Chocolate Cherry Cake Or Bars
Decadent chocolate fudge cake with sweet cherry pie filling and almond flavor, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a rich, fruity treat suitable for gatherings or casual indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients until well mixed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter or substituting the almond extract with vanilla extract if preferred. If you want a lighter version, you can use egg whites instead of whole eggs. Ensure the pan is adequately greased to prevent sticking, and check for doneness with a toothpick. This recipe is a delightful twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chocolate cherry cake warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs beautifully with a drizzle of Hot Brown Sugar Sauce for added sweetness. This cake can also be cut into bars for easy serving at parties or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Cherry Cake Or Bars contains roughly 338 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh cherries, but you'll need to sweeten them and possibly add a thickening agent like cornstarch to mimic the pie filling's texture. This will create a fresh twist on the recipe, enhancing the overall flavor.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Can I freeze the chocolate cherry cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and reheat if desired.
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).