750g/1lb 10oz cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)
8–10 whole cherries, preferably with stalks attached
175g/6oz plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda
175g/6oz soft brown sugar
175g/6oz caster sugar
50²µ/1¾´Ç³ú caster sugar
30g/1oz cocoa powder
200g/7oz dark chocolate, chopped
50²µ/1¾´Ç³ú dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
200g/7oz unsalted butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing
75ml/2½fl oz buttermilk
3 large eggs, beaten
400ml/14fl oz double or whipping cream
3 tbsp kirsch or cherry brandy