Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

This Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true—with a luscious, deep cocoa flavor, bursts of sweet-tart cherries, and layers of moist, rich texture in every bite. It’s the perfect quick-fix dessert that feels ultra-indulgent but comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you just need something sweet, fast. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this cake delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Rich: Three layers of chocolate—cocoa powder, chocolate chips, and chocolate frosting—make this cake irresistibly decadent.
• Quick and Easy: No need for fancy equipment or complicated steps—this cake is simple enough for beginners and quick enough for last-minute cravings.
• Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the cherries and sour cream, the texture is ultra-moist and the flavor is beautifully balanced.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy a slice solo, it’s a guaranteed hit for chocolate and cherry lovers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a mile-long grocery list—just these easy-to-find ingredients with purpose:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake—don’t skip sifting for a smoother crumb.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that deep chocolate base—go for a high-quality brand if possible.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps keep the cake tender.
• Baking powder & baking soda: A dynamic duo to ensure the perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Salt: Enhances all the chocolatey richness.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist—way better than butter for texture here.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that plays beautifully with the chocolate.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors—pure vanilla is worth it.
• Canned cherry pie filling: The star add-in that gives sweet-tart bursts throughout the cake.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate goodness.
• Chocolate frosting: For that final, fudgy layer of indulgence.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? Here are a few fun takes on this classic:

• Black Forest Vibes: Add a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the batter or frosting.
• Make It a Bundt: Bake the batter in a Bundt pan for a stunning presentation—just adjust the baking time.
• Add Nuts: A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans adds crunch and depth.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream, dairy-free chocolate chips, and an egg substitute like flax eggs.

How to Make Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch cake pan (or two 8-inch rounds) and line with parchment if desired for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and a fluffier cake.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in oil, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently—don’t overmix!

Step 4: Fold in the Cherries and Chips

Gently fold in the cherry pie filling and chocolate chips. The cherries will naturally break up a little, adding flavor and moisture throughout.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay).

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Let the cake cool completely before slathering on a thick layer of chocolate frosting. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle more chocolate chips or even a few cherries on top.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the batter comes together—overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Room Temp Ingredients: Let your eggs and sour cream come to room temperature for better texture.
• Check Early: Ovens vary—start checking at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Homemade Frosting: If you have time, a homemade ganache or whipped chocolate buttercream takes this over the top.

How to Serve

This cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, pair it with:

• A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or cherry syrup

It’s the ultimate centerpiece for birthdays, potlucks, or just cozy nights in with a good movie.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It stays moist and flavorful even after chilling.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.

Reheating

Microwave slices for 10–15 seconds for that just-baked softness and melty chocolate chip goodness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes! You can use pitted fresh or frozen cherries, but make sure to cook them down a bit with some sugar and cornstarch to mimic the consistency of pie filling.

Can I make this cake in advance for a party?
Absolutely. This cake tastes even better the next day, as the flavors develop and deepen. Just store it covered and frost it before serving if you prefer a fresh finish.

Is this recipe suitable for cupcakes?
Definitely! Scoop the batter into lined muffin tins about 2/3 full and bake for 18–22 minutes. You’ll get ultra-moist, cherry-studded chocolate cupcakes.

Can I use a different frosting?
Of course! Cream cheese frosting, cherry buttercream, or even a whipped ganache would be delicious alternatives to the standard chocolate frosting.

Final Thoughts

This Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake is pure comfort in every bite—deeply chocolaty, perfectly moist, and bursting with fruity cherry flavor. It’s a simple yet stunning dessert that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of coffee, this cake brings joy to the table. Go ahead—treat yourself!

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