A sudden craving for dessert can strike at any time, especially when cherries are in season. That’s when I whip up my Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake, a delightful blend of rich chocolate and the natural sweetness of real cherries. This cake features layers that are not just moist but downright airy, making it the star of any gathering. Plus, it’s topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting that’s swirled with homemade cherry jam, adding an elegant touch that’s perfect for summer celebrations or special occasions. With its relatively simple preparation and the option to transform it into cupcakes or a sheet cake, this Chocolate Cherry Cake is sure to impress and satisfy anyone tired of fast food desserts. Could there be a more delightful ending to a meal?
Why is this cake a must-try?
Irresistible Texture: The soft and moist layers boast a rich chocolate flavor perfectly balanced by the tartness of real cherries.
Versatile Options: Easily transform it into cupcakes or a sheet cake to suit any gathering or occasion.
Simple Yet Elegant: With a straightforward prep and assembly, this cake elevates your dessert game without unnecessary stress.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for summer celebrations, this cake will have friends and family raving—just like my delicious Sugar Free Cheesecake does!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the cherry jam and frosting a day in advance for seamless baking and assembly.
Indulge without hassle, and share the joy of this Chocolate Cherry Cake at your next gathering!
Chocolate Cherry Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure. Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend may work, but results may vary.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds chocolate flavor. No substitutions needed; ensure it’s unsweetened.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents for cake rise. Be mindful of expiration dates for effectiveness.
• Salt – Enhances flavor. Do not omit, as it balances sweetness.
• Neutral Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Keeps cake moist. Substitution: Melted coconut oil or butter can be used.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake. Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
• Large Eggs (Room Temperature) – Adds moisture, richness, and structure. Tip: Let eggs sit out for 30 minutes before use.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides flavor depth. Freshly sourced vanilla is preferable.
• Milk (Room Temperature) – Adds moisture and tenderness. Substitution: Almond or oat milk for dairy-free options.
• Pitted Cherries (Fresh or Frozen) – Adds fruit flavor. Substitution: Jarred sour cherries can provide tartness; drain well to avoid excess moisture.
For the Cherry Jam
• Granulated Sugar (for Cherry Jam) – Sweetens the jam. Adjust based on tartness of cherries.
• Lemon Juice – Balances sweetness and adds acidity. Can use lime juice if lemon is unavailable.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese (Cold) – Main ingredient for frosting. Cold cream cheese helps maintain thickness.
• Unsalted Butter (Room Temperature) – Adds richness to frosting. Do not substitute salted butter if maintaining flavor control.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes frosting. Sift before measuring for a smooth texture.
• Pinch of Salt – Enhances sweetness in frosting. Essential for balance.
• Cooled Cherry Jam – Flavor enhancer in frosting. Incorporate carefully to maintain texture.
• Cornstarch or Milk Powder – Optional stabilizers for frosting. Useful if frosting is too soft.
Prepare yourself for baking bliss with these Chocolate Cherry Cake ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or oil and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This will ensure your Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake releases easily after baking, maintaining its beautiful shape for presentation.
Step 2: Mix the 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 evenly distributed flavors in your chocolate cake. Set this aside as the dry mixture is key to achieving the perfect texture for our rich dessert.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the neutral oil and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Next, add the room temperature eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract. The blend of these wet ingredients contributes to the moisture and richness of the Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; aim for a smooth batter with no dry spots. If you’re adding chocolate chips, now’s the time to fold them in for extra indulgence in your cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. 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 as they bake, and once done, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Cherry Jam
While your cakes are cooling, make the cherry jam by combining pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook these ingredients together for about 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely—it will elevate the cake’s flavor beautifully.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
On the day you plan to assemble your cake, start by beating room temperature butter in a bowl until fluffy. Add cold cream cheese and continue mixing until smooth, then gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. For an elegant touch, fold in the cooled cherry jam gently, ensuring not to overmix.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Level off the tops of your cooled cake layers with a serrated knife for even stacking. Place one layer on a serving plate and frost the top generously with the cream cheese frosting. If you wish, spread a layer of cherry jam before placing the second cake on top. Crumb coat the entire cake, chill it briefly, and then frost fully to create a stunning Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake that will delight everyone at your gathering.
Chocolate Cherry Cake Variations
Feel free to customize your cake experience with these fun twists that can spark joy in every bite!
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Cupcake Version: Transform the cake into cupcakes by reducing the bake time to 18–22 minutes. Ideal for a fun twist at parties!
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Sheet Cake: Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for a delightful sheet cake instead, adjusting the bake time to 35–40 minutes for easy serving.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs, but be prepared for some texture changes. Testing is key here!
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap out milk for almond or oat milk, and replace butter with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free treat everyone can enjoy.
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Rich Flavor Swap: Try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper caramel note in the cake. The flavors elevate with this simple swap!
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Extra Cherries: Add more pitted cherries into the batter for extra fruity bites throughout the cake, offering an unexpected burst of flavor in every slice.
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Zesty Addition: A teaspoon of orange zest in the batter can complement the chocolate and cherries beautifully. It adds a refreshing twist you won’t want to miss!
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Spiced Cake: Introduce a hint of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that enhances the chocolate and cherry profile.
Can’t get enough of the sweet combinations? Pair your Chocolate Cherry Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or try that delicious Iced Cherry Earl to explore even more flavor harmony!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Cake
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Avoid Overmixing: Ensure you don’t overmix the batter to keep your cake light and airy. This is a common mistake that can lead to a dense texture.
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Cool the Jam: Always allow your cherry jam to cool completely before mixing it into the frosting to prevent it from becoming runny.
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Chill Your Frosting: If your frosting turns out too soft, refrigerate it for a bit or consider adding cornstarch or milk powder for a firmer consistency during assembly.
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Level Your Layers: Take the time to level your cake layers with a serrated knife for a professional-looking finish. This ensures stability while frosting your Chocolate Cherry Cake.
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Taste and Adjust: When making the cherry jam, adjust the sugar based on the tartness of your cherries. This can make a significant impact on the overall flavor of your cake.
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Plan Ahead: Prepare your cherry jam and frosting a day in advance to streamline the baking process, making it easier to enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Cake
Fridge: Store the frosted Chocolate Cherry Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezer: If you have unfrosted cake layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy slices warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out the cake.
Layer Storage: For optimal freshness, store any leftover frosting in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days, and use it for other treats or as an accompaniment for dessert!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can make the cherry jam and cream cheese frosting up to 3 days ahead. Just remember to refrigerate the jam in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavor. The frosting should also be stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cake, which can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours after frosting to enhance the flavors. When it’s time to enjoy, simply assemble the cake by frosting the layers and serve—allowing you to delight guests with a stunning dessert that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Delight your senses as you plan the perfect spread to accompany this irresistible dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing; the creamy, cool ice cream balances the richness of the cake beautifully.
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Fresh Cherries: Juicy, in-season cherries add a burst of freshness and echo the cake’s flavors while making a lovely garnish.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping complements the moist layers and enhances the cake’s indulgent experience.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling rich chocolate ganache over the cake adds an extra layer of decadence that any chocolate lover will adore.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate notes, creating a cozy pairing perfect for any gathering.
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Cherry Almond Smoothie: This fresh and fruity smoothie is a delightful contrast against the cake’s rich layers, making for a refreshing sip.
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Mint Tea: Light herbal mint tea can cleanse the palate and soothe after enjoying a slice of the moist cake, making it a perfect finish.
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Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of homemade biscotti provides a satisfying contrast and serves as a delightful side for dipping.
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Berry Compote: Serve a tart berry compote on the side to add tartness that balances out the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh pitted cherries when they are in season. However, you can also use frozen cherries, which work well too. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid if you use jarred sour cherries to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
How do I store the Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Store your frosted Chocolate Cherry Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and moist. If you have any unfrosted cake layers, they can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the Chocolate Cherry Cake?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the unfrosted layers of the Chocolate Cherry Cake! Just wrap each layer securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. To enjoy later, thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting, ensuring they remain moist and delicious.
What should I do if my frosting is too soft?
If your frosting turns out too soft, don’t worry! You can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Alternatively, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch or milk powder to stabilize the frosting. Just be careful not to overmix, as this can make it runny.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! Keep in mind that this cake contains ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which are not safe for pets. If you need to accommodate allergies, make sure to use gluten-free flour and check your other ingredients for potential allergens, such as dairy.
How can I use leftovers effectively?
If you have leftover frosting, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Use it on cookies, as a topping for ice cream, or even for a later batch of cupcakes. The more the merrier when it comes to enjoying your baking!
Irresistibly Moist Chocolate Cherry Cake for Any Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the neutral oil and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, stirring gently until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
- While the cakes cool, make the cherry jam by combining pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- For the frosting, beat room temperature butter until fluffy, then add cream cheese and mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Gently fold in the cooled cherry jam.
- Level the tops of your cooled cake layers, place one layer on a serving plate, frost the top, then add another layer and crumb coat the entire cake before chilling and fully frosting.