Craving a delightful dessert that marries the rich flavor of chocolate with the sweet, tart burst of cherries? Look no further than our Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe! This scrumptious treat is perfect for any occasion, be it a birthday, a special celebration, or just a weekend indulgence. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a cake that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. Read on to discover how you can easily whip up this heavenly dessert in your own kitchen.

What is Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Chocolate Cherry Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the deep, luscious flavors of chocolate with the bright, juicy notes of cherries. This cake typically features a moist chocolate base, enhanced by the addition of cherry pie filling, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Topped with a rich chocolate frosting, this cake is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Ingredients List for Chocolate Cherry Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 box angel food cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 21 ounce cherry pie filling (1 can)
For the Frosting:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Substitutions and Variations
While the classic Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe is delicious as is, there are several substitutions and variations you can try to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Cake Mix Alternatives: You can substitute the angel food cake mix with a devil's food cake mix for a richer chocolate flavor or use a gluten-free cake mix if you have dietary restrictions.
- Egg Replacements: If you prefer an egg-free version, you can use ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as a substitute for the two eggs.
- Cherry Variations: Instead of cherry pie filling, try using fresh or frozen cherries for a more natural taste. Alternatively, other fruit fillings like raspberry or blueberry can also complement the chocolate flavor.
- Frosting Twists: Add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur or a teaspoon of almond extract to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor. You could also sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for added texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Chocolate Cherry Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix, eggs, and cherry pie filling. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth. The batter will be thick due to the cherry filling, which adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is cooling, start making the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in the semisweet chocolate chips until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Finish the Frosting
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the chocolate mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cake. This will help it set properly and make it easier to spread.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cooled cake using a spatula or a knife. For a smooth finish, you can dip the spatula in warm water before spreading. Let the frosted cake sit for a few minutes to allow the frosting to set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Not Cooling the Cake: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting.
- Using Cold Butter: For the frosting, make sure the butter is fully melted and mixed well with the milk to avoid a grainy texture.
- Incorrect Pan Size: Using the wrong pan size can affect baking time and cake texture. Stick to the recommended 9x13 inch pan for best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cake
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can enhance its presentation and flavor by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Fresh cherries or a drizzle of cherry syrup can also add a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Cherry Cake
- Cherry Garnish: Decorate the top of the cake with fresh cherries or maraschino cherries for a pop of color.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls on top of the frosting for an added touch of decadence.
- Layered Cake: For a more sophisticated look, slice the cake horizontally and add a layer of cherry pie filling or whipped cream between the layers before frosting the top.
- Edible Flowers: Garnish with edible flowers like pansies or violets for a beautiful, natural look.
Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before using to achieve a smoother batter and frosting.
- Cake Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
- Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Freezing the Cake: This cake can be frozen without the frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different type of cake mix? A: Yes, you can use any chocolate cake mix if you prefer. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Q2: What can I use instead of cherry pie filling? A: You can use fresh or frozen cherries, or try different fruit fillings like raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist.
Q3: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to 3 months.
Q4: Can I make this cake in advance? A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day of serving. This helps save time and ensures the frosting is fresh and smooth.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for beginners? A: Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners. Just follow the step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a delicious cake ready to impress.
Conclusion
Indulging in a slice of Chocolate Cherry Cake is a delightful experience, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that anyone, from beginners to experienced bakers, can create a stunning and delicious dessert. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow our guide, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this delectable cake. Happy baking!
PrintChocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Indulge in this delectable Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe. Using a simple angel food cake mix, combined with cherry pie filling and topped with a luscious chocolate frosting, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For Cake:
- 1 box angel food cake mix
- 2 eggs
- 21 ounce cherry pie filling (1 can)
- For Frosting:
- 5 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven according to cake mix package instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and cherry pie filling. Mix until well blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake as directed on the cake mix package. Allow to cool.
- For the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the milk and chocolate chips, continuing to stir until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- For added flair, garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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