Chocolate Cherry Dessert
A rich cherry-chocolate dessert featuring marshmallows, cherry pie filling, and devil's food cake, perfect for gatherings and satisfying chocolate and fruit cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch glass pan.
- Cover the bottom of the pan with mini marshmallows.
- Prepare devil's food cake mix as directed on the package.
- Spoon the prepared cake batter carefully over the marshmallows.
- In a bowl, mix dry cherry jello with cherry pie filling.
- Spoon the cherry mixture carefully over the cake batter without pouring.
- Bake for 50 minutes at 350°F.
- Cool the dessert and cut into squares.
- Serve with Cool Whip.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter. If you want to skip the cake mix, you can use a homemade chocolate cake recipe instead. For a lighter version, opt for mini marshmallows or vegan marshmallows. If you're out of cherry pie filling, you can substitute with fresh cherries and some sugar for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate Cherry Dessert is delightful when served with a dollop of Cool Whip on top. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or chopped nuts. It pairs beautifully with Marny'S Salad for a refreshing contrast or can be enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm. If you prefer a warm dessert, you can also reheat in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Cherry Dessert contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 a different flavor of pie filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling gives this dessert its signature taste, you can experiment with other flavors like blueberry or raspberry for a unique twist. Just make sure the flavors complement the chocolate cake for the best results.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make this Chocolate Cherry Dessert gluten-free, simply choose a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that will still yield a moist and flavorful cake. Ensure that all other ingredients, including marshmallows, are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert in advance. Assemble the layers and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to bake it fresh shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings.
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).