Name: Chocolate Cherry Cake: A Decadent Layered Delight for Summer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Use unsweetened to control sweetness); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Do not substitute); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Do not substitute); 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 cup Neutral Oil (Canola or Vegetable) (Melted butter can be used for richer taste); 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for added depth); 3 Large Eggs (Using room temperature yields better volume); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results); 1 cup Milk (Should be at room temperature); 1 cup Chocolate Chips or Chopped Dark Chocolate (Optional) (Enhances chocolate flavor); 2 cups Pitted Cherries (Fresh or Frozen) (Ensure they are well-drained); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Keep cold for proper consistency); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (At room temperature for blending); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Sift to prevent lumps); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (in Frosting); 1 pinch Salt (Balances sweetness); 1/2 cup Cooled Cherry Jam (Choose natural jam without added sugars); 1 tbsp Cornstarch or Milk Powder (Optional) (Use for frosting stability)

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The aroma of chocolate mingling with cherries wafting through the kitchen is a memory I cherish every summer. When the fresh cherries are in season, it’s the perfect opportunity to whip up my Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake. This dessert brings both moisture and richness, layering the goodness of real cherries between light and fluffy chocolate cake, all topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Not only is this cake surprisingly simple to make—requiring just one bowl—it’s also make-ahead friendly, allowing you to delight your guests without the last-minute rush. Perfect for any summer celebration, this cake is where elegance meets homey comfort. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game?

Why is Chocolate Cherry Cake a Must-Try?

Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate and tart cherries blend seamlessly, creating a dessert that dances on your palate.

One-Bowl Convenience: This recipe requires minimal cleanup—mix it all in one bowl, making it a perfect choice after a long day.

Versatile Options: Bake it as a stunning layer cake, or transform it into delightful cupcakes for your next gathering!

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the cherry jam and frosting a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festivities stress-free.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a summer BBQ or a birthday party, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike, reminiscent of flavors found in my Strawberry Cake Refreshingly.

Get ready to impress with this elegant yet straightforward dessert!

Chocolate Cherry Cake Ingredients

• Note: Here’s everything you’ll need for a heavenly Chocolate Cherry Cake, ready to tempt your taste buds!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; make sure it’s unsweetened to control the cake’s sweetness.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise; be cautious not to substitute one for the other.
Salt – Enhances the flavors; it’s essential for balance in sweetness.
Neutral Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Keeps the cake moist; melted butter can be used for a richer taste.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake beautifully; brown sugar can add depth but may alter the texture.
Large Eggs – Provide moisture and binding; using room temperature eggs yields better volume.
Vanilla Extract – Adds complexity to flavors; use pure vanilla for the best results.
Milk – Adds moisture; it should be at room temperature for thorough mixing.
Chocolate Chips or Chopped Dark Chocolate (Optional) – Enhances the chocolate flavor; feel free to omit if desired.
Pitted Cherries (Fresh or Frozen) – The star flavor component; ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture to the frosting; keep it cold for proper consistency.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift it to prevent lumps.
Vanilla Extract (in Frosting) – Enhances flavor.
Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
Cooled Cherry Jam – Infuses flavor in the frosting; choose a natural jam without added sugars for best results.
Optional Cornstarch or Milk Powder (for Frosting Stability) – Increases frosting stability in warm conditions; use as needed.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to crafting the perfect Chocolate Cherry Cake that delights both the eye and the palate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cherry Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Jam
Start by making the cherry jam a day in advance. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook the mixture while stirring occasionally until it thickens, about 15-20 minutes. Once it reaches a syrupy consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely before transferring to the refrigerator.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
The day before or on the same day, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually blend in cold cream cheese until smooth, then add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the cooled cherry jam, ensuring it’s well combined. Refrigerate the frosting to firm up slightly.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Pans
On the day of baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure you have your mixing bowls, an electric mixer, and a spatula ready for the cake batter mixing.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring an even distribution of leavening agents, which helps the cake rise beautifully to form the scrumptious layers in your Chocolate Cherry Cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the neutral oil and granulated sugar together until they form a cohesive mixture. Add the large eggs one at a time, ensuring they are incorporated fully. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and milk, blending until smooth. This rich, sweet mixture will be the foundation of your moist cake.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, while mixing gently to avoid overmixing. Fold in any optional chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for an extra chocolatey delight. Aim for a smooth batter that is well-combined but still airy, as this ensures a tender crumb in your Chocolate Cherry Cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking, which could dry out your delicious layers.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cakes out onto wire racks to cool completely. This is essential to set the moistness of the cakes and prevent sogginess from the residual heat.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake
When the cakes have cooled, level the tops with a serrated knife if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous portion of frosting on top, followed by a layer of optional cherry jam. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting and jam process, applying a thin crumb coat around the sides of the cake to lock in any loose crumbs.

Step 10: Final Frosting and Decoration
Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set the crumb coat. Afterward, spread the remaining cream cheese frosting over the entire cake, smoothing it out with a spatula for a polished finish. Feel free to decorate with additional fresh cherries or chocolate shavings, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake components are ideal for those busy home cooks who want to simplify their dessert prep! You can make the cherry jam and cream cheese frosting up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save time on the day of assembly. Simply prepare the jam as directed and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the frosting, mix the ingredients and keep it chilled until you are ready to frost the cake. On baking day, whip up the cake batter fresh and bake. This way, you ensure the cake remains moist and delicious while benefiting from having the time-consuming aspects handled ahead of time. Just layer, frost, and relish in the impressive presentation!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and volume, yielding a lighter cake.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid for our fluffy Chocolate Cherry Cake.
Cherry Prep: Thoroughly drain and pat the cherries dry to prevent excess moisture from ruining the cake’s texture and stability.
Strain the Jam: If you prefer a smoother frosting, consider straining the cherry jam before folding it into the cream cheese mixture; this reduces lumps and enhances creaminess.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush cooling the cakes. Allow them to cool completely to maintain their shape and avoid sogginess when frosting.
Decoration Options: Get creative! Use candied cherries or chocolate curls for decoration, elevating the presentation and flavor of your Chocolate Cherry Cake.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Cake

Fridge: Store the frosted chocolate cherry cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it moist and fresh, ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving.

Reheating: For the best flavors, serve at room temperature. If you desire a warm slice, microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat and dry it out!

Layering Tip: If freezing individual layers, consider placing parchment paper between them to prevent sticking, allowing for easy assembly when you’re ready to indulge in the chocolate cherry cake.

Chocolate Cherry Cake Variations

Feel free to play around with this chocolate cherry cake recipe, allowing your creativity to shine through each delightful bite!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a deliciously tender cake.
Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft chocolate and fruitiness.
Fruity Swirl: Replace some of the fresh cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a twist of flavor. The tartness of the berries adds a wonderful contrast.
Rich Brown Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar to deepen the flavor with caramel notes. It enhances the overall richness of the cake.
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and a plant-based cream cheese for a plant-friendly version without losing moisture. Every slice remains wonderfully satisfying!
Chocolate Burst: Increase the chocolate flavor by adding cocoa powder to the frosting or doubling the amount of chocolate chips. Dessert lovers will rejoice!
Mini Cupcakes: Transform the cake batter into cupcakes for a fun and portable treat. Just reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of espresso to the batter for an unexpected spice that enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.

With these variations, you can tailor your cake to suit any occasion or preference. For an additional treat, consider the joyous flavors of Healthy Chocolate Banana or indulge in the layered delight of Moist Strawberry Shortcake!

What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake

A decadent chocolate cherry cake deserves delightful companions to create a truly memorable dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate layers, providing a cool, refreshing balance.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping allows the cake’s flavors to shine while adding a luscious texture.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of strawberries, oranges, and blueberries brightens the plate, adding vibrant colors and refreshing flavors.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling this silky chocolate sauce over each slice enhances the chocolate flavor and elevates the indulgence factor.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup brings out the cake’s deep chocolate notes; the slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with its sweetness.
Red Wine: A fruity pinot noir or merlot creates a beautiful olive flavor interplay, enhancing the cake’s flavors with a luxurious touch.
Berry Compote: A tangy cherry or mixed berry compote provides a fresh and tart element that cuts through the richness of the cake.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: The zesty citrus notes brighten up the rich flavors and refresh the palate after each delicious bite.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie and tangy goat cheese offers a sophisticated charcuterie touch, perfectly complementing the cake’s sweetness.

Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe FAQs

What types of cherries are best for this cake?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe cherries are ideal as they provide the best flavor and moisture to the cake. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can use frozen cherries, but ensure they are well-drained and patted dry before incorporating them into the batter to prevent excess moisture.

How should I store leftover cake?
For sure! Store any leftover frosted Chocolate Cherry Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This helps keep it moist and delicious. Just make sure to slice it with a clean knife to avoid any mess!

Can I freeze the Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Yes, you can! If you want to freeze the cake, wrap the unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, saving them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before adding frosting.

What should I do if my cake turns out too dense?
The more the merrier! If your cake comes out dense, it might be due to overmixing or using cold ingredients. Make sure to use room temperature eggs, milk, and butter, and mix gently until just combined. Also, check that you’re measuring your flour correctly—too much flour can lead to a heavy cake.

Is this cake suitable for those with allergens?
Very! This Chocolate Cherry Cake contains common allergens like eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with egg or dairy allergies. Consider using a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting to adapt it for a vegan option. Always double-check the packaging of ingredients for any potential allergens.