Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake is a dreamy dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the sweet, juicy goodness of cherries. This cake is perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or just when you want to treat yourself. With its easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll impress your family and friends with minimal effort.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this delightful cake. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Second, the combination of chocolate and cherries creates a flavor explosion that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Finally, this cake is visually appealing, making it perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
- Chocolate shavings
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of cherry pie filling. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming (not boiling).
- Pour the heated cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- In a cold bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the remaining cherry pie filling over the cooled cake.
- Pour and spread the chocolate ganache over the top and let it set for 10 minutes.
- Add the whipped topping, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings. Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
This cake is best served chilled. You can slice it into squares and serve it on a pretty plate. For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It’s perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or as a sweet end to any meal.
How to Store Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
You can store the leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving again.
Tips to Make Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
- Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the toppings to prevent melting.
- You can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available, just make sure they are thawed and drained well.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, you can try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even use different flavors of cake mix. Raspberry or black cherry pie filling can also be a delicious twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make the cake a day before you plan to serve it. Just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh.
2. Can I use a different type of icing?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite icing or a simple buttercream if you prefer.
3. What should I do if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can replace it with half-and-half or use a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream for the ganache.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake!
Print
Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A dreamy dessert combining rich chocolate and juicy cherries, perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of cherry pie filling and pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- In a cold bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the remaining cherry pie filling over the cooled cake, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, and let it set for 10 minutes.
- Add the whipped topping, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Best served chilled; store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chocolate cake, cherry dessert, celebration cake