Name: Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 6 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¾ cup milk (room temperature); ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate; 1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch or milk powder (for stability); 2 cups full-fat cream cheese, cold (about 16 oz); ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 2 to 2 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 2 to 3 tablespoons cooled cherry jam (from above); ½ lemon juiced

If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that’s both irresistibly rich and surprisingly simple to make, this Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine biting into four luscious layers of moist chocolate cake, each infused and crowned with luscious cherry jam and a decadent cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s a heartwarming treat that looks impressive but comes together with a handful of pantry staples and just one bowl for the cake batter. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors with an effortless charm that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two bowls on a white marbled surface with a blue cloth with white flower patterns underneath each bowl. The bowl on the left is a metal bowl filled with a mixture of white and light pink swirled together, with a whisk placed inside. The bowl on the right is a white bowl with a creamy light brown mixture, which has a smooth, swirled texture, and a whisk is resting inside the bowl. A woman's hand is partly visible holding the whisk in the left bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the list intimidate you—each ingredient in this Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe is straightforward and thoughtfully chosen to bring harmony between deep chocolate, bright cherry, and smooth cream cheese. From the cocoa that gives the cake its rich color and flavor to the fresh or frozen cherries that add a burst of natural sweetness, every component plays a crucial role.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and crumb for the cake layers.
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and a deep, inviting color.
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay tender.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acid to give the cake a light texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
½ cup neutral oil (canola or vegetable): Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right while contributing to texture.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind ingredients together and add richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the chocolate flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
¾ cup milk (room temperature): Moisturizes the batter, resulting in a tender crumb.
½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional): For extra melty chocolate pockets within the cake.
1 ½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen): The star fruit for the vibrant cherry jam layer.
¼ cup granulated sugar (for jam): Sweetens and helps thicken the cherry jam.
2 teaspoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the cherry jam’s sweetness.
2 cups full-fat cream cheese (cold): The creamy base for the luscious frosting.
½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
2 to 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Soften the tang of the cream cheese with warmth and depth.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the frosting’s flavor.
2–3 tablespoons cooled cherry jam: Gently folded into the frosting for a subtle cherry twist.
Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch or milk powder: Provides extra stability for the cherry jam if desired.
Juice of ½ lemon: Adds brightness to the cherry jam layer and frosting.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for an easy release after baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—until they are fully combined. This ensures even distribution throughout the batter for a perfectly textured cake.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine your neutral oil and granulated sugar, whisking them together until just blended. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. This step builds a rich, smooth base that will carry the cake’s flavor beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mix in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts—starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together just until smooth, taking care not to overmix, which can lead to a dense cake. At this stage, fold in the chocolate chips if you’re using them; they’ll create little pockets of gooey chocolate delight in the final product.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let them cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling thoroughly is key for smooth frosting application.

Step 5: Make the Cherry Jam (Prepare a Day Ahead)

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and mashing some of the cherries to create a jammy consistency. If you want a thicker jam, stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook for a few more minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let cool completely. This homemade cherry jam is the jewel of the whole dessert, adding a fresh and slightly tart note.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Also Best Made Ahead)

Beat the butter on high speed until pale and fluffy. Add the cold cream cheese and mix until smooth but careful not to overbeat, which can cause the frosting to become too soft. Incorporate vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and sifted powdered sugar gradually, mixing until thick and luscious. Fold in a few tablespoons of the cooled cherry jam for a subtle cherry flavor that makes this frosting truly unique. Refrigerate overnight to firm up before using.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake Masterpiece

If the cake layers have domed on top, carefully level them with a serrated knife. Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top, followed by a thin layer of cherry jam if you like. Add the second cake layer, apply a crumb coat of frosting, and chill briefly to set. Finish frosting the entire cake with a smooth, even layer. You can decorate with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, or frosting piping to match your mood. Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing to enjoy that perfect texture and flavor combination.

How to Serve Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe

A slice of cake with four thin layers of dark brown chocolate sponge, separated by three thin layers of light cream filling, all covered in a smooth light pink frosting that extends from the top to the sides. The cake is decorated with small dark chocolate curls on one side and a single dark cherry with a green stem resting on the white plate next to the cake. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really make your Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe pop, consider topping it with fresh cherries for a burst of juicy color, delicate chocolate shavings for richness, or even sprigs of fresh mint for an aromatic finish. These simple touches elevate the presentation and add delightful layers of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. For more grown-up gatherings, a glass of sparkling rosé or a rich cup of coffee complements the deep chocolate and fruity cherry notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, serve slices with a drizzle of cherry coulis or a dusting of cocoa powder on the plate. Alternatively, cut smaller individual portions and serve them in pretty cupcake liners for an elegant, party-friendly presentation. Don’t forget that letting the layers peek through with some rustic frosting patterns can make the cake look effortlessly beautiful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This will keep the cream cheese frosting and cherry jam fresh and delicious while allowing the flavors to deepen even more after sitting.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled cake or just the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. For the best quality, freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

This cake is best served fresh or cooled, so reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if you want to enjoy the cake slightly warmed, place a slice in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds, just enough to soften the frosting without melting it completely.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for the cherry jam?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking your jam to avoid extra moisture in the final product.

Is it necessary to make the cherry jam and frosting a day ahead?

While you can prepare them the same day, making the cherry jam and frosting ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the frosting to firm up, making assembly easier and resulting in a more harmonious taste experience.

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with another type?

You can try a whipped chocolate ganache or a classic buttercream, but keep in mind the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy balance that pairs beautifully with the cherry jam and chocolate cake.

Do I need special cake pans for this recipe?

Two 8-inch round cake pans are ideal for getting those perfect layers, but if you only have one, you can bake the layers one at a time, just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but be sure to check if your blend includes xanthan gum or add a binding agent to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chocolate Cherry Cake (Four-Layer One-Bowl Dessert) Recipe is truly a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something wonderfully homemade without feeling overwhelmed. From the luscious cake layers to the vibrant cherry jam and creamy frosting, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a go—it might just become your new favorite cake to bake and share!