Grease two 9x1-1/2-inch round baking pans; sprinkle lightly with cocoa powder; set aside. In a very large mixing bowl combine the 2 cups granulated sugar, flour, 3/4 cup cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds until combined, then for 2 minutes on medium speed.

Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until cakes test done. Cool on a rack for 10 minutes. Remove from pans. Cool completely. Split each cake horizontally to make 4 layers total.

For filling, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and chocolate pieces. Gently stir in cherries. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread 1/3 of the filling on the bottom layer of cake. Top with another cake layer. Continue layering the filling and cake, ending with cake.

For frosting, in a bowl beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add the 1/2 cup cocoa powder and half of the powdered sugar. Slowly beat in half of the milk and the remaining vanilla. Beat in remaining powdered sugar. Beat in additional milk until of spreading consistency. Frost cake. Garnish with shaved chocolate and edible flower petals, if desired. Makes 14 to 16 servings.

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, substitute sour milk. For each cup of sour milk needed, place 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar in a glass measuring cup. Add enough milk to make 1 cup total liquid; stir. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes before using.

Make and frost cake. Cover and chill in the refrigerator up to 12 hours. Garnish with shaved chocolate and edible flower petals, if desired.