Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫

If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your family and friends, look no further than this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you! The combination of rich chocolate cake and sweet, gooey cherry topping creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even the kids can help!

What makes this cake truly special is its stunning presentation. When you invert it onto a platter, the glossy cherries glisten like jewels atop the fluffy chocolate cake. It’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: This cake comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate and cherries! This cake is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Gooey Goodness: The cherry topping adds a luscious texture and sweetness that complements the rich chocolate perfectly.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with whipped cream or let it cool for an easy afternoon snack – it’s delicious either way!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and store it covered at room temperature for up to two days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

For the Cake

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best things about this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫 is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute the cherry pie filling with peach or blueberry filling for a fun twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to accommodate dietary needs.
• Top with Ice Cream: Serve each slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake comes out smoothly later. Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared pan; this will create a deliciously caramelized layer. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter, followed by spreading the cherry pie filling on top. This step is crucial as it forms the beautiful topping when you flip your cake!

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is smooth and combined. Mixing properly ensures that your cake has an even texture and bakes beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Carefully pour your chocolate cake batter over the cherry pie filling. Take your time to spread it out evenly so every bite has both chocolate and cherry goodness.

Step 4: Bake

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean. This means your cake is perfectly baked!

Step 5: Cool and Invert

Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps set everything before flipping. Then, place a large serving platter over your baking pan and carefully invert it onto the platter. The moment you lift off the pan to reveal those glistening cherries is always magical! Serve warm or at room temperature – enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫

Creating this delectable cake is a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can make it even better!

• Use fresh cherries for a burst of flavor: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the canned cherry pie filling for fresh pitted cherries. This will give your cake an amazing natural sweetness and vibrant texture.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes helps it set properly and makes it easier to invert without falling apart. You want that perfect presentation!

• Check your cake early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake at around 30 minutes. You want it to be moist but fully cooked, and a toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

• Experiment with toppings: While the cherries are delicious, consider adding crushed nuts or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before baking for extra crunch and flavor.

• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take this dessert to the next level, adding creaminess that beautifully complements the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫

Presenting your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to showcase this sweet treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and contrasts nicely with the rich chocolate.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds color but also provides a refreshing hint that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm chocolate cake, providing a delightful temperature contrast.
• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed fresh berries brings a burst of tartness that complements the sweet cherries in the cake.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice enhances the chocolate flavor and makes for a decadent experience.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving this cake alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea creates a lovely pairing that enhances its rich flavors.

Enjoy making and serving this delicious Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫! Your family and friends will surely be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it to enjoy later, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready whenever the craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cake is completely cooled.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• If reheating the whole cake, cover it with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dessert.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling in the Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫?

Yes, you can! Simply pit and slice fresh cherries and toss them with a little sugar before layering them in the pan. This will create a similar sweet base for your cake.

How should I serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫?

This cake is best served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or top it with whipped cream or dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, and follow the recipe as directed. It will be just as delicious!

How long does Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫 last in the fridge?

Stored properly, this cake can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s covered well to maintain its moisture.

Can I add nuts to my Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake 🍒🍫?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch. Sprinkle them over the cherry layer before pouring in the batter for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake! It’s a special dessert that brings together rich chocolate and sweet cherries into one decadent treat that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a celebration or just because, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures with friends and family!