Chocolate-Cherry Crumb Cake
A decadent layered dessert combining rich chocolate cake, cherry pie filling, and creamy chocolate pudding, perfect for parties or indulgent gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the chocolate cake according to box directions and bake in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Let the cake cool completely.
- Crumble the cooled cake into fine crumbs and set aside.
- Prepare the chocolate pudding mixes with 4 cups of milk as per package instructions.
- Refrigerate the pudding until chilled and ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought chocolate pudding instead of instant mix. To make this dessert lighter, substitute half of the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries. Don't forget to check out other American recipes for variations!
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate-Cherry Crumb Cake is perfect for dessert or a sweet brunch treat. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating the entire cake to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate-Cherry Crumb Cake contains roughly 363 calories, with 6g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C.
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 to replicate the flavor of cherry pie filling. Consider cooking them down with a bit of sugar to create a similar consistency and flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Chocolate-Cherry Crumb Cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that your instant pudding mix is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
Can I freeze the crumb cake?
Yes, you can freeze the crumbled cake for up to three months. Just ensure it's in an airtight container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before assembling the dessert.
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).