When the sweet scent of chocolate and cherries fills your kitchen, it’s easy to forget about the chaotic world outside. I discovered this Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake out of sheer curiosity one rainy afternoon, and it has quickly become my go-to for any gathering or craving. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that impresses both friends and family alike.
Imagine cutting into a soft, fudge-like cake studded with tart cherry pockets, every slice draped in a luscious chocolate frosting. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to bring comfort to your day without the fuss of complicated recipes. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes for an irresistibly indulgent centerpiece. Whether it’s a celebration or just a casual weeknight treat, this chocolate cherry delight will become a cherished favorite. So grab that cake mix and let’s dive into a baking adventure that promises to elevate your dessert game effortlessly!
Why is Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake a must-try?
Indulging in this cake means enjoying a delightful mix of flavors, thanks to the perfect pairing of chocolate and cherries. Minimal effort is required; just a few simple steps and you’ll have a stunning dessert. Versatile enough for any occasion, this cake impresses at parties or as a cozy weeknight treat. Quick prep and bake time ensures you’ll have delicious results in no time. Rave reviews guaranteed, as friends and family will be asking for seconds! Treat yourself with this Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake to make every moment feel special.
Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• 1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix – This serves as the base, making your baking experience quick and easy.
• 1 Can Cherry Pie Filling – Adds a luscious burst of tartness; you can also use fresh cherries for a unique twist.
• 2 Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture to the cake.
• 1 Egg Yolk – Enhances richness for an even more decadent cake.
• ½ teaspoon Almond Extract – Infuses a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
For the Frosting
• 1 ½ Cups Unsalted Butter – Create a creamy texture; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 3-4 Cups Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust the amount for your desired sweetness.
• 1 Cup Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the frosting, combining beautifully with the cake.
• ¼ Cup Whole Milk – Provides the right consistency; feel free to substitute with almond milk if desired.
• ¼ Cup Light Corn Syrup – Gives the frosting a smooth, glossy finish.
• 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile with its warm notes.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
For the Decoration
• 1 Cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunks – Sprinkle on top of the frosting for added texture and a chocolaty crunch.
• Sprinkles – Use your favorite colors to customize the cake for any occasion.
With this beautifully simple Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake recipe, you’re on your way to creating a dessert that’s bound to become a beloved family favorite!
How to Make Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Getting your oven hot ensures a perfectly baked cake with a soft, tender crumb.
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Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it. This helps the cake release easily after baking, making cleanup a breeze.
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Combine the chocolate cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, egg yolk, and almond extract in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well blended, creating a rich, chocolatey batter.
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Add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks to the batter and gently mix them in. These will melt slightly while baking, adding a divine chocolaty richness to every bite.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
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Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent the frosting from melting off.
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Make the frosting by using a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter on high speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
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Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder on low speed, mixing until combined. Beat for another 2-3 minutes to incorporate air into the frosting.
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Incorporate the melted chocolate, whole milk, light corn syrup, pure vanilla extract, and salt. Beat all together for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
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Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 full minutes. This creates a light and fluffy frosting that’s easy to spread.
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Frost the cooled cake generously with the chocolate frosting. Feel free to get creative with your decorating for added flair!
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Top with chocolate chunks and colorful sprinkles before slicing and serving to add that extra touch of delight.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cherries for a photogenic finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake
Fridge: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious, making your dessert even better the next day.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the cake, slice it first and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Room Temperature: If serving the cake the same day, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out!
Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions for your cake, making it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix instead of regular to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
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Fresh Cherries: Swap out the cherry pie filling for fresh, pitted cherries, enhancing flavor and texture with a seasonal touch.
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract into the batter for a refreshing mint-chocolate combination that’ll elevate every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly treat.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute the chocolate frosting with a tangy cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of flavor – a delicious twist the whole family will love!
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Drizzle of Caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosted cake for an indulgent finishing touch that adds a beautiful richness.
These variations allow you to create a cake that’s tailored to suit any occasion or personal preference, ensuring your Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake becomes an even more memorable dessert!
Expert Tips for Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chunks for the best flavor; this elevates the overall taste of your Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated; overmixing can lead to a dense cake, losing that delightful lightness.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or swap the cherry pie filling for another fruit flavor according to your preference for a unique twist on this recipe.
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Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired spreadable consistency; this helps in achieving that perfect creamy look.
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Storage Tip: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness; it’s even more delicious the next day!
What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Creating a memorable meal means finding the perfect accompaniments to this decadent treat.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the dessert experience. Plump strawberries or tart raspberries add vibrant color and a burst of juicy flavor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: There’s nothing quite like a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside warm cake. The smoothness melts beautifully into the chocolate, creating a luxurious dessert sensation.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream offers a light, airy complement to the rich frosting. This fluffy addition brings a lovely, indulgent texture to each forkful.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over a slice intensifies the chocolate flavor, making every bite even more heavenly. It’s an extra treat that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Mint Tea: An herbal tea like peppermint refreshes the palate after a rich dessert. This soothing beverage adds an aromatic touch without competing for attention.
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Hazelnut Coffee: Pairing with a cup of hazelnut coffee enhances the cake’s flavors, making the whole experience cozy and inviting. The warm notes add depth to your dessert moment.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti provides a delightful textural contrast. Enjoy them alongside your cake for a charming tea-time treat that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
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Cherry Compote: Serve a spoonful of cherry compote over the cake to accentuate the cherry flavor. The added sweet and tartness enhances the cake’s profile, making it a standout dessert.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake in advance is a fantastic time-saver, especially for busy weeks! You can mix the cake batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, just make sure to cover it tightly to maintain its moisture. Additionally, the frosting can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to complete the cake, simply allow the frosting to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften before spreading it on the cooled cake. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to wow your family without any last-minute stress!
Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for this cake?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for firm, plump ones without dark spots or blemishes. If using fresh cherries over pie filling, opt for sweet varieties like Bing cherries when they’re in season for a delightful pop of natural sweetness!
What is the best way to store leftover cake?
Very! Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you prefer it at room temperature, it can be left out for up to 2 hours, just cover it loosely to prevent drying.
Can I freeze the Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze this cake, slice it into individual servings. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method helps prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very! If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, it might help to check the freshness of your baking powder. If it’s old, it may not have enough leavening power. Additionally, be sure to mix the ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake contains eggs, dairy, and gluten, so if you or your guests have allergies, consider using egg substitutes, gluten-free cake mix, and dairy-free butter alternatives to make it more accommodating. Always check labels for any hidden allergens!
Irresistible Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it.
- Combine the chocolate cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, egg yolk, and almond extract in a large bowl.
- Add the semi-sweet chocolate chunks to the batter and gently mix them in.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the frosting by beating the softened unsalted butter on high speed until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined.
- Incorporate the melted chocolate, whole milk, light corn syrup, pure vanilla extract, and salt.
- Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 3 full minutes.
- Frost the cooled cake generously with the chocolate frosting.
- Top with chocolate chunks and colorful sprinkles.