The aroma of warm chocolate mingling with a hint of cherry has a way of wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. This is the essence of my irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cake, a delightful creation that marries rich chocolate with the tartness of cherries in a quick and easy dessert. Using a simple box cake mix and cherry pie filling, you can whip up this moist, fudgy treat in just over an hour—perfect for any celebration or cozy night in. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its crowd-pleasing flavor and comforting texture. Are you ready to dive into a slice of happiness? Let’s get baking!
Why is this Chocolate Cherry Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Quick & Easy: With just a box cake mix and canned cherry pie filling, you can make this dessert in just over an hour—perfect for busy days!
Moist & Fudgy: Expect a cake that’s not only moist but also decadently fudgy, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this cake can dazzle at parties or cozy family dinners—serving with a scoop of ice cream makes it even more special!
Endless Variations: Enjoy swapping cherry pie filling for blueberry or strawberry for a fun twist. Want something lighter? Try a fruit glaze instead of frosting!
Dive into this delightful Chocolate Cherry Cake, and you might also love our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls or Chocolate Chip Sourdough.
Chocolate Cherry Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to create the magic with these simple ingredients!
For the Cake
- Box Chocolate Cake Mix – This serves as the delicious base; ensure it’s a 15-ounce box for the best texture.
- Can Cherry Pie Filling – Adds moisture and delightful tartness; feel free to swap it with your favorite fruit pie filling.
- Large Eggs – These act as a binder, ensuring a well-structured cake.
- Egg Yolk – Adding an egg yolk enriches the cake, making it even denser and more satisfying.
- Almond Extract – This ingredient enhances the flavor profile; vanilla extract can work as a great substitute.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks – Infuse rich chocolate goodness into your cake; chocolate chips can also be used as an alternative.
For the Frosting
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate – This creates a luscious frosting; make sure to melt and cool it before incorporating.
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for a creamy texture; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for the best results.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust for your preferred sweetness level.
- Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor; be sure to use unsweetened cocoa for the perfect balance.
- Whole Milk – Helps achieve the ideal frosting consistency; cream can be a richer substitute.
- Light Corn Syrup – Provides a glossy finish for your frosting; honey can be a tasty alternative.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – This adds depth of flavor in your frosting, rounding out the sweetness.
- Salt – A key balance to the sweetness in both the cake and frosting.
Gather these ingredients for your Chocolate Cherry Cake, and let’s bake a delicious treat that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it generously with butter or cooking spray to ensure a smooth release after baking. This step is crucial for the success of the Chocolate Cherry Cake, as it creates a deliciously moist texture without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the box chocolate cake mix, cherry pie filling, large eggs, egg yolk, and almond extract. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, blend the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. You should achieve a rich, thick batter that is well-mixed, with no dry lumps remaining. This is the foundation of your Chocolate Cherry Cake’s delightful flavor.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chunks
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chunks into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just incorporate them evenly so that every bite of your Chocolate Cherry Cake will have rich chocolate bursts. This step elevates the cake’s indulgence, ensuring that each slice is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This is the moment to anticipate the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 5: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the Chocolate Cherry Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential for achieving a moist and fudgy texture, which makes this cake so irresistible.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
As the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step will create a base for your rich frosting. Next, gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined, to achieve a sweet and chocolatey consistency.
Step 7: Combine Frosting Ingredients
Add the melted semi-sweet chocolate, whole milk, light corn syrup, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the frosting mixture. Beat everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious frosting will complement the moist Chocolate Cherry Cake beautifully, so take your time mixing to ensure perfect consistency.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the top. Feel free to add extra decorations like chocolate shavings or cherries on top for an eye-catching presentation. This final touch transforms your Chocolate Cherry Cake into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering!
Step 9: Slice and Serve
After frosting, slice the cake into generous pieces and serve at room temperature. This delicious Chocolate Cherry Cake can be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent dessert that promises to delight family and friends alike!
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with these delightful pairings that complement the rich and moist flavors of your cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm chocolate, enhancing the cake’s rich taste. Scoop some on top for a transcendent experience!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a fluffy texture that balances the dense cake perfectly, making each bite feel luxurious.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache adds an extra layer of decadence and depth, creating a chocolate lover’s dream dessert.
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Berries Salad: A fresh berry salad with strawberries and blueberries brings a burst of tartness and color, offering a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
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Coffee: A cup of coffee, especially a dark roast or espresso, intensifies the chocolate flavors while cutting through the richness, making for a wonderfully sophisticated pairing.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing non-sweet option, sparkling water with a splash of lime cleanses the palate and lifts the heavy chocolate notes.
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Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Combining chocolate and minty freshness, this ice cream variety creates a delightful twist that your guests will love, providing a refreshing ending to each slice.
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Chocolate-Covered Cherries: Tie in the cherry flavor with chocolate-covered cherries on the side; their sweet tartness enhances the cake and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Choose your favorites to create a deliciously indulgent spread alongside your irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Cherry Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing you to bake fresh cake whenever you’re ready. Simply mix the cake ingredients and pour them into your greased pan, then cover tightly and refrigerate. For optimal quality, don’t fold in the chocolate chunks until you’re ready to bake, ensuring they stay nicely melted and delicious. When you’re prepared to serve, bake the cake as directed and whip up the frosting while it cools. This way, you’ll have a warm, delectable Chocolate Cherry Cake with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve its moist texture and rich flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store leftover slices in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Wrap them securely to avoid moisture loss.
Freezer: You can freeze the Chocolate Cherry Cake for up to 2-3 months. Slice the cake, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container.
Reheating: Thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a deliciously gooey treat!
Chocolate Cherry Cake Variations
Feel free to make this delightful Chocolate Cherry Cake your own with these easy and tasty swaps!
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Fruit Swap: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a refreshing twist. The juicy berries will add their own unique sweetness to every slice!
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Frosting Alternatives: Try a whipped cream topping instead of chocolate frosting for a lighter option. This will give your cake a delightful airy texture while keeping it moist.
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Cupcake Transformation: Convert the cake into delightful cupcakes by dividing the batter into muffin tins. Bake for 18-22 minutes for individual portions that are fun to serve!
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the batter for an added crunch. This will bring a lovely texture contrast when you bite into the cake.
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Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: For a richer chocolate flavor, incorporate dark chocolate chunks instead of semi-sweet. The deeper taste will elevate your indulgence level!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to create a delicious version for those with dietary restrictions. The cherries will ensure a moist and satisfying cake every time!
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Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an unexpected flavor kick that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherries.
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Decorative Touch: Top the frosted cake with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated look. It’ll make a simple cake feel truly elegant, perfect for any occasion!
Now that you’re ready to customize your Chocolate Cherry Cake, don’t forget to enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream! You might also love the flavors in our Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls for another delightful dessert option. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Cake
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Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chocolate cake mix and cherry pie filling for the best flavor in your Chocolate Cherry Cake. Subpar ingredients can lead to a bland cake.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth batter and fluffy frosting. This prevents curdling and uneven textures.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the batter, mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. You want that moist, fudgy texture!
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Proper Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, ruining the presentation.
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Storage Secrets: Store leftovers wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a week. For longer storage, freeze slices and enjoy later!
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Flavor Twists: Feel free to experiment with pie fillings. While cherry is delightful, blueberry or peach can add exciting new flavors to your Chocolate Cherry Cake experience.
Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cherries for my Chocolate Cherry Cake?
When selecting cherries, look for those that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant color. Ideally, they should be blemish-free and have a sweet aroma. If you’re using canned cherry pie filling, examine the label for quality ingredients to ensure your Chocolate Cherry Cake has a delightful flavor.
How should I store my Chocolate Cherry Cake?
You can store the Cake at room temperature for up to 3 days while tightly covered to retain moisture. For longer preservation, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Make sure to wrap slices in plastic wrap so they don’t dry out.
Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Absolutely! For freezing, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container, and you can freeze for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 10-15 seconds when you crave a warm slice.
What if my cake is too dense or dry?
If your Chocolate Cherry Cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter; remember to mix until just combined. For dryness, ensure you measure flour correctly, and don’t bake for too long. A moist cake should be springy and fudgy, so keep an eye on it as it bakes—it’s done when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Are there any dietary considerations for this Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Yes, if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Additionally, some may have allergies to nuts when using almond extract; vanilla extract serves as a perfect substitute. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate everyone’s needs.
What’s the best way to enhance the flavor of my Chocolate Cherry Cake?
To elevate the flavor, you can add a pinch of espresso powder to the cake batter, which enhances the chocolate notes beautifully. Additionally, serve it with a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for that extra indulgent touch.
Deliciously Moist Chocolate Cherry Cake That Everyone Loves
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Combine the cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, egg yolk, and almond extract in a mixing bowl and blend until smooth.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chunks.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat softened butter until fluffy, then gradually add confectioners' sugar and cocoa powder until combined.
- Add melted chocolate, milk, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the frosting mixture and beat until smooth.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Slice the cake and serve at room temperature, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.
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