Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that transports you back to cozy childhood moments and instantly wow guests, look no further than Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake. Imagine rich chocolate cake layered over a glossy blanket of cherry pie filling, crowned with a buttery brown sugar topping—one bite is enough to spark pure joy. Not only does this classic treat dazzle with dramatic colors and vibrant flavors, it’s also a total breeze thanks to a few clever shortcuts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how straightforward these ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the unforgettable taste, gooey texture, and stunning look of this dessert. Here’s why every component earns its keep:

• Cherry Pie Filling: The star of the show! Provides juicy bursts of real cherries, a gorgeous ruby color, and a sweet tang that perfectly complements the chocolate base.
• Unsalted Butter: Gives you ultimate control over flavor and creates the rich, caramelized topping every upside down cake deserves.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep, molasses-y notes and melds with the butter to produce that signature syrupy layer.
• Chocolate Cake Mix: Your reliable shortcut to a tender, moist base—no need to measure flour, sugar, or cocoa!
• Large Eggs: These are the binding agents, giving the cake structure and richness.
• Vegetable Oil: Makes the cake extra moist and tender while keeping things light.
• Water: Keeps the batter perfectly hydrated for a soft crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: A dash elevates the chocolate and cherry flavors, creating balance and warmth in every bite.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and brush a 9×13-inch baking pan with a generous coat of butter or nonstick spray. The right prep work now ensures your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake pops out with that glossy fruit topping intact.

Step 2: Layer Butter and Brown Sugar

Pour your melted butter into the prepared pan, making sure it stretches edge to edge. Then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly on top—this is where that caramel magic begins, guaranteeing a sticky-sweet, golden crown.

Step 3: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Spoon the cherry pie filling carefully over the brown sugar layer. Spread it until the whole pan is covered with glistening cherries, ensuring every slice delivers a taste of jammy fruit.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Whisk or beat until the batter is smooth and luscious—you want everyone to dream about this cake’s rich, tender crumb!

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Gently pour the chocolate cake batter over the cherry layer. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges, careful not to disturb the fruit beneath. This keeps those gorgeous layers distinct after flipping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The cake will rise gorgeously and the scent will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to wait.

Step 7: Cool and Invert

Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps the juices settle and keeps your topping in place. Run a knife along the edges, then place a serving platter over the pan and invert with a swift confident motion. Lift off the pan to reveal a glossy, cherry-studded masterpiece, ready to be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

For an irresistible finish, try dolloping freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a sprinkle of chocolate shavings over each slice. A shower of toasted almonds or a drizzle of cherry syrup can also add texture and brilliance to this beautiful dessert.

Side Dishes

This cake truly shines solo, but it becomes a celebration alongside a simple cappuccino, herbal tea, or a glass of dessert wine. If you want to get extra decadent, pair it with fresh berries or a citrusy salad—the tang contrasts beautifully with the rich, fudgy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by cutting the cake into cubes and serving as bite-sized petit fours, or use a biscuit cutter for elegant circles layered in parfait glasses. You can even serve individual portions in ramekins for the cutest personal Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cakes at your next dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your leftover Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, and it will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors get even better as the cake soaks up the cherry juices overnight!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual portions or the whole (completely cooled) cake in plastic wrap, then foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

Want those warm, gooey vibes again? Microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, or reheat larger portions covered in a low oven. This freshens both the cake and the jammy cherry topping for that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Absolutely! Just cook your cherries with a bit of sugar and a splash of lemon juice until syrupy before using. This will mimic the texture and sweetness of ready-made pie filling.

Will the cake stick to the pan when I flip it?

As long as you grease your pan well and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before inverting, the buttery brown sugar layer should help it release easily. Running a knife around the edges first also helps!

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Definitely! Try vanilla or devil’s food cake for a twist. Each version brings its own magic, but classic chocolate really highlights the cherries.

How can I make this cake dairy-free?

Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, double-check that your cake mix doesn’t contain dairy, and you’re all set for a delicious, dairy-free Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake.

Is this good served cold?

Yes, it’s absolutely delicious cold! The cherry topping sets a bit more, and the cake stays rich and moist—perfect for a refreshing treat straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is the dessert you’ll crave again and again, whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight treat. Give it a try and let its easy magic become a new favorite at your table!

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