Name: Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 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

If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that blends deep, chocolaty decadence with vibrant, juicy fruit, you’re in for a treat with this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake. Imagine digging your fork through a soft, rich chocolate crumb only to hit a layer of glossy, ruby-red cherries nestled in a sweet, buttery topping. This cake brings classic flavors together with remarkable ease, and whether it’s a weeknight craving or the star of your next gathering, it promises both drama and deliciousness every single time.

Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s celebrate how simple yet essential each of these ingredients is. Every item is chosen for a reason: to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in our Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake. Grab these staples and get your oven ready because things are about to get mouthwatering!

Cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): This provides that juicy, tangy, jewel-toned topping we all crave, making every bite visually stunning and bursting with cherry flavor.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Butter ensures a glossy base and a rich, caramel-like taste that anchors the cherries beautifully.
Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a deep sweetness and helps those cherries form a gorgeous sticky layer once baked.
Chocolate cake mix (1 box): The shortcut to a fluffy, moist, and ultra-chocolatey crumb without any fuss—your secret weapon.
Large eggs (3): They bind the batter, adding richness and the perfect structure.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake wonderfully moist and tender without overpowering the chocolate.
Water (1 cup): The simple ingredient that brings everything together, ensuring an even, smooth batter.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash goes a long way to round out all the sweet, hearty flavors in this special cake.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

First, let’s set the stage for that irresistible cherry crown. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and start by generously greasing your 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour the melted butter in, swirling it to fully coat the bottom, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over top. This little trick ensures every slice of your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake will have a sweet, silky foundation. Finally, spread the cherry pie filling, letting it settle in a single, vibrant layer.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine your chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Grab a whisk or electric mixer and beat everything together until your batter is totally smooth and free of lumps. The aroma alone will have you swooning—it’s the promise of pure chocolate bliss to come!

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Now, carefully pour the luscious chocolate cake batter over the cherry mixture in your pan. Use a spatula to gently spread it out so it covers all the fruit. Take a moment to admire those layers—you’re building something incredible!

Step 4: Bake

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a springy top and a clean toothpick when you test the center. The scent of chocolate and cherry together while this bakes might just make everyone in your house wander into the kitchen with anticipation.

Step 5: Cool and Invert

Patience pays off! Once baked, give your cake about 10 minutes to cool in the pan. Then comes the magical part: place a large serving platter on top, grip both pan and plate, and carefully flip. Let the pan rest upside down for a minute so every bit of that gooey cherry topping slides onto your cake. Lift the pan to reveal your masterpiece—congratulations, your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is ready to wow!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

Elevate your slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of bittersweet chocolate sauce. The contrast of cool creaminess with warm, glossy cherries and tender chocolate cake is nothing short of dreamy.

Side Dishes

Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake pairs irresistibly well with simple sides that let its flavors shine. Try it alongside strong coffee, hot espresso, or even a splash of brandy for the grown-ups. A scattering of toasted almonds or a small bowl of fresh berries can balance its rich sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn dessert into a celebration! Slice the cake into individual squares and serve in fancy cupcake liners, or cut into circles with a cookie cutter for a plated, restaurant-style look. For parties, layer cubes of the cake in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra cherries for a delightful trifle twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any remaining Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake airtight—either in the pan tightly covered or transferred to a container—at room temperature for up to three days. It stays moist, and those cherries keep everything deliciously fresh.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the cooled cake into portions, wrap well in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a ready-to-enjoy treat anytime a craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked taste again, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The cherry topping will turn gooey and fragrant, enhancing every bite of your Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! If cherries are in season, you can cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch for a homemade touch. Just make sure to create a sweet, saucy consistency to mimic the pie filling for best results.

What kind of chocolate cake mix works best?

Any classic chocolate cake mix will do the trick, but devil’s food or dark chocolate versions offer an even richer flavor. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand—Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is wonderfully forgiving.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Generously grease your pan, ensuring all corners and edges are well coated before adding the butter and sugar. If you want extra insurance, you can line the bottom with parchment paper, too.

Can I make Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake in advance?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dessert! Bake it the night before, let it cool, and invert it only when you’re ready to serve. This lets the flavors meld and makes party planning a breeze.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the regular cake mix for your favorite gluten-free version. All the other ingredients are readily gluten-free, so everyone can indulge in this fruity, chocolatey delight.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a memorable crowd pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is fun to serve, this Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake deserves the spotlight. The gorgeous layers, bold flavors, and eye-catching presentation are guaranteed to win hearts. You simply have to try it and let every slice tell the story of your new favorite dessert!