Lite Cherry Chocolate Cake
A moist, flavorful cherry chocolate cake featuring cherry pie filling and almond extract, perfect for a light dessert or special occasion for chocolate and fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cake mix, almond extract, cherry pie filling, and egg substitute well for 2 minutes.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch cake pan.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes at 350°F until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Frost with one can of low-fat fudge frosting before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider using a bit of Greek yogurt or applesauce as an egg substitute instead of the standard commercial options. Ensure your cake mix is a lighter variety to keep the cake fluffy. If you want to elevate the flavor, a splash of vanilla extract can complement the almond extract beautifully. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lite Cherry Chocolate Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It makes a great dessert for potlucks or family gatherings, and its vibrant cherry flavor can be complemented by fresh cherries on top. Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, which keeps them fresh for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lite Cherry Chocolate Cake contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 0g 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 fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries; however, you'll need to sweeten them and possibly cook them down a bit to mimic the consistency of pie filling. Add a bit of sugar and cornstarch to help achieve the right texture and balance the tartness.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, which is readily available at most grocery stores. Ensure that the cherry pie filling is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten as a thickener.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes! Use a commercial egg substitute or a flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of the egg substitute. Additionally, ensure your frosting is vegan-friendly, or make a simple frosting using powdered sugar and almond milk. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this cake.
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).