Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake

This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake never fails to impress when you need something decadent in a hurry. The gooey cherry layer melts right into the rich chocolate base and brings comfort to any table. The ease of canned pie filling paired with boxed cake mix means you are out of the kitchen in minutes but serving up something that tastes like a from-scratch showstopper.

I first baked this on a Sunday afternoon for a potluck and returned home with nothing but crumbs. People still ask if I will bring that cherry chocolate cake next time

Ingredients

• Cherry pie filling: adds luscious fruit sweetness and a jammy texture Opt for a filling with whole cherries for the best presentation
• Unsalted butter: delivers a rich flavor base when melted and pairs perfectly with chocolate Choose a high-quality European style for even more richness
• Brown sugar: brings depth and enhances the gooey caramel notes in the topping Try to use fresh soft brown sugar to prevent clumping
• Chocolate cake mix: saves time and guarantees a plush moist cake Every brand is a bit different so pick your favorite with real cocoa listed high in the ingredient list
• Large eggs: add structure and richness Go for the freshest eggs possible for best results
• Vegetable oil: keeps the cake moist and tender A neutral oil like canola or sunflower is ideal
• Water: ensures the right batter consistency Preferably use filtered water for the cleanest flavor
• Vanilla extract: enhances chocolate flavor and rounds out the sweetness Pure extract makes a big difference here

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking pan so nothing sticks once the cake is flipped

Build the Cherry Layer:

Pour the melted butter across the bottom of the prepared pan then scatter the brown sugar in an even layer on top Next spread the cherry pie filling gently from edge to edge making sure the fruit is distributed evenly for a pretty finished cake

Mix the Batter:

In a large bowl combine chocolate cake mix eggs vegetable oil water and vanilla extract Mix using a hand mixer or strong whisk until completely smooth and glossy This step is worth the extra minute or two for a lump free batter that bakes up light

Assemble and Pour:

Carefully spoon or ladle the cake batter over the cherry layer Pour slowly to avoid disturbing the fruit layer underneath and use a spatula to smooth out the top so the cake bakes evenly

Bake to Perfection:

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes Test with a toothpick near the center It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs

Cool and Flip:

Let the cake cool for about ten minutes in the pan This resting time helps the topping set just enough Then cover the pan with a large platter and gently invert so the cherry topping becomes the gorgeous top of the cake Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor

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Storage Tips

Once cooled store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days For longer storage refrigerate and let the cake come to room temperature before serving again It is just as delicious cold from the fridge but if you want that just baked gooey feel try warming a slice in the microwave for fifteen seconds

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a homemade touch you can swap in your own cherry filling made with pitted sour cherries simmered in sugar and cornstarch Gluten free chocolate cake mix works just as well in this recipe and coconut oil is a fine substitute for vegetable oil in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

This cake is absolutely dreamy served with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream If you want to get fancy dust the finished cake with a bit of cocoa powder or garnish with extra fresh cherries for color

Cake Tradition and Family Memories

Upside down cakes have a vintage charm that reminds me of potluck tables at my grandmother’s house Swapping tropical pineapple for chocolate and cherries gives this retro idea a brand new twist My family loves sharing memories with every slice and this recipe brings out stories from everyone at the table

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What pan size is best for this dessert?

A 9×13-inch baking pan works well to ensure even layers and proper baking.

→ Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Yes, homemade cherry pie filling adds a fresh, tangy flavor—just ensure it's thickened.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

→ Is it possible to use a different fruit topping?

Other fruit fillings, such as blueberry or apple, work well for a similar upside down dessert.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream complements the warm chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.