If you love the rich combination of chocolate and cherries, this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is your new go-to dessert! Moist chocolate cake topped with a caramelized cherry glaze makes this treat as stunning as it is delicious. Best of all, you can make it with just a cake mix for an easy yet impressive dessert.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake recipe, including pro tips, variations, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake using cake mix simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake
✅ Easy to make – Uses simple ingredients (including cake mix for a shortcut!).
✅ Stunning presentation – The glossy cherry topping looks bakery-worthy.
✅ Perfect flavor balance – Sweet cherries + rich chocolate = heaven.
✅ Great for any occasion – Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight treats.
Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake
Cherry Topping Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or 2 cups fresh pitted cherries + ½ cup sugar)
- ¼ cup butter (melted)
- ½ cup brown sugar (for caramelization)
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (devil’s food or dark chocolate)
- Ingredients listed on cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, water)
- Optional add-ins:
- 1 tsp almond extract (enhances cherry flavor)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (for extra richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions (Easy Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake Recipe)
Step 1: Prep the Cherry Topping
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mix melted butter and brown sugar, then spread evenly in the pan.
- Spoon cherry pie filling over the butter mixture.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix as directed (add eggs, oil, water).
- (Optional) Stir in almond extract or chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake & Flip
- Pour batter over the cherry layer.
- Bake for 30-35 mins (until a toothpick comes out clean).
- Cool for 10 mins, then invert onto a plate.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
🔹 Use a non-stick pan to ensure easy flipping.
🔹 Fresh vs. canned cherries: Fresh cherries + sugar work, but pie filling is quicker.
🔹 Add a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur) for an adult twist.
🔹 Dust with powdered sugar for a elegant finish.
FAQs (Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake)
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! Simmer 2 cups pitted cherries + ½ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch until thickened.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Grease the pan generously and let it cool slightly before flipping.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a GF chocolate cake mix and check cherry filling labels.
Variations to Try
🍒 Black Forest Version – Add a layer of whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
🍫 Double Chocolate – Use chocolate cherry pie filling.
🌰 Nutty Twist – Sprinkle chopped almonds on top.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake recipe is a foolproof way to impress guests with minimal effort. The cake mix shortcut saves time, while the glossy cherry topping makes it look like you spent hours baking!
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