Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake takes a beloved childhood favorite and doubles down on the indulgence. The base is a plush chocolate cake that stays extra moist thanks to the gooey cherry filling beneath it. Imagine the sweet tartness of cherries melting right into chocolate in every single bite. It is one of those back-pocket recipes that I rely on for celebrations and last-minute potlucks.

I first tried this for a family birthday and it quickly became everyone’s repeated request. Watching the whole cake flip and all those cherries glisten feels like magic every single time.

Ingredients

• Canned cherry pie filling: brings a sweet tangy fruit layer and saves loads of prep time Look for pie filling with whole cherries for the best results
• Unsalted butter melted: binds the topping and gives depth Choose butter with a creamy aroma
• Brown sugar: caramelizes to create a gooey layer on the bottom Opt for dark brown sugar for extra flavor
• Chocolate cake mix: guarantees moist tender cake Check for one with real cocoa listed as an ingredient
• Eggs: hold everything together and keep the cake fluffy Always use fresh eggs for best rise
• Vegetable oil: keeps the cake extra moist Go for a neutral oil for the cleanest taste
• Water: loosens the batter and hydrates for softness Filtered water can help avoid odd flavors
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile Pure vanilla adds warmth behind the chocolate and cherry

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch pan generously to prevent sticking Pour in the melted butter and tilt the pan so the base is coated

Layer the Topping:

Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter Make sure there are no dry pockets as this will caramelize beneath the cherries

Add the Cherries:

Gently spread the cherry pie filling evenly so it covers the sugar Giving extra attention to the corners helps every bite get fruit

Mix the Cake Batter:

Combine cake mix eggs oil water and vanilla in a large bowl Whisk well for two minutes until totally smooth and glossy This makes sure your cake rises evenly

Assemble and Pour:

Gently pour the batter over the cherry layer Use a spatula to spread it evenly so the cherries do not poke through

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake at three hundred fifty degrees for thirty five to forty minutes Check by poking the center with a toothpick You want moist crumbs not raw batter

Cool and Flip:

Let the cake rest ten minutes This helps the juices thicken and makes flipping safer Place your platter over the pan and invert in one motion Let the cake settle a minute before lifting the pan

Serve:

Cut and enjoy while still warm or let cool for neater slices A little vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top is irresistible

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My favorite part of this recipe is the dramatic moment of the flip You never know exactly how the gooey cherries will settle but seeing that bright ruby fruit on top always wows the crowd Even my non baking siblings have had success with this recipe at family brunches

How to Store

Keep any leftover cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days If you want to keep it longer store in the fridge where it will last up to five days Reheated slices in the microwave taste fresh from the oven

Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have cherry pie filling try using blueberry or raspberry pie filling for a different twist A gluten free chocolate cake mix also works well or add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter for a mocha flavor boost

Serving Suggestions

A scoop of vanilla ice cream cuts the richness of the chocolate or try a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream The cake also makes a great finish to a holiday meal or as a whimsical birthday dessert

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Cultural Notes

Upside down cakes date back to early American home cooking with pineapple and stone fruits being original choices Adding chocolate turns it into a modern comfort food mashup that feels nostalgic and new all at once

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries. If using fresh, pit and slice them, then mix with extra sugar and a bit of cornstarch to mimic the pie filling’s consistency.

→ What should I serve with this dessert?

Try it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic pairing. Vanilla custard also complements the chocolate and cherries.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any remaining cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it.

→ Will any chocolate cake mix work?

Most boxed chocolate cake mixes work well. Follow the package instructions, but use the provided quantities for best results.

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and bake ahead. Cool completely before storing. Reheat gently before serving if you prefer it warm.