Black Cherry Forest Cake "Plus"
A rich and moist chocolate cherry cake layered with cherry filling and coconut, perfect for celebrations or dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blend the cake mix, cherry pie filling, vegetable oil, almond flavoring, and eggs on low speed for 1 minute, then beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes, scraping the bowl frequently.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 14 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, approximately 30 minutes.
- Cool completely in the pan.
- Leave the cake in the pan for serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter. If you prefer a lighter cake, substitute half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. When mixing, avoid over-beating to maintain a tender crumb. For a twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Black Cherry Forest Cake chilled, topped with a generous dollop of chocolate Cool Whip. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider adding fresh cherries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair. For a complete meal, it complements well with a light salad like Butterfly Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the cake moist, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. If you wish to reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Cherry Forest Cake "Plus" contains roughly 390 calories, with 3g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cherries for the cherry pie filling. Pit and chop about 2 cups of fresh cherries, then toss them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to mimic the filling's sweetness and thickness. This will add a fresh flavor to the cake.
How can I make this cake more festive for a celebration?
To make the cake more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the Cool Whip or decorating with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings. You could also layer the cake with additional whipped cream and cherries for a tiered effect. Serving it on a decorative platter will elevate its presentation.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious when served. Just add the Cool Whip topping right before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).