Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and hot coffee. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until smooth. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack.

While the chocolate cake cools, prepare the vanilla-scented cherries. If using fresh cherries, wash, pit, and slice them; for jarred cherries, simply drain the liquid. In a bowl, combine the cherries with a splash of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of sugar, adjusting to taste based on the tartness of your fruit. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

For the creamy mascarpone filling, beat mascarpone cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined and smooth. Use a handheld mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring no lumps remain. Once prepared, set the mascarpone filling aside in the refrigerator.

Once the chocolate cakes are completely cool, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the mascarpone filling evenly over the top, followed by half of the vanilla cherries and their juices. Carefully place the second layer of cake on top and repeat the layering process with the remaining mascarpone filling and cherries.

To finish your cake, prepare the optional chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream until it just starts to boil. Pour the hot cream over chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl and stir until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly to thicken, then pour the ganache over the assembled cake.

Chill your completed Black Forest-inspired cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the layers and flavors. Slice and serve with an extra dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.