Name: Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 cup cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade); 2 tsp vanilla extract

The moment you take a bite of chocolate cherry cake, your taste buds will experience a delightful explosion of flavors. Rich, velvety chocolate meets the juicy burst of cherries, creating a symphony of sweetness that dances on your palate. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone weak in the knees, promising an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

I remember the first time I made this cake; my kitchen looked like a chocolate factory exploded! Cherry juice splattered everywhere, and I was left with chocolate-stained fingers and an unshakeable grin. Whether it’s a birthday bash, a cozy family gathering, or just because it’s Tuesday—this cake brings joy and a sprinkle of delightful chaos to the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chocolate cherry cake is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Visually stunning with its deep colors and luscious frosting, it steals the show at any gathering.
Versatile enough for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress friends and family.

Ingredients for chocolate cherry cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cake. Use fresh flour for the best texture.
Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor.
Baking Powder: Essential for helping your cake rise and achieve that fluffy texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a moist cake.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding richness to the cake.
Cherry Pie Filling: Use store-bought or homemade; it adds luscious fruitiness throughout the cake.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make chocolate cherry cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round baking pans with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sugar until well combined—your future self will thank you!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about three minutes of vigorous mixing.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in those eggs one by one—mixing thoroughly after each addition—and stir in vanilla extract until everything is smooth like your favorite jazz playlist.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; we want that tender crumb! Fold in the cherry pie filling gently so you don’t break up too many cherries.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean after poking through (bonus points if you get it out with minimal crumbs!).

Transfer to plates and serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy your luscious slice of chocolate cherry heaven!

You Must Know

This delightful chocolate cherry cake combines rich chocolate and juicy cherries, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to whip up, ensuring that your dessert game is always on point.
Perfect for celebrating or just indulging yourself!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the wet and dry ingredients separately. Then combine them, fold in the cherries, and pour the batter into a greased pan. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean for the perfect chocolate cherry cake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap fresh cherries for frozen ones, or add nuts for crunch. A splash of almond extract can elevate the flavor, while a sprinkle of sea salt on top balances sweetness beautifully. Customize this cake to fit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover chocolate cherry cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best chocolate cherry cake, remember to use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Always measure flour correctly to avoid a dense cake.
Lastly, let the cake cool completely before frosting for the best results.

Sharing my first experience baking this chocolate cherry cake reminds me of my friend’s birthday party. Everyone raved about how moist it was—until one brave soul asked if I’d hidden a secret ingredient! Ah, just love and lots of cherries!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for chocolate cherry cake?

To make a delicious chocolate cherry cake, gather the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and fresh or canned cherries. For the frosting, you will need butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and cherry juice or syrup. Ensure you have quality dark chocolate for an extra rich flavor. These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

How long does it take to bake chocolate cherry cake?

The baking time for chocolate cherry cake typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Start checking the cake around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling process helps maintain moisture and enhances the overall texture of your chocolate cherry cake.

Can I use frozen cherries in my chocolate cherry cake?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries in your chocolate cherry cake! Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the batter from becoming too wet. Using frozen cherries may slightly alter the texture but will still provide that delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Additionally, this option allows you to enjoy this decadent dessert year-round without having to wait for fresh cherries to be in season.

How can I store leftover chocolate cherry cake?

To keep your leftover chocolate cherry cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy this decadent treat later without sacrificing quality or taste.

Conclusion for chocolate cherry cake :

In conclusion, making a chocolate cherry cake is both rewarding and straightforward with the right ingredients and techniques. This rich dessert combines the deep flavors of cocoa with sweet cherries for an unforgettable treat. Remember to bake at the correct temperature and check doneness with a toothpick. Whether served at celebrations or enjoyed as an indulgent snack, this delightful cake will impress your family and friends alike. Explore variations with different frostings or add-ins to customize your unique creation!