Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect harmony of fruity and rich flavors, the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This cake is a delightful celebration of moist chocolate cake, luscious cream cheese filling, and bursts of bright cherry goodness, all elegantly layered in a stunning bundt shape. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, this crowd-pleaser brings warmth, indulgence, and that wow factor everyone will ask you about again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for ingredients that are simple staples, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From fluffy flour to tangy cream cheese and vibrant cherries, every component works together seamlessly.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for a tender crumb.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetness that carries through every bite without overpowering.
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark hue.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds an extra lift for a tender texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate notes.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and slight tang for depth.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Lifts all flavors with its warm aroma.
• 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate without a bitter edge.
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: For a luscious, creamy filling with just the right tang.
• 1 large egg (for filling): Gives structure to the cream cheese layer.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese layer nicely.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for filling): Enhances the smoothness of the cream cheese.
• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling: Adds juicy bursts of cherry flavor and a glossy glaze finish.

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your bundt pan well with butter and flour, or a good baking spray, is essential so the cake releases cleanly after baking. This prep makes sure your beautiful cake doesn’t stick and keeps those lovely ridges intact.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt on low speed. This blends all the dry components evenly so each bite promises balanced flavor and texture. Taking the time here sets a solid foundation.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step ensures the wet ingredients are fully combined for perfect incorporation into the dry mix, adding moisture and richness to the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the stand mixer with the dry ingredients, mixing on low. Once combined, slowly pour in the hot coffee and mix just until smooth. The hot coffee is the secret that intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the batter too thin.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, one egg, sugar, and vanilla extract together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. This luscious layer adds a dreamy tangy contrast that makes this bundt cake unforgettable.

Step 6: Separate Cherries and Glaze

Use a large-hole strainer to separate the cherries from the syrup in the pie filling. Set both aside, reserving the glaze for finishing touches. The cherries will add juicy bursts inside the cake, while the glaze will provide a shiny, delicious finish.

Step 7: Fold Cherries Into Cake Batter

Stir half of the strained cherries gently into the cake batter, distributing those fruity bursts throughout for a beautiful surprise in every slice.

Step 8: Layer the Cake

Pour one-third of the cake batter into your bundt pan. Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then scatter the remaining strained cherries on top. Finally, pour the last third of batter over everything, gently smoothing the surface. This layering creates that stunning marble effect and flavor interplay.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye towards the end to avoid overbaking since the cream cheese filling can make the cake a bit denser.

Step 10: Cool in Pan

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before attempting to remove it. If you’re worried about sticking, carefully loosen the edges after 15 minutes. Cooling fully helps the cake set and keeps each slice from crumbling.

Step 11: Glaze Your Cake

Once cool, spoon the reserved cherry glaze evenly over the bundt cake. This final touch adds shine, sweetness, and more cherry flavor — truly the sweet cherry on top of your masterpiece.

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation and add an extra pop of color. Consider some shaved chocolate or curled chocolate pieces for an elegant finishing touch that pairs beautifully with the cherry and cream cheese flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement its rich layers. Light, fruity salads with citrus or mint can provide a refreshing contrast if you want to balance the indulgence with something fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bundt cake and tuck each piece into decorative cake stands or serve on rustic wooden boards with cherry compote drizzled artfully on the side. You can even use edible flowers or mint leaves for a garden-fresh look that will impress guests visually and flavorfully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your bundt cake is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For extended freshness, refrigeration is best, but let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy those gooey cream cheese layers at their best.

Freezing

This Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you like your cake slightly warm, gently heat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm the whole cake in a low oven (300°F) for 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to overheat as the cream cheese filling can become too soft.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used, but be sure to cook them down with a bit of sugar to create a syrupy consistency similar to pie filling for the best texture and flavor in your cake.

Is the coffee flavor noticeable in the cake?

The coffee enhances the richness of the chocolate without tasting like coffee. If you prefer, you can substitute coffee with hot water or milk, but the chocolate depth won’t be quite the same.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure it’s a 1:1 replacement designed for cakes to maintain the texture and rise.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can bake this in a 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on doneness with the toothpick test.

Can I prepare the cake batter the night before?

While you can prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and bake the cake fresh for optimal texture and flavor. Storing mixed batter overnight might affect the rise and texture.

Final Thoughts

Baking the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe is truly a joyful experience that results in a dessert as beautiful as it is delicious. Its layers of chocolate, cream cheese, and cherries create a symphony of flavors that are sure to bring warmth and smiles to your table. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s perfect for any occasion or simply because life deserves a little sweetness right now.

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