Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with the bright, fruity burst of cherries, you need to meet this irresistible Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake. This show-stopping treat combines moist chocolate cake layered over a gooey, caramelized cherry topping, all flipped to reveal a glossy, vibrant crown of cherries that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Every bite melts with chocolatey goodness and juicy cherry notes, making it a favorite for any gathering or cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake plays a starring role, combining simplicity with layers of flavor and texture. From the luscious cherry pie filling that brings that signature fruity brightness to the rich chocolate cake base that feels comforting with every bite, these ingredients are easy to find but pack serious punch.

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling: The sweet and tart foundation for that classic upside-down topping.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps caramelize the topping perfectly.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses sweetness that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• 1 box chocolate cake mix: The chocolate backbone that makes this cake irresistibly moist and fluffy.
• 3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist.
• 1 cup water: Helps achieve the perfect cake batter consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm, comforting note.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour the melted butter evenly across the bottom—this will help create that luscious, caramelized base everyone loves. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter, setting the stage for a luscious caramel flavor. Finally, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the sugar layer, letting those juicy cherries come forward as the shining star of the topping.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix with the eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until the batter is smooth, silky, and well blended. The chocolate aroma at this point is impossible not to get excited about—the batter promises a tender, moist cake that pairs beautifully with the sweet cherry topping.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Carefully pour the luscious chocolate cake batter over the cherry pie layer in your prepared pan. Spread it out gently and evenly so that every bite will have the perfect balance of cake and cherry topping. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will start to smell utterly divine!

Step 4: Cool and Invert

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This short resting time helps the topping set just enough so it won’t run off during the big reveal. Now comes the fun part: place a large serving platter over your baking pan and carefully invert the cake in one smooth motion. The cherry topping transforms into a stunning, glossy crown, ready to impress and delight.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

For an extra touch of decadence, consider adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice. Dusting with a little powdered sugar or sprinkling some toasted sliced almonds can add a lovely contrast in texture and a visual flourish that will make your dessert utterly unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a rich black tea—balancing the cake’s sweetness with a slightly bitter sip. For an adult twist, serve it alongside a glass of dessert wine like a ruby port, which complements the cherry and chocolate flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions by baking the cake in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for charming individual upside-down cakes. You can also layer slices between a fluffy chocolate mousse for an elegant dessert parfait or use the topping idea with pancakes or waffles, swapping out the cake batter for breakfast treats to wow your morning guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and believe me, that’s a good problem to have), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cake stays moist and flavorful, while the cherry topping remains delightfully sticky without getting overly mushy.

Freezing

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm the entire cake in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes. Warming brings back that fresh-baked feeling and makes the gooey cherry topping even more tempting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Just toss fresh pitted cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to mimic the thickened syrup before layering. This way, you keep that beautiful shine and perfect fruit texture.

Is it necessary to use a boxed chocolate cake mix?

While a boxed mix makes this recipe quick and foolproof, you can substitute your favorite homemade chocolate cake batter for an even more personalized cake experience.

How do I prevent the cherry topping from sticking to the pan after inverting?

Greasing the pan generously and melting the butter before mixing with brown sugar helps create a natural release layer. Letting the cake cool slightly before inverting also avoids sticking or breaking.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free version. Make sure your cherry pie filling and other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep it safe and delicious.

What’s the best way to serve this cake warm?

Serve it right after inverting for the freshest, warmest experience. Pair it with ice cream or whipped cream to balance warmth with cool creaminess—pure indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is a delicious celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a comforting treat, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and surprise everyone at your table with this chocolatey, cherry-topped delight.

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