Chocolate Cherry Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Chocolate Cherry Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining rich chocolate with sweet, tart cherries. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion where you want a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries, pitted
- 1 batch chocolate cake batter (your favorite homemade or store-bought mix)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven according to the chocolate cake batter recipe or package instructions. In a round cake pan, melt the butter over low heat, then sprinkle the sugar evenly on top.
- Step 2: Arrange the cherries in a single layer over the butter and sugar mixture. Carefully pour the chocolate cake batter over the cherries, spreading it evenly.
- Step 3: Bake the cake according to the batter instructions, usually around 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 4: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges and carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the cherries are on top.
Tips & Variations
- Use maraschino or frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available—just thaw frozen cherries before use.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or add a splash of almond extract to the batter.
- Try adding chopped nuts over the butter and sugar before arranging the cherries for a crunchy texture.
Storage
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this cake?
Yes, frozen cherries work well. Be sure to thaw and drain them before placing them in the pan to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking when I invert it?
Make sure to melt the butter and sprinkle sugar evenly in the pan before adding cherries and batter. Letting the cake cool slightly before inverting also helps it release more easily.
PrintChocolate Cherry Upside-Down Cake Recipe
This Chocolate Cherry Upside-Down Cake is a luscious dessert featuring a rich chocolate cake baked over a layer of sweet, buttery cherries. The result is a moist, decadent cake with a caramelized cherry topping that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fruit Layer
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Chocolate Cake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Prepare the cherries: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, spread the melted butter evenly over the bottom. Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the butter, then arrange the pitted cherries in a single layer on top of the sugar mixture.
- Make the chocolate cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the chocolate cake batter gently over the cherries in the pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully loosen the edges with a knife and invert the cake onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful cherry topping. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before use.
- For extra flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter.
- Ensure the cake is cool enough before inverting to prevent breaking.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Keywords: chocolate cherry upside-down cake, cherry cake, chocolate cake, upside-down cake, fruit cake, dessert recipe

