Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Name: Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 box chocolate cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Published: September 4, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of chocolate and cherries creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
Versatile Dessert: This cake is great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant celebration.
Impressive Presentation: The upside-down style makes for a beautiful presentation that will wow your guests.
Moist and Rich Texture: The combination of butter and cherry filling keeps the cake moist and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking pan (9×13 inches)
Whisk or electric mixer
Measuring cups
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures you have enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Baking pan: The right size pan allows for even baking and easy flipping of the cake.
Whisk or electric mixer: These tools help achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving you time and effort.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cherry Topping

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar

For the Chocolate Cake

1 box chocolate cake mix
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the brown sugar layer.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix well until you achieve a smooth batter free of lumps.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Carefully pour the prepared cake batter over the cherry pie filling. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly for consistent baking.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Invert

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Place a large serving platter over it, then carefully invert to release onto the platter. Serve warm or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Serving your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is as delightful as making it. This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavors.

Pair with Whipped Topping

Add a dollop of whipped topping for a light, creamy contrast that balances the cake’s richness.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes the indulgence to another level.

Accompany with Fresh Cherries

Garnish the plate with fresh cherries to add a pop of color and freshness alongside the dessert.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

Serving the cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a perfect afternoon snack or dessert.

How to Perfect Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

To ensure your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and high-quality cake mix for the best flavor and texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is accurately calibrated, as baking times can vary based on temperature fluctuations.
Cool Before Inverting: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes; this helps prevent breakage when you invert it onto a platter.
Grease Pan Generously: Use enough butter to coat the baking pan thoroughly, ensuring easy removal of the cake after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to the rich cake.
Chocolate Mousse
A light and airy chocolate mousse complements the dense texture of the cake while enhancing its chocolate flavor.
Pecan Pie Bars
These sweet bars offer a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy texture that pairs well without overpowering the flavor profile of the cake.
Caramel Sauce
Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for drizzling over slices, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
Ginger Tea
A soothing ginger tea can help cleanse the palate between bites, providing warmth and spice that pairs well with chocolate.
Banana Pudding
Creamy banana pudding adds a deliciously nostalgic touch that harmonizes beautifully with cherries and chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure your cake rises properly.
Skipping the Greasing Step: Forgetting to grease the pan may result in a cake that sticks. Use butter or non-stick spray for easy removal.
Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
Improper Cooling Time: Removing the cake too soon can cause it to break apart. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before inverting it.
Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or water can affect how well they mix. Bring these ingredients to room temperature for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake:

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used! Just pit and slice them, then mix with sugar and a bit of cornstarch before layering in the pan.

How long does the Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.

Can I substitute other flavors for chocolate?

Absolutely! You can try vanilla or almond cake mix for a different flavor profile while keeping the cherry topping.

What is the best way to serve this cake?

Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is delightful served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by using different fruits or cake flavors. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich taste at your next gathering!

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