Chocolate Cherry Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Chocolate Cherry Cake for its perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and bright cherry sweetness. The cherry pie filling adds moisture and a delightful tartness that complements the rich cake beautifully. The addition of chocolate chips gives every bite an extra burst of melty chocolate. This recipe is simple to prepare using a cake mix and pantry staples but delivers impressive homemade taste and texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (15.25 ounce) package chocolate cake mix
• 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup white sugar
• 5 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup milk
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, eggs, sugar, melted butter, and milk. Beat on medium speed until smooth and well blended.
3. Add cherry pie filling: Gently fold in the cherry pie filling, distributing it evenly through the batter.
4. Add chocolate chips: Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
6. Cool and serve: Allow cake to cool before serving. Optional: top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12-15 servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling for a fresher taste.
• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor depth.
• Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or cherry glaze.
• Substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate chips.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch.

Storage/reheating

• Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave to warm.
• This cake can be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a cake mix?

Yes, a homemade chocolate cake recipe can be used, but the cake mix simplifies preparation.

Can I use other pie fillings?

Yes, cherry filling is classic, but blueberry or raspberry fillings also work well.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and use the recommended baking time and temperature.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, bake the batter in lined muffin tins for about 20-25 minutes.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure pie filling is gluten-free.

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes, though the chocolate chips add extra texture and richness.

How do I store leftover cake?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Yes, cream cheese frosting or whipped cream pairs nicely.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Absolutely; the sweet cherries and chocolate make it a favorite for all ages.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, low-fat milk works fine but may slightly affect richness.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Cake is a delightful dessert that marries the richness of chocolate with the bright sweetness of cherries in a moist, tender cake. Easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this cake is perfect for any occasion that calls for a comforting, flavorful treat. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with your favorite garnish, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

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