Chocolate Cherry Cake: 1 Easy Decadent Recipe

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Chocolate Cherry Cake has always been my ultimate comfort dessert, ever since I was little. I remember my mom pulling this rich chocolate cherry cake from the oven, the aroma of dark chocolate and sweet cherries filling our whole house. It’s a truly decadent chocolate cherry cake that feels special enough for birthdays but is surprisingly easy to make. This homemade chocolate cherry cake is my go-to for a reason – it combines moist, tender cake layers with a burst of cherry goodness and a dreamy frosting. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cake

This chocolate cherry cake recipe is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

The taste is simply divine – a perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet, tangy cherries.
It’s incredibly easy to make, with most of the prep done in just one bowl.
You get a moist chocolate cherry cake that melts in your mouth.
It’s a budget-friendly way to create a stunning dessert.
It’s a family-friendly treat that everyone, from kids to adults, will adore.
This homemade chocolate cherry cake looks impressive enough for any special occasion.
The cream cheese frosting with cherry jam swirl adds a delightful tang.
It’s a truly decadent chocolate cherry cake experience without the fuss.

Ingredients for This Homemade Chocolate Cherry Cake

Gather these essentials for a truly delicious homemade chocolate cherry cake. The combination of ingredients ensures a moist texture and rich flavor that makes this recipe so special.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our cake structure.
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for that deep chocolate flavor.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – helps the cake rise beautifully.
½ teaspoon baking soda – works with the cocoa for lift.
½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
½ cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable) – keeps our moist chocolate cherry cake tender.
1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture.
2 large eggs – at room temperature for better incorporation.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth.
¾ cup milk – the liquid that brings everything together.
½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional) – for extra bursts of chocolatey goodness.
1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) – the star of our cherry filling.
¼ cup granulated sugar (for jam) – to sweeten the cherry jam.
2 teaspoons lemon juice (for jam) – brightens the cherry flavor.
2 cups cold full-fat cream cheese – the base for our tangy frosting.
½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – for a smooth, spreadable frosting.
2 to 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted) – to sweeten and thicken the frosting.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) – enhances the frosting’s flavor.
Pinch of salt (for frosting) – balances the sweetness.
2–3 tablespoons cooled cherry jam (from above) – for swirling into the frosting.
½ lemon juiced (optional, for stability) – can help stabilize the frosting.

How to Make the Best Chocolate Cherry Cake

Making this chocolate cherry cake recipe is an absolute joy, and the process is surprisingly straightforward, especially with the one-bowl method for the cake itself. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a decadent dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This prep ensures your cakes won’t stick and will release beautifully.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mix forms the base of our rich chocolate cake.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the ½ cup neutral oil and 1 cup granulated sugar until well combined. Then, add the 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the ¾ cup milk in two parts. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is just smooth; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Gently fold in the ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate if you’re using them. This adds delightful pockets of melted chocolate throughout your cake.
Step 6: Divide the cake batter evenly between your prepared pans. You’ll notice the batter has a wonderfully rich, chocolatey aroma.
Step 7: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out with moist crumbs attached. That’s your cue for a perfectly moist chocolate cherry cake!
Step 8: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10–15 minutes before carefully inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key for easy frosting later.

Making the Cherry Jam

To create the luscious cherry filling, combine 1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen), ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons lemon juice in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, mashing some of the cherries as you go. This jam adds a wonderful tartness and vibrant color. For more baking tips, check out our recipes section.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

For the decadent cream cheese frosting, beat ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) until it’s light and fluffy. Add 2 cups cold full-fat cream cheese and beat until smooth. Gradually mix in 2 to 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until thick and fluffy. Gently swirl in 2–3 tablespoons of cooled cherry jam for a beautiful marbled effect.

Assembling Your Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake

Once your cake layers are completely cool, level them if necessary for an even surface. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting over the first cake layer, then add a bit more of the cherry jam if you like. Top with the second cake layer. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting all over, chill for about 15-20 minutes, then apply the final, beautiful layer of frosting. Learn more about our baking philosophy.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Cherry Cake

Achieving that perfect bakery-quality chocolate cherry cake at home is totally doable with a few insider tricks. I’ve found these tips make all the difference in creating a truly memorable dessert experience.

Always use good quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for the richest flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients; this keeps the cake tender.
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at the correct temperature for the frosting – not too cold, not too warm.
Chill the cake briefly after the crumb coat; it makes applying the final frosting layer so much smoother.

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Cherry Cake?

The real secret to a perfect chocolate cherry cake lies in the moisture and flavor balance. Using oil instead of butter in the cake batter contributes to a wonderfully moist crumb, and the homemade cherry jam adds a bright, tart contrast to the rich chocolate. For more details on ingredient science, you can explore resources on cake baking science.

Can I make this Chocolate Cherry Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. The cherry jam and cream cheese frosting can also be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble closer to serving time for the freshest taste. Visit our contact page if you have questions.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Cherry Cake?

A common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a tough cake. Also, be sure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting, or the frosting will melt. Finally, don’t skip the chilling step after the crumb coat; it’s crucial for a smooth finish. For more baking advice, see our about page.

Best Ways to Serve This Decadent Chocolate Cherry Cake

This decadent chocolate cherry cake is a showstopper on its own, but I love serving it with a few simple additions to elevate the experience. For a truly special dessert, consider a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a slice. The cool creaminess perfectly complements the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors of this homemade chocolate cherry cake.

Another fantastic way to serve it is with a simple berry coulis or a sprinkle of fresh cherries for an extra pop of color and flavor. It’s also wonderful with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of port wine, which enhances the deep chocolate notes beautifully. If you’re interested in other dessert recipes, explore our homepage.

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Cherry Cake

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delightful chocolate cherry cake. It’s a good idea to remember these are approximate values, as ingredient variations can slightly alter the final counts.

Calories: Approximately 450-550 (this can vary widely based on frosting and jam amounts)
Fat: 25-35g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Protein: 5-7g
Carbohydrates: 60-70g
Fiber: 3-5g
Sugar: 45-55g
Sodium: 200-300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Cherry Cake

Proper storage is key to keeping this delicious chocolate cherry cake fresh and flavorful. Once your cake has completely cooled on a wire rack – this is super important, don’t rush it! – you can store it. For short-term storage, place the frosted cake in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This method is perfect if you’re planning to enjoy slices throughout the week.

If you want to keep this easy chocolate cherry cake for longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. You can freeze the whole frosted cake this way too, just ensure it’s very well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It should stay delicious for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frosted slices overnight in the refrigerator. If you want a fresh-from-the-oven feel, you can gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cherry Cake

What makes this chocolate cherry cake recipe so moist?

The secret to the amazing moisture in this chocolate cherry cake recipe is the use of neutral oil in the batter instead of butter. Oil is liquid at room temperature, which helps keep the cake tender and moist for longer. Plus, the combination of cocoa powder and milk contributes to a wonderfully soft crumb in this homemade chocolate cherry cake.

Can I use different types of cherries for this cake?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pitted cherries, you can use fresh or frozen. If you prefer a tarter flavor, jarred sour cherries work wonderfully for the jam component. Just be sure to drain them well if they are packed in syrup. This flexibility makes it a truly versatile easy chocolate cherry cake.

How do I get the cherry jam swirl in the frosting?

To achieve that gorgeous swirl in your cream cheese frosting, make sure both the jam and the frosting are cooled and chilled appropriately. Once your frosting is mostly mixed, gently dollop 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled cherry jam on top. Then, using a knife or skewer, swirl the jam into the frosting just a few times. Don’t overmix, or you’ll lose the beautiful marbled effect of this decadent chocolate cherry cake.

Can this be made into a chocolate cherry bundt cake?

Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe for a chocolate cherry bundt cake! You’ll want to grease and flour your bundt pan very thoroughly. The baking time might need to be adjusted; start checking for doneness around 40-45 minutes, as bundt cakes can take a bit longer. A toothpick inserted into the thickest part should come out clean or with moist crumbs.

Variations of Chocolate Cherry Cake You Can Try

While this recipe delivers the ultimate chocolate cherry cake experience, don’t be afraid to get creative! I love playing with different flavor combinations and cooking methods to switch things up. Here are a few ideas for variations on this homemade chocolate cherry cake that are equally delicious.

Dietary Variation: For a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter along with the vanilla for a lovely cherry-almond flavor profile that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Bundt Cake Bliss: Transform this into a stunning chocolate cherry bundt cake. Grease and flour your bundt pan exceptionally well, and adjust baking time, checking for doneness around 40-45 minutes.
Spiced Cherry Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist on this classic chocolate cherry cake dessert.