The Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe is a rich, moist dessert that brings together the deep flavor of chocolate and the sweet tang of cherries in one indulgent bite.
This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe was created out of a passion for baking and a love for discovering comforting, nostalgic treats that bring people together.
The purpose of this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe is to deliver joy through flavor and to offer a simple way for home bakers to make something truly special.
This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe has roots in American home kitchens, especially popularized in the mid-20th century when canned pie fillings became household staples.
Now presenting step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, tips, health benefits, extra delicious variations, preservation methods, and answers to common questions.
Secrets To Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
The secret to a perfect Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe lies in using high-quality ingredients and balancing moisture. Always use real butter for richness and cherry pie filling for natural sweetness and texture.
Do not overmix the batter gentle folding keeps it soft. Add chocolate chips for extra depth, and make the frosting while the cake cools to lock in freshness.
Let the cake rest before serving; it enhances flavor. Bake just until done to avoid dryness. Room temperature ingredients blend better and ensure an even rise. These small steps create a moist, rich, and flavorful cake every time.

How To Prepare Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium saucepan
- Hand mixer or whisk
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 (15.25 oz) box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 3 large eggs
- â…“ cup milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
For the Frosting:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- â…“ cup milk
How To Make Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Step 1: Get the Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and either lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper so the cake won’t stick.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
Grab a large mixing bowl. Add in the chocolate cake mix, white sugar, and melted butter. Crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, and add the cherry pie filling. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and you have a thick, smooth batter. Once that’s done, fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake It
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Let It Cool
Take the cake out of the oven and let it sit in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. It should still be a little warm, but not hot, before you frost it.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
While the cake cools, put a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add the butter, sugar, and milk. Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer. Once it begins to bubble, turn the heat down and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often.
Step 6: Melt in the Chocolate
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the chocolate chips right away. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and the frosting is smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Pour the warm frosting over the mostly cooled cake. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the top. Let it sit at room temperature until the frosting firms up. Once it’s set, slice and serve.
Baker’s Note: For an extra indulgent touch, top with whipped cream or a few fresh cherries before serving. You can also add a splash of almond extract to the batter for more flavor depth.
Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 380 |
Total Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 9g |
Cholesterol | 55mg |
Sodium | 260mg |
Carbohydrates | 53g |
Sugars | 38g |
Protein | 4g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe because each bite offers the rich depth of chocolate and the juicy sweetness of cherries in a soft, tender crumb.
The combination of a classic cake mix and cherry pie filling creates a moist texture that stays fresh for days. The warm chocolate frosting adds a smooth, glossy finish that melts into the cake.
No need for fancy techniques or equipment, just honest, satisfying baking. This cake brings comfort, flavor, and a little bit of nostalgia, making it a favorite for both new and experienced bakers.
Why My Recipe Works
This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe works because each ingredient is chosen for balance, flavor, and texture. The boxed chocolate cake mix provides a reliable base, while added sugar, butter, and eggs give it a homemade richness.
Cherry pie filling brings moisture and natural sweetness without needing extra effort. The chocolate chips melt into the batter, creating pockets of smooth chocolate that enhance every bite.
The simple stovetop frosting pours easily over the warm cake, locking in softness and adding a glossy finish. Every step is designed to be straightforward while delivering consistent, bakery-style results from a home kitchen.
Amazing Serving Ideas
This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe tastes great served warm or at room temperature. Add a spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to balance the richness.
Fresh cherries or chopped toasted almonds sprinkled on top bring extra texture and flavor. For a bit of contrast, drizzle a little caramel sauce over each slice.
Enjoy it alongside a cup of black coffee or a cold glass of milk to round out the experience. Simple touches like these make every bite even more enjoyable.
Health Benefits
This Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe offers some nutritional perks despite being a dessert. Cherries provide antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C, which support the immune system and may help reduce inflammation.
Dark chocolate chips contribute small amounts of minerals such as iron and magnesium. Using real butter adds healthy fats that can support brain function in moderation.
While this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe is an indulgence, enjoying it in reasonable portions can satisfy sweet cravings without feeling overly heavy. Sharing it also encourages connection and joy, which are important for overall well-being.
Expert Tips And Tricks
1. Always bring eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing to ensure the batter blends evenly and bakes up tender.
2. Fold the cherry pie filling in gently to keep the cherry pieces whole and distribute them evenly throughout the cake.
3. For a deeper cherry flavor, add a teaspoon of cherry extract or a splash of brandy to the batter.
Watch the cake closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.
4. Stir the frosting constantly while heating and remove it from the heat as soon as the chocolate melts to keep it smooth.
5. Frost the cake when it’s warm but not hot, so the frosting spreads nicely without melting away.
Best Variations
➢ Cherry Almond Cake: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for a nutty, fragrant upgrade.
➢ Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Cake: Layer a simple cream cheese mixture between two layers of the cake for a creamy, tangy surprise inside.
➢ Black Forest Style: Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the batter and top the finished cake with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a classic Black Forest feel.
➢ Mocha Cherry Cake: Mix a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the batter to bring out a rich mocha flavor alongside the chocolate and cherries.
➢ Cherry Chocolate Bundt Cake: Bake the cake in a bundt pan for a beautiful shape, then drizzle a chocolate glaze on top instead of the traditional frosting.
How Do I Store This Cake?
Store the Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it moist. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days.
Before serving, let it come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If freezing, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
FAQs About Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Can I use homemade cherry filling instead of canned?
Yes, homemade cherry filling works great and adds a fresh touch. Just make sure it’s thick enough so the batter doesn’t become too runny.
Can I substitute the chocolate cake mix with a homemade cake batter?
Absolutely. Use your favorite chocolate cake recipe, but adjust sugar and liquids slightly to balance the added cherry filling.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Avoid overbaking by checking the cake a few minutes before the timer ends. Also, frosting the cake while it’s still slightly warm helps seal in moisture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature or refrigerated. Frost it just before serving for the freshest taste.
Is there a dairy-free version of this cake?
You can use dairy-free butter alternatives, plant-based milk, and dairy-free chocolate chips to make a similar cake suitable for dairy-free diets.
Conclusion
This easy process made baking the Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish. The steps were clear, and the results turned out delicious, making it a success in my kitchen.
I’m excited to share this Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe with others who love homemade desserts and hope it brings the same joy to you as it did to me.
Give it a try, enjoy every bite, and know that you can create something wonderful with simple ingredients and easy steps.
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Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium saucepan
- Hand mixer or whisk
- 9Ă—13 inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 15.25 oz box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 21 oz can cherry pie filling
- 3 large eggs
- â…“ cup milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
For the Frosting:
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- â…“ cup milk
Instructions
Step 1: Get the Oven Ready
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and either lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper so the cake won’t stick.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Grab a large mixing bowl. Add in the chocolate cake mix, white sugar, and melted butter. Crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, and add the cherry pie filling. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and you have a thick, smooth batter. Once that’s done, fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake It
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Let It Cool
- Take the cake out of the oven and let it sit in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. It should still be a little warm, but not hot, before you frost it.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
- While the cake cools, put a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add the butter, sugar, and milk. Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer. Once it begins to bubble, turn the heat down and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often.
Step 6: Melt in the Chocolate
- Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the chocolate chips right away. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and the frosting is smooth and glossy.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
- Pour the warm frosting over the mostly cooled cake. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the top. Let it sit at room temperature until the frosting firms up. Once it’s set, slice and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 380 |
Total Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 9g |
Cholesterol | 55mg |
Sodium | 260mg |
Carbohydrates | 53g |
Sugars | 38g |
Protein | 4g |

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.