would much rather have a brown Christmas than a white Chsitmas – specially if that “brown” is in the form of this cake! Alice – wow – this cake is so incredibly gorgeous!! Love the layers, the frosting, totally addicting!
    I was so taken by Frozen too – loved how it ended – so different from the older Disney movies were romantic love trumps all – not that am against romantic love or anything!
    Have a wonderful Christmas with your family – safe travels, dear!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:33 am

      haha, thank you so much!!! The merriest and happiest Christmas to you too!!!

      Reply
  21. Aimee @ ShugarySweets says

    December 12, 2014 at 11:10 am

    I have to admit, I love snow on Christmas morning. But by January 1st I’m done with it 🙂
    This cake is gorgeous!! The sugared cranberries are beautiful.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:32 am

      Thanks so much, Aimee!! haha, yeah you are right. . last winter was our first winter in WI and after the first few snowfalls, I loved it. . just didn’t know I’d be seeing snow until April! 😛

      Reply
  22. Lucy Lean says

    December 12, 2014 at 11:31 am

    This cake is EPIC! I’m definitely going to make it over the holidays – and not just because it contains wine! How did you make the sugared cranberries – so pretty. This is my first visit to your site and I’m definitely coming back for more!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 2:28 pm

      Thank you so much Lucy!! The sugared cranberries are quite easy. . there are several recipes on the internet but Naomi has a great one: http://www.bakersroyale.com/basic-baking-series/sugared-cranberries/

      Reply
  23. Karen | joyfuldinners says

    December 12, 2014 at 11:39 am

    Amazing post, from dreaming about snow and the Frozen story leading to Luke, to this beautiful cake. Thank you. I love the pine cones on top. I grew up in the Northwest where snow comes maybe once a year so when I lived in Ohio for 10 years I savored every snowy moment. I miss them. Here’s to hoping they got it wrong and you wake up to the magic of snow on Christmas morning.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:31 am

      Karen, you are so sweet! Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment!!! Wishing you and your family a lovely holiday season!!! 🙂

      Reply
  24. Alyssa+(Everyday+Maven) says

    December 12, 2014 at 1:09 pm

    Oh my gosh Alice – that cake is stunning! I need some frosting lessons from you. I am working on my son’s bday cake and my frosting is a hot mess compared to yours. Tell me your tricks!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:30 am

      oh my goodness!! Everything I learned re: frosting was from I Am Baker’s book, Surprise Inside Cakes. I think the key is the crumb coat, freezing the cake for a bit and then applying the second layer of frosting and the off set spatula is KEY!!! Thank you, Alyssa!!

      Reply
  25. Mira says

    December 12, 2014 at 2:49 pm

    This cake looks beautiful! I’ve never tried Merlot cake with merlot frosting! Planning to make it! I hope we get snow for Christmas in Chicago, where it is cold anyways!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:28 am

      Thanks so much, Mira!!! If you try it, please let me know what you think! 🙂

      Reply
  26. Lisa @ Healthy Nibbles & Bits says

    December 12, 2014 at 3:22 pm

    Alice, this cake is just freakin’ gorgeous! I’ve never thought of adding wine to cake and frosting!! This is such a winner.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:27 am

      Thanks so much, Lisa!! if you like wine, you have to try this!!

      Reply
  27. Sarah @ SnixyKitchen says

    December 12, 2014 at 3:38 pm

    WOW – This cake is absolutely stunning. And your PHOTOS – Oh my gosh, you captured the light beautifully and the sugared cranberries bounce off the page. I’m sorry to hear you’ll be having a snow-less Christmas, but at least you’ll have this merlot cake;)

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:27 am

      Thanks so much Sarah!!! you are too kind!!! 🙂 and yes, at least I will have this cake! 🙂

      Reply
  28. Diana Johnson says

    December 12, 2014 at 4:01 pm

    Wine+chocolate+cake!!! It doesn’t get any better than that. Gorgeous!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:26 am

      haha, agreed!! Thank you Diana!!

      Reply
  29. marcie says

    December 12, 2014 at 5:25 pm

    We had a brown Christmas here in CA last year, meaning no rain. It was literally brown and depressing! We have plenty of green now because of rain, and while it isn’t white, I’ll take it. 🙂 I will also take one of these cakes! You decorated this cake so beautifully (love the pine cones!) and since I’m a red wine drinker, I’m definitely down with that flavor here. Your Christmas plans sound wonderful, especially ending with this cake!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:26 am

      Awh, thanks so much Marcie!! Wishing you and your family a very happy holiday!!

      Reply
  30. Brandie @ Spoon And Saucer says

    December 12, 2014 at 5:28 pm

    Oh my word. This cake is divinely beautiful. My birthday is the 20th, and I just make this. For myself. 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:25 am

      Thank you so much, Brandie!! Happy early birthday and I hope you DO try the cake!!

      Reply
  31. Karista says

    December 12, 2014 at 5:48 pm

    This is just stunning! What a gorgeous cake. I could reach right into the photo and sneak a bite! I think Merlot must be the wine of the season. 😉

    Love the post Alice. We don’t have family near so it’s usually just the four of us. We’ve all come to truly look forward to the day, hanging around in the kitchen, cooking, eating, going for our annual Christmas morning hike and simply time together. I treasure these moments, especially now that my girls are older.

    Wishing you the most beautiful and delicious holiday season!! Merry Christmas!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 9:16 pm

      Thank you so much, Karista! your Christmas sounds fabulous, hanging around in the kitchen, cooking and eating with the family. That’s what it is all about! Wishing you and your family a lovely holiday season too!!! 🙂

      Reply
  32. Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl says

    December 12, 2014 at 7:13 pm

    You are a cake master! Look at how perfect this is. I’m going to a holiday party next week and wouldn’t this be the perfect thing to bring?!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 9:14 pm

      Pamela, I hope you make this cake!!! You will love it!

      Reply
  33. Andrea @ Cooking with Mamma C says

    December 12, 2014 at 7:36 pm

    Your cake is gorgeous! My husband makes wine, so I’ve tried baking with it before, and it’s divine.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:24 am

      Thank you so much,Andrea!! Oh wow, how wonderful!! you must have an abundance of wine at the house!! love that!

      Reply
  34. Renee+@+Two+in+the+Kitchen says

    December 12, 2014 at 8:49 pm

    This cake is sincerely GORGEOUS Alice!! I love that it is flavored with Merlot!! I can’t agree that I want snow right now……even for Christmas ……….but I sure do want to be staring at this beautiful cake in front of me!! 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 10:44 pm

      Thank you so much, Renee!!

      Reply
  35. Ashley | The Recipe Rebel says

    December 12, 2014 at 10:00 pm

    THIS cake. An absolute wow! I totally agree that Christmas is better with snow! I feel like I was waiting for snow since October, and we finally just got a really good covering at the end of November. It’s been strangely warm lately though and it’s looking not quite as fluffy as it should be…. I hope you guys get some after all!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 12, 2014 at 10:44 pm

      Thanks so much, Ashley . . sadly, I don’t think we’re due any until January. . but it’s ok. . I’m sure when it snows, it’ll be here until April! 😛 happy holidays!

      Reply
  36. Melanie+|+Melanie+Makes says

    December 12, 2014 at 11:27 pm

    Our second year in Madison – the one where I birthed our oldest – we had a record 102″ of snow. Insanity! Not sure if that’s better or worse than a brown Christmas!

    This cake looks insanely delicious, Alice – but I’d expect nothing less from you!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:23 am

      Oh wow!!! Yeah, I guess the upside is no shoveling. . which means more people get to just stay in and spend time with the family. . which is better!! thank you so much, Melanie!!! you are so sweet!

      Reply
  37. Tori@Gringalicious.com says

    December 13, 2014 at 3:18 am

    I love Frozen almost as much as I love this cake, Alice! I’m so sorry for you that you won’t be having a white Christmas. I’m in the same boat, actually it never snows here. I hope you still have a wonderful Christmas!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:22 am

      thanks so much, Tori!!! My girls do too!! 🙂 and I know every word to every Frozen song! 😛

      Reply
  38. Kristi @ Inspiration Kitchen says

    December 13, 2014 at 8:08 am

    Alice, what a great looking cake! I love the candied cranberries on top (they’re so festive!). And, I’ll be that red wine adds a richness that is divine!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:22 am

      Thanks so much Kristi!!! The sugared cranberries were a last minute addition .. so happy everyone likes them! 🙂

      Reply
  39. Kelly says

    December 13, 2014 at 8:37 am

    What a great story and I love the meaning behind it! Hopefully the weather surprises you and you get the white Christmas for you and the girls 🙂 And this cake is beyond gorgeous, Alice! I love the addition of merlot and those sugared cranberries on top are so pretty and festive!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:21 am

      Thank you so much, Kelly!! so glad we have connected through our blogs!!! 🙂 Wishing you and your family a very happy Christmas!!

      Reply
  40. Annie+@+ciaochowbambina says

    December 13, 2014 at 11:44 am

    Such a beautiful cake to top off a beautiful story. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:20 am

      Awh, thanks so much Annie!! Happy holidays to you and your family!!

      Reply
  41. Nancy @ gottagetbaked says

    December 13, 2014 at 12:31 pm

    You’re killin’ me, smalls. This cake is all kinds of amazing. That moist, fluffy texture! That gorgeous creamy frosting! Those beautiful, festive sugared cranberries. And lady, merlot! Adding wine to cake is brilliant (I hope you were taking a few swigs while baking). We always have a brown Christmas in Vancouver (a brown, grey-skied, rain-drenched Christmas) but I love it just the same because it’s all about spending time with family. And eating, of course 😉 Love ya, Alice, and I loved this post!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 13, 2014 at 4:06 pm

      love you too, Nance!! so much!!! 🙂

      Reply
  42. Eva @ Eva Bakes says

    December 13, 2014 at 12:49 pm

    What a gorgeous cake! I will gladly eat the frosting alone with a spoon, thankyouverymuch. 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:19 am

      haha, thanks Eva!! I may have done that too! 😛

      Reply
  43. Jen @ Baked by an Introvert says

    December 13, 2014 at 1:56 pm

    The is one stunning cake! Adding wine is pure genius. Fingers crossed for a white Christmas surprise! Miracles do happen!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:01 am

      Hooray for miracles!! and a white christmas! 🙂 thank you, Jen!!

      Reply
  44. Jessica+@+Jessica+in+the+Kitchen says

    December 13, 2014 at 3:33 pm

    This is such a gorgeous cake Alice and I love that Frozen story! Love the addition of the wine – it must taste amazing. Pinned this beauty.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:01 am

      Thanks so much Jessica!! the wine enhances the chocolate so well. . this is seriously one of all-time favorite chocolate cakes now!

      Reply
  45. Amanda says

    December 13, 2014 at 3:38 pm

    This cake is gorgeous! The sugared cranberries are so pretty!!!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 13, 2014 at 4:07 pm

      Thank you Amanda!!! Any frosting skills that I have are from watching your videos and from your book, “Surprise Inside Cakes”. . for reals yo.

      Reply
  46. Nora @ Savory Nothings says

    December 13, 2014 at 4:04 pm

    We’re probably going to have a brown Christmas too 🙁 So sad 🙁 But your cake Alice, this CAKE! It’s haunting me in my sleep, that’s how badly I want a slice! Yum!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:00 am

      oh my gosh, Nora! you are too sweet!! thank you so much! happy holidays!!

      Reply
  47. CakeSpy says

    December 13, 2014 at 4:27 pm

    Pinkies ooooooouuuuuuuttttt for this cake! If wine is proof that god loves us and wants us to be happy (per a famous quote)…then this cake is for very happy eating indeed.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:59 am

      very happy eating indeed!!! love that!! 🙂

      Reply
  48. Karen+@+The+Food+Charlatan says

    December 13, 2014 at 5:01 pm

    It’s funny what a kids story can do to your tear ducts, right? When did we get so sappy?? But I’m totally with you Alice. Kids are only kids once, and I don’t want to miss it. Unplugging always feels so good.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:58 am

      Yup, Karen .. I know. . dude, ever since I became a mother, I cry during commercials. . it’s kinda crazy. . anyway happy holidays and here’s to lots of family time!! 🙂

      Reply
  49. Shinee says

    December 13, 2014 at 5:49 pm

    Wow, what a beautiful showstopper, Alice! I love this wine in the chocolate cake idea. My family will go bonanza on this! As for brown Christmas, 🙁 (<-Sad face)! I once spent the Christmas in LA, and it was kind of weird and not festive enough for me. We should always have white Christmas! 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:57 am

      yes, to a white Christmas!! 🙂 and thank you so much Shinee!!

      Reply
  50. Rachel @ Bakerita says

    December 13, 2014 at 6:09 pm

    What a gorgeous cake! It sounds absolutely delicious, and the way you garnished it with those sugared cranberries looks stunning. Pinned!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 10:00 am

      Thank you so much, Rachel!!

      Reply
  51. Maureen | Orgasmic+Chef says

    December 13, 2014 at 8:35 pm

    We’re having my husband’s family here for Christmas and I know I’ll overdo things. It is what it is, I suppose. I know that I’m going to have this cake. My goodness it looks good!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:59 am

      yes, and hey, I guess that’s what the holidays are for, right? Going all out and over doing things just a bit. . if you try this cake, please let me know! 🙂

      Reply
  52. Thalia @ butter and brioche says

    December 13, 2014 at 9:10 pm

    You can definitely cut me a thick slice of this cake right now, it looks incredibly dense, moist and of course delicious. Love baking with red wine too.. so I can imagine how good this merlot cake tasted!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:58 am

      Thank you so much, Thalia!! yes, it was so good. . and moist!! the first time I baked it, I added a full cup of merlot and it was fabulous but a little too gooey for my husband, so anyway, very happy with the end result (cake #3).

      Reply
  53. Laura+(Tutti+Dolci) says

    December 13, 2014 at 9:32 pm

    This cake is absolutely gorgeous!! What could be better than chocolate and wine?!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:57 am

      Thank you so much, Laura!! I agree. . chocolate + wine = fabulous.

      Reply
  54. Maria | Real Life Dinner says

    December 13, 2014 at 9:38 pm

    I want to eat that whole cake, RIGHT NOW!!! Beautiful! Your pictures are amazing!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:57 am

      Thank you so much, Maria!!! I could have eaten the entire thing myself. . and that’s why I needed to share!! my neighbor got some and my sister! 🙂

      Reply
  55. laurasmess says

    December 14, 2014 at 3:06 am

    This looks AMAZING. I never would have thought to combine wine with chocolate in baking, but I can understand why it must work so beautifully!! Yum. Love the frosted berries on the top of the cake, too (I have never seen a fresh cranberry – we don’t have them here and I am so envious of all of the glossy cranberry posts happening at the moment!). Oh, and as for the brown Christmas? Sounds like our experience every year, haha. But I will send up a snow prayer for your little ones this year, I hope that you all have a beautiful, memorable Christmas week xxx

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:56 am

      Laura, a snow prayer? You are the sweetest!! 🙂 Wish I could send you some fresh cranberries!!! You don’t have them there in Australia at all?

      Reply
  56. Lindsey+@+American+Heritage+Cooking says

    December 14, 2014 at 8:29 am

    Brown Christmas sounds just tragic! Let’s call it “Snowless Christmas”! This cake totally makes up for the lack of snow. It is absolutely stunning! Love each and every photo! Pinned!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 14, 2014 at 9:54 am

      haha, those were the exact words used. . “brown Christmas” .. thank you so much, Lindsey!!

      Reply
  57. Mir says

    December 14, 2014 at 1:52 pm

    Um, wow. This cake belongs in Frozen. It’s a perfect winter cake, brown Christmas or not! My kids are obsessed withi that movie, too. And I’m obsessed with trying merlot in my chocolate cake now! It’s so exciting that this works!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:56 am

      Hi Mir!! oh, it works and seriously, this might be my favorite chocolate cake ever!! Hope you try it!!

      Reply
  58. Julie @ Julie's Eats & Treats says

    December 14, 2014 at 5:11 pm

    This cake is gorgeous! We are going to have a brown Christmas in Minnesota unless we get some fresh snow to, It rained last night and washed the snow away. At least you get to be with your family!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:53 am

      Thank you so much, Julie!! Yup, you’re right . . I’m so happy I’ll be with my family!!! My sister lives in MN! 🙂 Happy holidays to you and your family!!

      Reply
  59. Christin@SpicySouthernKitchen says

    December 14, 2014 at 5:55 pm

    What a gorgeous cake! I love how you decorated it with cranberries and pine cones. I’ve never added merlot to a cake before. I bet it tastes amazing.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:52 am

      Thanks so much Christine!! if you like wine, you will love this cake!!! the wine enhances the chocolate and this cake is extra moist and delicious!

      Reply
  60. Johlene @Flavours & Frosting says

    December 15, 2014 at 2:52 am

    What a beautiful cake!! Merlot and Chocolate combined in a cake! That´s a new one for me and I LOVE it! Genius! 🙂 xoxo

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:51 am

      Thank you so much, Johlene!! if you like wine, you will love this cake!!! the wine enhances the chocolate and this cake is extra moist and delicious! 🙂

      Reply
  61. Liz says

    December 15, 2014 at 7:18 am

    Oh, my gosh, Alice. Stunning. Just stunning.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:51 am

      Coming from you, Liz. . that’s a HUGE compliment!!! Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  62. Shannon @ Bake. Frost. Repeat. says

    December 15, 2014 at 7:44 am

    This is quite possibly the most beautiful cake I’ve ever seen. Seriously. I love it.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:49 am

      oh my gawd, Shannon, thank you so much! You just made my morning! 🙂 Happy Holidays!!

      Reply
  63. Sarah@WholeandHeavenlyOven says

    December 15, 2014 at 8:10 am

    Booo to a brown Christmas—we had some snow, but the rain we had yesterday took care of that pretty quick. 🙁 But a chocolate-brown cake?! I think I can get on board with that. 😀 This cake is seriously an absolute stunner, Alice! Swooning over that fudgy frosting!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 9:50 am

      Thank you so much Sarah!! it’s supposed to snow here in WI tomorrow!!! 🙂

      Reply
  64. Brenda @ a farmgirl's dabbles says

    December 15, 2014 at 10:01 am

    Super gorgeous cake! I want to try this with the Merlot in it!!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:49 am

      Thank you so much, Brenda!!

      Reply
  65. Brenda @ a farmgirl's dabbles says

    December 15, 2014 at 10:07 am

    And about that brown Christmas. We’re not happy over here, either. Our girls are so disappointed. It is so dreary! 🙁

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:50 am

      We’re supposed to get snow tomorrow. . so maybe it will stick!! 😛 Happy holidays to you, Brenda and your beautiful family. . thankfully I’m sure there will be a lot more snow in January, right?!

      Reply
  66. Marissa+|+Pinch+and+Swirl says

    December 15, 2014 at 10:36 am

    Oh my, this cake is a stunner! Just look at that gorgeous frosting…I’m so intrigued by the wine and chocolate combination.

    Hope you get some of the fluffy white stuff… 😉

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 15, 2014 at 10:51 am

      Thank you so much, Marissa!!! if you like wine, you will love this cake! The merlot enhances the chocolate wonderfully!!

      Reply
  67. Brooks says

    December 15, 2014 at 4:26 pm

    I remember the post about Christmas being better with snow…but as a consolation, Alice, this stunning cake will fill the void. Great styling and photos. Have a merry and bright holiday season!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 16, 2014 at 4:41 pm

      Thank you so much, Brooks!!! Merry Christmas to you, too!!! 🙂

      Reply
  68. Elizabeth @ Enjoy Every Bite says

    December 15, 2014 at 7:29 pm

    This cake looks divine! So so beautiful! And thanks for sharing the story of Martha and Mary! It’s always nice to take time to remember the true meaning of Christmas 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 16, 2014 at 4:42 pm

      Elizabeth, awh thanks for actually reading my post and clicking to that link!!! 🙂 Merry Christ-mas to you too!!

      Reply
  69. Sonali-+The+Foodie+Physician says

    December 15, 2014 at 9:15 pm

    I see we’re both on a wine kick! What a stunningly gorgeous cake! I love the look of the frosted cranberries and pine cones- so festive!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 16, 2014 at 4:43 pm

      Haha, yes!!! Thank you so much, Sonali!! Wishing you a very happy holiday!!

      Reply
  70. Lora @cakeduchess says

    December 16, 2014 at 5:43 am

    I can’t believe you’ll have a brown Christmas…boo…and I will have another very green one w/swinging palm trees. I do dream of seeing snow again on Christmas (one day!). This cake, oh….this cake !Some of your most gorgeous photos every, Alice. LOVE this recipe. I’m obsessed!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 16, 2014 at 4:44 pm

      Lora, thank you so much!! You are too sweet!!! 🙂 I’ll trade you my brown for your green one w/swinging palm trees!!! 🙂

      Reply
  71. Sarah @ Savoring Spoon says

    December 16, 2014 at 7:11 am

    What a beautiful cake! I love the addition of pine cones on the top along with the cranberries. 🙂 So festive. And Merlot in cake? Sounds very decadent and romantic! 🙂 This cake has mystery and delicious written all over it.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 16, 2014 at 4:44 pm

      Hi Sarah!! Thank you so much. . I love that description. . mystery and delicious written all over it! 🙂 Happy Holidays!

      Reply
  72. Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says

    December 16, 2014 at 6:58 pm

    Whoa girl, this cake is such a stunner!! Crushing on everything about this – the merlot and chocolate combo, the cranberries on top! WHOA!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 18, 2014 at 5:10 pm

      Thank you so much, Katrina!!!

      Reply
  73. Julie says

    December 17, 2014 at 2:46 pm

    I live in central Wisconsin, and we just have a dusting of snow. My daughter is getting married Saturday, and was wanting a Winter Wonderland wedding, not happening in southern Wisconsin for sure, but the wedding will be beautiful and wonderful! On to this cake, wow! I can’t wait to try it. I am not the best at baking but I am going to give this cake a try. You have it decorated so beautifully as well! Thank you for sharing! Merry Christmas!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 18, 2014 at 5:13 pm

      Hi Julie! awh thank you so much!!! and I hope your daughter gets the Winter Wonderland wedding!!! It might happen!! Merry Christmas to you too!!! 🙂

      Reply
  74. Beth says

    December 17, 2014 at 5:39 pm

    Alice, your cake is so so SO beautiful!!! My family lives in Minnesota, but I will be totally okay without seeing a single snow flake this year.. there was so much snow last year!!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 18, 2014 at 5:12 pm

      haha, yeah I guess you are right Beth! And I’m sure we’ll have plenty in January!!! Thank you so much for visiting!!

      Reply
  75. Connie+|+URBAN+BAKES says

    December 18, 2014 at 12:21 pm

    Girlfriend, I seriously LOVE this cake. It’s one of the most beautiful ones I have seen yet! Pinning the heck out of this one!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 18, 2014 at 5:10 pm

      Awh, thank you Connie . . coming from YOU, I take that as a huge compliment!!!

      Reply
  76. Geraldine+|+Green+Valley+Kitchen says

    December 18, 2014 at 4:41 pm

    Wow – not only is this cake beautiful – but it’s chocolate and made with wine!! Win win I say.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 18, 2014 at 5:11 pm

      Hi Geraldine. . yes yes, it’s a total win-win 🙂 Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  77. Baby June says

    December 18, 2014 at 5:21 pm

    Absolutely gorgeous! I just love the sugared cranberries on top, so pretty 🙂

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 19, 2014 at 1:01 pm

      Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  78. My+Inner+Chick says

    December 18, 2014 at 5:48 pm

    Merlot! Chocolate Cake! Heaven!
    This post is PURE deliciousness! xxx

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 19, 2014 at 8:59 am

      Thank you SO much!!! Happy Holidays!!

      Reply
  79. Allie+|+Baking+a+Moment says

    December 19, 2014 at 7:16 am

    Oh my goodness! Alice! This cake! I am absolutely in love. It is so beautiful! I love the pinecones and sugared cranberries. And the wine and chocolate flavors sound amazing! This is going on my must-make list for sure. And I’m so happy to hear that you are going to unplug. That’s what I’ve been trying to do too and I think the whole family feels so much closer. They will look back and remember… <3

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 19, 2014 at 8:57 am

      Awh, thanks so much Allie!!! yes. . looking forward to Christmas in Dallas with my family. . praying that you guys have a very lovely and peaceful Christmas .. thinking of and praying for your town. .

      Reply
  80. Kate @ Diethood says

    December 21, 2014 at 9:53 am

    This cake!! It’s beyond beautiful! You did an amazing job. I had a chance to taste Entwine a few months back and it was so good!
    If you get that snow, keep it there. Indiana had enough last year. 😉

    Reply
  81. Chris+@+Shared+Appetite says

    December 22, 2014 at 1:59 pm

    Are you serious with this cake!?!?!? Like, really? It looks so ridiculously pro I can’t even take it. Beautiful photos… those cranberries are gorgeous!

    Reply
  82. Michell Sanglez says

    January 5, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    Gotta try this one :D!

    Reply
  83. ann marie whitten says

    January 16, 2015 at 12:41 pm

    Hi I am about to bake this cake this weekend for my boss’s 50 birthday . she loves chocolate and merlot so this is perfect! I cannot find entwine merlot here at all in ontario canada. Do you have any other options or suggestions? also wondering how your sugared the berries?

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      January 16, 2015 at 3:19 pm

      Hi Ann Marie! Just like cooking with wine, I recommend purchasing a great tasting Merlot to bake with . . (not the cheap stuff) . . buy one that you would want to drink. Entwine’s website says this about their Merlot: “juicy and mouthwatering – think mid-summer plums and cherries, with a hint of black tea.” http://www.entwine-wines.com/our-wines and unless you really want them, I’d leave the sugared cranberries off. . it’s more for decoration and was more for the holidays. . but this is how I did it: http://www.bakersroyale.com/basic-baking-series/sugared-cranberries/. . Happy Baking!!! Please let me know how the cake turns out and happy birthday to your boss!! this Chocolate Merlot Cake is one of my faves!!

      Reply
  84. Jennifer says

    January 18, 2015 at 4:37 pm

    I made this cake for my fiance’s birthday and he loved it. His wine of choice is merlot so when it popped up on pinterest, I had to try it. He said it was like a bit dry but merlot is a dry wine but he said it was very good. The only changes I made were: #1 – I made a 2 layer cake instead of 3 (still using my 9″ springform pans); and, #2 – I had to substitute the wine (which might have changed the taste) because I couldn’t find entwine in St. Louis, so I used barefoot merlot. Those were the only things I changed and I made the icing as written. The cake only lasted a day and it was gone. Definitely a keeper recipe.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      January 18, 2015 at 10:38 pm

      Hi Jennifer, SO HAPPY to hear this!!! Thank you for letting me know!! This cake is one of my faves too! 🙂

      Reply
  85. ann marie whitten says

    January 18, 2015 at 4:56 pm

    I did it and must say, the batter and the icing both tasted awesome!!! I cannot wait until tomorrow to taste it 🙂 Thank you so much for such an awesome cake recipe. My sugared fruit did not look quite as pretty as yours but I chose to use Raspberries and blueberries which compliment the wine I used.
    I do not know where to post the photo for you but THANK YOU!!!! Go to recipe from now on!
    Cheers, Ann marie

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      January 18, 2015 at 10:37 pm

      Ann Marie, so happy to hear this!! I hope you enjoy it! If you’re on Instagram, you can tag @aleedallas and I will see it!! 🙂 or tag @aleedallas and #hipfoodiemom

      Reply
  86. Angie says

    June 7, 2015 at 11:36 am

    Your cake is just beautiful! Please share the size of your pans used. Thank you.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      June 7, 2015 at 7:13 pm

      Hi Angie, thank you!! It’s actually in the recipe card at the top, under “prep time, cook time, total time”. I used 3 , 6 inch round cake pans for the 3 layer cake. I hope you give this recipe a try! Thank you for stopping by!

      Reply
  87. Matteo says

    July 8, 2015 at 8:32 am

    I love your chocolate cake. It looks moist and the frosting looks just amazing! I love especially the way the slice proudly stands there, perfectly cut and firm!
    Matteo

    Reply
  88. Julie says

    October 21, 2015 at 9:55 am

    I would love to try this cake, however I have never used wine in the mix. Will this be OK to serve to children? Forgive me if this is a dumb question. Thanks, looking forward to a white christmas in Wisconsin!

    Reply
  89. Julie says

    October 31, 2015 at 9:06 pm

    I truly loved the idea and look of this cake. Today I made it and wish I knew what I did wrong. The cake seemed dry and left a bitter after taste, perhaps from the cocoa. Hopefully, someone can give me some suggestions, I would like to try it again. Also I found I had way too much frosting left over. I used the 5 cups of confectioners sugar.

    Reply
  90. Shaela says

    November 11, 2015 at 10:02 pm

    Hi –

    I was wondering if you know how deep the cake pans were that you used? 2 inches, 3 inches?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2015 at 6:20 am

      Hi Shaela! how deep? yeah not more than 2 to 2 1/2 inches tall. Hope that helps! Let me know if you try this cake!

      Reply
      • Shaela says

        November 12, 2015 at 4:51 pm

        Thank you –
        I don’t bake often but I saw this and I had to try it out! It’s in the oven as we speak!

        One other question, is the batter supposed to be kind of thick? I feel like when I made cake with my mom as a child the batter was slight runny. Thoughts?

        Reply
  91. Shaela says

    November 12, 2015 at 4:51 pm

    Thank you –
    I don’t bake often but I saw this and I had to try it out! It’s in the oven as we speak!

    One other question, is the batter supposed to be kind of thick? I feel like when I made cake with my mom as a child the batter was slight runny. Thoughts?

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 13, 2015 at 6:02 am

      Hi Shaela, I sent you an email yesterday. . I couldn’t respond to this yesterday here on the blog because my site was down. Anyway, yes this batter is a little thick but not too thick. I hope it turned out ok! What kind of wine did you use? and please let me know how the cake turned out!

      Reply
  92. Jennifer M says

    November 22, 2015 at 9:43 am

    This just came out of the oven and smells DIVINE!! Baking for my husband’s birthday 🙂

    I only made two layers though and they aren’t nearly as thick as yours. If I had done three they would have been very thin. Any tips!? Thanks!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 22, 2015 at 5:19 pm

      Hi Jennifer, what size cake pans are you using? My cake pans were 6″ x 2″ round cake pans, so a lot smaller than the normal or average 8 or 9″ size.

      Reply
  93. april says

    December 17, 2015 at 4:25 am

    This cake is divine! What’s an alternative for apple sauce? If i dont have any?

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 17, 2015 at 6:56 am

      Hi April, I love the apple sauce it helps to add a little moisture and I have only tested this recipe with it, so I would suggest just picking some up from the store. you can even buy a 6 pack of little containers so you don’t have to open a jar container just for this. You could try vegetable oil, HOWEVER again, I have not tested this cake with anything else so cannot guarantee the results. I would just go buy some apple sauce. . if you’ve never baked with it before, it’s divine!

      Reply
  94. Michelle says

    December 17, 2015 at 4:20 pm

    Hi Alice,
    this is cake sounds and looks beyond gorgeous! I cannot wait to try it out! Your point of spending time with family during the holidays……I cannot agree more. We live in beautiful San Francisco, so no snow for us, but a white Christmas is definitely a beautiful scene of the nature.

    you mentioned Entwine is recommended for this recipe, but I don’t have that, can I use another?

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 17, 2015 at 5:52 pm

      Hi Michelle,
      Thank you so much! I used to live in San Francisco, from 1999 to 2001! I loved it! Yes, you can certainly use any Merlot wine. . I would highly recommend a good quality wine! Rule of thumb for me when cooking or baking with wine, use a wine that you would actually drink. Don’t buy the cheap stuff. 🙂

      Reply
      • Michelle says

        December 18, 2015 at 4:20 pm

        Thank you for your advice! Happy holidays and may the new year brings you more inspiration and good health!

        Reply
  95. April says

    March 9, 2016 at 3:15 pm

    I can’t wait to try this!! Do you think 2 8in layers would work? It’s all I have at the moment.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      March 9, 2016 at 3:57 pm

      Sure! The cake will be larger and shorter but should still taste great!!

      Reply
  96. MEAl5 says

    October 26, 2017 at 10:28 am

    This cake is for very happy eating indeed.

    Reply
  97. cakedelivery says

    December 19, 2017 at 5:53 am

    Really a huge variety of cake for Christmas party. Thanks for sharing such an awesome post just before Christmas. It really useful to me.

    Reply
  98. cakedelivery says

    December 19, 2017 at 5:54 am

    Really a huge variety of cake for Christmas party. Thanks for sharing such an awesome post just before Christmas. It really useful to me. Awesome

    Reply
  99. Joanna says

    February 15, 2019 at 11:02 pm

    5 stars
    Delicious batter and icing, haven’t tasted the completed cake yet. My parents will be at my house tomorrow and we will devour this cake. Then I plan to make one for my 93 year old grandma, she loves cake and wine 🙂 I used two 9″ rounds and it baked up beautifully. Bravo on this recipe!!!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      February 15, 2019 at 11:05 pm

      Joanna, I hope you and your grandma love it!!!!

      Reply
  100. mary anderson says

    October 2, 2019 at 11:36 am

    5 stars
    Yum – this look fantastic – I love the fluffiness. This come out perfect.

    Reply
  101. Safwana says

    November 3, 2019 at 11:35 pm

    WOW..The cake looks soo perfect and drooling..

    Reply
  102. Lesley Wright says

    May 31, 2021 at 5:12 am

    5 stars
    Ohhhh! Wow! I made this recipe but did it as cupcakes (cos they are easy to eat/manage with alot of people). I also just made a merlot syrup and brushed it on the cupcakes before I Ice them! Ohhh It’s so delicious! Thank you !

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      June 1, 2021 at 12:41 pm

      Merlot syrup sounds incredible!!! I’m so happy you loved them! thank you, Lesley!

      Reply
  103. Share-collection says

    March 5, 2022 at 5:35 am

    Wow awesome blog. Thanks Again. Really Great.

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Avocado Tofu Veggie Hand Rolls - Hip Foodie Mom says:
    April 24, 2015 at 12:00 am

    […] best part, I’m visiting Wente Vineyards, home of Entwine Wines. .  the wines I’ve used here, here, here and here. I am beyond […]

    Reply
  2. 10 Delicious Boozy Inspired Cake Recipes says:
    October 1, 2015 at 4:14 am

    […] Courtesy of Hip Foodie Mom […]

    Reply
  3. | BHG Delish Dish says:
    February 3, 2016 at 8:55 am

    […] Not this time, thanks to Hip Foodie Mom. Pour in the red wine then top with candied cranberries for Chocolate Merlot Cake worth cheers-ing […]

    Reply
  4. A Cake Bakes In Brooklyn | says:
    February 28, 2016 at 4:46 pm

    […] Chocolate Merlot Cake – Hip Foodie … – 3-layer Chocolate Merlot Cake with Chocolate Merlot Frosting. This delicious cake needs to be on every holiday table. Chocolate lovers, you need this cake! […]

    Reply
  5. 30 Droolworthy Chocolate Cake Recipes - Beyond Frosting says:
    March 4, 2016 at 7:41 am

    […] Chocolate Merlot Cake […]

    Reply
  6. 10 Delicious Boozy Inspired Cake Recipes | | Girly Design Blog says:
    October 14, 2016 at 4:31 am

    […] Courtesy of Hip Foodie Mom […]

    Reply
  7. 25 Sweet Treats + A $100 Ghirardelli Giveaway! • Hip Foodie Mom says:
    April 9, 2017 at 1:30 am

    […] Chocolate Merlot Cake . .  I looovvveeeee this cake! (Photo above) and yes, if you eat a slice, you’ll want it to […]

    Reply
  8. The Best Chocolate Cake. Ever. • Hip Foodie Mom says:
    April 9, 2017 at 5:02 am

    […] And delicious. I used Pillsbury Creamy Supreme Dark Chocolate. Or you can use this frosting or this chocolate merlot frosting. To die […]

    Reply
  9. Sugared Cranberries • Hip Foodie Mom says:
    December 12, 2017 at 6:15 am

    […] use them to decorate my Chocolate Merlot Cake, which if you don’t know what you’re making for Christmas Dinner, this might be […]

    Reply
  10. Daily Eats: My 25th Birthday! - victoria yates nutrition says:
    January 7, 2018 at 3:44 pm

    […] Recipe adapted. View original recipe HERE. […]

    Reply
  11. Chocolate Merlot Cake | pretty damn delightful says:
    April 30, 2018 at 4:07 pm

    […] cake I made for myself last year was this Chocolate Merlot Cake. It was delicious, but then earlier this year I finally made my dream chocolate cake (that I posted […]

    Reply
  12. Types of Wine Grapes: A Dive Into 20 Popular Varieties says:
    July 13, 2018 at 4:07 pm

    […] you want to take it one step further, you can even make a Chocolate Merlot Cake out of it, which I must admit looks […]

    Reply
  13. Merlot Chocolate Cake and the Chaos of Vineyard Terrior | WineScribble says:
    November 8, 2018 at 12:17 pm

    […] Awesome recipe for merlot chocolate cake […]

    Reply
  14. 10 Delicious Boozy Inspired Cake Recipes - Food Goes in Here says:
    November 22, 2018 at 10:38 am

    […] Courtesy of Hip Foodie Mom […]

    Reply
  15. Avocado Tofu Veggie Hand Rolls • Hip Foodie Mom says:
    January 31, 2019 at 10:48 am

    […] best part, I’m visiting Wente Vineyards, home of Entwine Wines. .  the wines I’ve used here, here, here and here. I am beyond […]

    Reply
  16. VLOG 006 | Vineyard Terroir | Merlot Chocolate Cake and Chaos – says:
    July 26, 2019 at 8:34 pm

    […] Chocolate Merlot Cake […]

    Reply
  17. Holiday Gingerbread Layer Cake + Video • Hip Foodie Mom says:
    December 9, 2019 at 5:30 am

    […] needs to be cake. We hope you try this one and we wish you all a joyous holiday season!! Click here to see how to make the sugared […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Facebook

Meet Alice

Alice Choi from Hip Foodie MomHello! My name is Alice. Here, at Hip Foodie Mom, you will find fresh food recipes using local, seasonal ingredients. From meat dishes to vegetarian to Asian inspired dishes, you are sure to find something you like. Thank you for stopping by!

Popular Posts

Air Fryer Grilled Cheese! A super easy and delicious, pretty much fool-proof way to make a crispy, golden brown grilled cheese sandwich. The air fryer does all the work for you. 
Crispy Cheese Pan Pizza recipe from King Arthur Flour, adapted by Food 52. I have figured out a way to make it even more crispy. 
How To Make Zucchini Waffles! A delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your meal! Break out the waffle baker for this one! Enjoy!
How To Cook Beef Tenderloin at home! Looking for a special recipe to make over the holidays? Wrapped in bacon and with a Pinot Noir sauce!
Classic Pecan Pie made with Land O Lakes® Unsalted Butter! The perfect pie to make for the holidays! We hope you enjoy!

JOIN HIP FOODIE MOM

Subscribe today for a FREE weekly newsletter!




Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 Hip Foodie Mom. All content, recipes and photographs are copyrighted to Alice Choi and are the property of Hip Foodie Mom. They may not be republished in part or whole without permission and proper credit. Contact me to seek republishing and syndication rights.

JOIN THOUSANDS OF FOOD LOVERS!!

Get a weekly newsletter with RECIPES delivered straight to your inbox for FREE!

Your information will *never* be shared or sold to a 3rd party, nor will we spam your inbox.