Popular Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Chocolate cake with cherries is a rich, moist dessert made with deep cocoa flavor and bursts of sweet cherry throughout.

This delicious chocolate cake with cherries tastes indulgent, soft, and comforting, with a balance of fruit and chocolate that feels homemade and special.

I made this chocolate cake with cherries because it brings back memories of easy baking days and dependable results. I have baked this cake many times, especially when I need a crowd-pleasing dessert.

I slightly adjusted the extract amounts for more flavor. I will now show step by step how I prepare this chocolate cake with cherries.

About This Popular Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Chocolate cake with cherries is a delicious and popular dessert loved for its rich chocolate flavor and juicy bursts of cherry in every slice.

The soft, moist texture comes from the cherry filling blended into the batter, creating a cake that stays tender and flavorful.

This chocolate cake with cherries is often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and holiday tables because it looks inviting and tastes comforting.

The balance between deep cocoa and sweet cherries makes it appealing to chocolate lovers and fruit dessert fans alike, earning it a trusted place among classic homemade cakes.

Chocolate Cake With Cherries
Chocolate Cake With Cherries

How To Prepare Chocolate Cake With Cherries?

To make this chocolate cake with cherries perfectly, we’ll go step by step! I’ve detailed each part of the process and included tips for best results.

I’ve also listed helpful kitchen tools, though not all are necessary. Use what you have, and you’ll still enjoy a rich, moist, cherry-filled chocolate cake.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Course: Dessert

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Kitchen Utensils

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) devil’s food cake mix
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • ¼ cup canola oil

For the Frosting

  • ½ cup butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • â…“ cup milk
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • â…” cup cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Instructions

1. Start by getting everything ready. Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C) so it can preheat while you work. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.

2. Next, make the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, almond extract, and canola oil. Mix everything together until the batter looks smooth and evenly combined, with no dry spots left.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan. This step is important so the frosting doesn’t melt when you spread it on.

5. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and milk. Slowly add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy. Finish by stirring in the almond extract and vanilla bean paste.

6. When the cake has fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Allow the frosting to set, then cut the cake into slices and serve.

Note: For extra texture, you can gently chop some of the cherries in the pie filling before mixing them into the batter. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Cooking Method Explained Simply

The cooking method for chocolate cake with cherries is simple and easy to follow. First, the cake batter is prepared by mixing the devil’s food cake mix with eggs, oil, almond extract, and cherry pie filling until smooth.

The cherries in the batter release moisture as it bakes, keeping the cake soft and tender. The batter is poured into a greased pan and baked in a preheated oven until a toothpick comes out clean.

After cooling, a creamy cocoa frosting is spread over the cake, sealing in moisture and adding rich chocolate flavor.

Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Nutrition Amount
Calories420
Carbohydrates58 g
Protein5 g
Fat20 g
Saturated Fat9 g
Sugar42 g
Sodium380 mg

How It Works

Chocolate cake with cherries works by blending fruit and chocolate into one moist, flavorful dessert. The cherry pie filling adds natural sweetness and moisture, helping the cake stay soft after baking.

The chocolate cake mix provides structure and deep cocoa flavor, while eggs and oil bind the ingredients and create a tender crumb.

As the cake bakes, the cherries melt slightly into the batter, spreading flavor throughout. The cocoa frosting seals in moisture and adds richness, finishing the cake with a smooth, chocolaty layer.

Why Peoples Like Chocolate Cake With Cherries?

People like chocolate cake with cherries because it delivers a rich, indulgent chocolate flavor balanced by the natural sweetness and slight tartness of cherries.

The combination creates a moist, flavorful cake that feels luxurious without being heavy. The almond extract adds a subtle, unique note that enhances the overall taste. The frosting adds creamy, sweet chocolate that complements the fruit.

This cake also appeals visually, with cherries peeking through the chocolate, making it inviting and festive. It’s comforting, homemade feel makes it a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or simple desserts.

Decorate And Serving Ideas

To decorate chocolate cake with cherries, spread the cocoa-almond frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Arrange whole or halved cherries on top to add a pop of color and freshness.

Sprinkle chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or slivered almonds along the edges for a refined look. A light drizzle of cherry syrup over the frosting adds shine and enhances the fruity flavor.

You can also create a simple pattern with frosting swirls or pipe small rosettes to make the cake visually appealing while keeping it simple and inviting.

Professional Baking Tips

1. Use a kitchen scale whenever possible. Weighing ingredients gives more consistent results than using cups, especially for flour and sugar.

2. Bring eggs, butter, and milk to room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly and creates a lighter, fluffier cake.

3. Always preheat your oven fully before baking. Putting a cake in a cold oven can cause uneven rising and affect the texture.

4. Follow mixing instructions carefully. Over mixing can make cakes dense, while under mixing can leave pockets of flour. Aim for a smooth, even batter.

5. Use a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the cake to check if it’s done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

6. Let the cake cool completely in the pan or on a wire rack. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.

Best Variations Of Chocolate Cake With Cherries

➤ Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Cake – Add a layer of cherry cheesecake filling between two layers of chocolate cake for a creamy, tangy twist.

➤ Chocolate Cherry Almond Cake – Fold in toasted almond slivers into the batter and sprinkle almonds on top of the frosting for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

➤ Chocolate Cherry Ganache Cake – Pour a smooth dark chocolate ganache over the frosted cake and top with cherries for a richer, glossy finish.

➤ Black Forest Style Cake – Layer the chocolate cake with whipped cream and cherry filling in between, then decorate with chocolate shavings and cherries on top.

➤ Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes – Make individual cupcakes with cherry centers and top each with chocolate frosting and a cherry for a fun, portable version.

Cake Storage

Chocolate cake with cherries should be stored properly to maintain its moisture and flavor. Once frosted, keep the cake covered in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Store at room temperature for up to two days in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

The cake can also be frozen for up to two months; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs About Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Can I use fresh cherries?

Yes, fresh cherries work well when pitted and added to the batter or layered, but frozen or jarred sour cherries are also great choices that stay juicy during baking.

Why do cherries sometimes sink to the bottom?

Fruit pieces like cherries can sink in very loose batter; coating them lightly in flour before folding in can help them stay more evenly distributed.

Can I make the cake without alcohol?

Yes, traditional Black Forest uses cherry liqueur, but you can substitute cherry juice or simple syrup so the flavor still shines without alcohol.

How should I store leftover chocolate cherry cake?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature up to two days or in the fridge up to five days to maintain moisture. (General baking guidance)

Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cherries add chewy texture and a concentrated sweet‑tart flavor that pairs beautifully with rich chocolate.

Conclusion

This chocolate cake with cherries is a dessert everyone enjoys, full of rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavor. Every time I make this recipe, it brings smiles to the table and turns into a favorite for family and friends.

I have prepared it many times for gatherings and special moments, and each time I enjoy the process and the results. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and almond notes creates a comforting, delicious treat.

I hope you try making this recipe and experience the same joy and satisfaction.

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Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Sophia
Chocolate cake with cherries is a delicious and popular dessert loved for its rich chocolate flavor and juicy bursts of cherry in every slice.
The soft, moist texture comes from the cherry filling blended into the batter, creating a cake that stays tender and flavorful.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer (or whisk)
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 1 box 15.25 oz devil’s food cake mix
  • 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • ¼ cup canola oil

For the Frosting

  • ½ cup butter melted and slightly cooled
  • â…“ cup milk
  • 3 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • â…” cup cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Instructions
 

  • Start by getting everything ready. Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C) so it can preheat while you work. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
  • Next, make the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, add the cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, almond extract, and canola oil. Mix everything together until the batter looks smooth and evenly combined, with no dry spots left.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool completely in the pan. This step is important so the frosting doesn’t melt when you spread it on.
  • While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and milk. Slowly add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until the frosting becomes smooth and creamy. Finish by stirring in the almond extract and vanilla bean paste.
  • When the cake has fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Allow the frosting to set, then cut the cake into slices and serve.

Notes

Note: For extra texture, you can gently chop some of the cherries in the pie filling before mixing them into the batter. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Cake With Cherries

Calories: 420 | Carbohydrates: 58 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 20 g | Saturated Fat: 9 g | Sugar: 42 g | Sodium: 380 mg
Keyword Chocolate Cake With Cherries
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Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

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