While flicking through old family photo albums, I stumbled upon a picture of our holiday gatherings, where a stunning Chocolate Cherry Cake always took center stage. The memories came rushing back—laughter, the smell of freshly baked chocolate wafting through the kitchen, and the sweet surprise of cherry filling nestled between those rich layers. This deliciously moist cake, also known as Black Forest cake, is not just an easy dessert; it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion and can easily accommodate gluten-free diets. With layers of decadent chocolate cake, luscious homemade frosting, and a delightful burst of cherries, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds. So, are you ready to create some unforgettable moments around this perfect homemade treat?
Why is this Chocolate Cherry Cake unforgettable?
Decadent Layers: Each slice features moist chocolate cake paired with a luscious cherry filling, creating a classic flavor combination that everyone will adore.
Customizable Delight: You can easily tailor this recipe to suit your dietary needs, whether you prefer the traditional route or the gluten-free option.
Simple Yet Impressive: Despite its gourmet appearance, this cake is easy to make, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike—just like our delightful Salted Caramel Chocolate recipe!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this cake ensures happy faces at the table.
Memorable Moments: As you indulge in this dessert, you’ll create lasting memories, capturing the spirit of family and togetherness with every delicious bite.
Cherry Chocolate Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- White sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; swap with coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
- Gluten-Free Baking Mix – Acts as a binding agent; traditional all-purpose flour can be used for a non-gluten-free version.
- Cocoa powder – Rich chocolate flavor contributor; ensure it’s unsweetened for optimal taste.
- Baking powder – Essential for leavening; check freshness for effective rising.
- Baking soda – Works as an additional leavening agent; helps create a fluffy texture.
- Kosher salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Eggs – Key for binding and structure; flax eggs are a great substitute for a vegan option.
- Milk – Adds necessary moisture; dairy-free alternatives like almond milk also work well.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil is a good alternative.
- Vanilla bean paste – Enhances flavor; vanilla extract can be used if preferred.
- Almond extract – Adds a unique flavor profile; can be omitted for those with nut allergies.
- Hot water – Activates cocoa powder, ensuring a moist result.
For the Frosting
- Butter (melted) – Creates a rich, flavorful base for the frosting; can use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; always sift to avoid lumps.
For the Filling
- Cherry pie filling – Adds sweetness and texture between the layers; fresh cherries are a wonderful lighter option.
This Cherry Chocolate Cake is a showstopper you won’t want to miss out on, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while creating beautiful memories!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare two or three 9-inch round cake pans by spraying them generously with cooking spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, gluten-free baking mix, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Ensure the ingredients are well combined and free of lumps, creating a uniform dry mixture that will provide structure to your delicious Cherry Chocolate Cake.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla bean paste, almond extract (if using), and hot water. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and fully incorporated, creating a rich wet mixture that will enhance the moisture of your cake.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a whisk, mix gently and thoroughly until just combined; the batter will be quite thin, which is perfect for a moist and tender Cherry Chocolate Cake. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s light texture.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Carefully divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using three pans, start checking at 20-25 minutes for doneness to ensure they don’t overbake.
Step 6: Cool Cakes
Once the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This crucial cooling time prevents melting when you frost the layers of your Cherry Chocolate Cake.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
To prepare the delicious frosting, combine the melted butter and cocoa powder in a mixing bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, stirring until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Adjust the consistency as necessary, and mix in a splash of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
Step 8: Assemble Cake
To assemble your Cherry Chocolate Cake, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of cherry pie filling on top, followed by the next layer. Repeat this step with any remaining layers, finishing with the top layer and generously covering the entire cake with the homemade frosting for a stunning presentation.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Chocolate Cake
Fridge: Store your Cherry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping it moist and fresh.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving!
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will enhance the flavors of the chocolate and cherry filling.
Leftover Frosting: If you have any leftover homemade frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week and use it to refresh the cake layers when serving.
Expert Tips for Cherry Chocolate Cake
Cooling Matters: Ensure your cakes are fully cooled before frosting to avoid melting and sliding. This keeps your layers intact and your frosting looking fabulous.
Perfect Layers: Always aim for a plain cake layer on top during assembly. It creates a clean finish and makes frosting easier and more appealing.
Avoid Sticking: When preparing gluten-free cakes, apply extra oil or cooking spray generously to prevent sticking. This ensures a smooth release from the pans.
Taste Test Your Frosting: Before frosting, sample your homemade chocolate frosting and adjust sweetness based on the cherry pie filling. This balance is key to your cake’s flavor harmony.
Layer Compatibility: If you’re adding fresh cherries, make sure they’re pitted and chopped evenly to blend perfectly with the chocolate layers, enhancing the overall taste of your Cherry Chocolate Cake.
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Cake
Indulging in a slice of this decadent cake opens the door to wonderful pairing possibilities that elevate your dessert experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully complements the rich chocolate and tart cherries, enhancing the cake’s flavors. Try serving a scoop on the side for a classic dessert duo.
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the chocolatey depth of the cake, balancing its richness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream not only adds a luxurious touch but also helps to cut through the sweetness, enhancing every bite.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the top adds an indulgent layer of richness, creating an elegant presentation that will impress guests and family alike.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with this Chocolate Cherry Cake, as the bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor while offering a comforting warm beverage.
Mint Tea: Refreshing peppermint tea provides a delightful contrast to the rich cake, cleansing the palate and adding a new layer of flavor. Serve it warm for a soothing experience after a sweet meal.
Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert table by pairing this cake with a chocolate fondue; guests can dip fresh fruit pieces creating a delightful chocolate cherry experience.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: For a touch of elegance, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top of the frosting, adding texture and enhancing the chocolate experience with each bite.
Elevate your mealtime by exploring these delightful pairings, transforming a simple slice of Chocolate Cherry Cake into an extraordinary dessert experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Cherry Cake layers are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the chocolate cake rounds up to 24 hours in advance; simply let them cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to keep them moist. The homemade frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just re-whip it slightly before using to restore its creamy texture. Additionally, you can prepare the cherry pie filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for the same duration. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cake with the filling and frost it for a showstopper dessert that’s just as delicious as if it were made fresh that day!
Cherry Chocolate Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore new flavors and make this delightful cake your very own!
Filling Swap: Use raspberry pie filling instead of cherry for a delightful twist that adds a tart edge to the cake’s sweetness. Imagine the burst of flavors with each bite, transforming each slice into a berry bliss!
Frosting Variation: Try using whipped cream instead of chocolate frosting for a lighter touch. The airy texture complements the cake beautifully, making it feel like a refreshing dessert on warm days.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. This can create a moist and satisfying cake even without the eggs—perfect for your plant-based friends!
Different Extracts: Experiment with orange extract alongside vanilla for a citrusy kick that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and cherry. This surprising layer of flavor will have your guests guessing the secret ingredient!
Nutty Addition: Add toasted walnuts or almonds into the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor enhancement. This gives your cake an unforeseen delightful surprise that adds depth to each slice!
Chocolate Chips: Stir in dark chocolate chips into the batter before baking for extra gooey bites of chocolate. Who could resist the rich, melted chocolate oozing through—pure chocolate lover joy!
Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the chocolate frosting for a spicy kick! The heat will be subtle at first, but you’ll relish the warm finish that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure your cake stays gluten-free by sticking with certified gluten-free baking mix and using fresh cherries instead of canned filling, preserving the lightness of each slice. This helps maintain the integrity of flavor while accommodating dietary needs.
By incorporating these variations, you can create an entirely new experience with each delicious bake. No matter how you choose to customize, this cake, with its homely warmth and classic charm, will always bring everyone to the table—just like our lovely Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake will!
Cherry Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe cherries for my cake?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for firm, plump fruits with a glossy skin. Check for any dark spots, as they can indicate overripeness. A sweet aroma is a good sign too! Fresh cherries should be deep red for the best flavor and juiciness.
How should I store leftover Cherry Chocolate Cake?
I recommend placing your Cherry Chocolate Cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in a freezer-safe container to maintain its moisture.
Can I freeze my Cherry Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each layer of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil if you have it. This prevents freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw layers overnight in the fridge for the best results.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
Very! If your Cherry Chocolate Cake turns out dry, don’t fret. Ensure you accurately measure ingredients and follow baking times carefully. If it’s already baked, consider brushing the layers with a simple syrup (made with equal parts sugar and water boiled together) to add moisture back into the cake.
Are there any allergens to consider with this recipe?
Yes, definitely! This Cherry Chocolate Cake contains common allergens like gluten (if using all-purpose flour), dairy (in the butter and milk), and nuts (with almond extract). For gluten-free, ensure your baking mix is certified. You can replace dairy with alternatives like almond or oat milk, and skip the almond extract if nut allergies are a concern.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Of course! A great trick is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. For this recipe, check at about 30 minutes, or 20-25 minutes if using three pans. Adjust your baking time accordingly to ensure a perfectly baked Cherry Chocolate Cake!
Cherry Chocolate Cake: The Ultimate Decadent Delight You Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs and wet ingredients until smooth.
- Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients and mix gently.
- Divide the batter and pour it into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Mix the frosting ingredients until smooth.
- Assemble the cake with frosting and cherry filling between the layers.