Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake

The Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake is one of those recipes that feels extra special no matter the occasion. It combines the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate with a delicious burst of cherries. If you’ve ever tasted a slice of this cake, you know the moment of delicious surprise you get with every bite. Imagine biting into velvety chocolate only to find a sweet cherry filling waiting within—pure bliss! This bundt cake is not just about taste; it’s also about the love and joy that goes into baking it. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this cake elevates any experience. Plus, it’s simple enough for novice bakers and impressive enough to wow even seasoned pros. Trust me, once you bake this cake, you’ll want to share it with everyone, and they’ll beg you for the recipe. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get right into this delightful Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake recipe!

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Why This Recipe Works

The Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake elevates traditional chocolate cake by integrating luscious cherry pie filling, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. By using high-quality ingredients like Greek yogurt and chocolate pudding mix, the cake retains moisture while achieving that indulgent chocolatey goodness. The combination not only enhances taste but also adds richness that makes each slice irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake

This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. With its rich chocolate body and a sweet cherry surprise in every slice, it’s perfect for any celebration or simply a treat for yourself. The homemade chocolate ganache adds a decadent finish, making this bundt cake not only delicious but visually stunning too. Each bite is a little moment of joy that you won’t want to miss.

Ingredients

• 15.25 oz box chocolate cake mix
• 3.4 oz box chocolate instant pudding mix
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups cherry pie filling
• 1 chocolate bar for garnish
• 2 cups semi-sweet/milk/dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Preparing the Bundt Cake

Preheat and Prepare the Bundt Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake. Next, grease a 12-cup bundt pan with a non-stick baking spray that contains flour to make removing the cake a breeze later. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, chocolate pudding mix, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until the batter is smooth and well-combined. It’s really fun to see the transformation as the dry mix turns into a rich chocolate batter!

Layering the Batter and Cherry Filling

Spoon half of the chocolate batter into the bottom of the prepared bundt pan. Create a well in the center by gently pushing the batter up against the sides. Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling into the well, spreading it evenly without touching the sides of the pan. This layering is where the magic happens—trust me on this!

Seal with Remaining Batter

Now, pour the remaining chocolate cake batter over the cherry layer, spreading it gently to seal the sides. This helps to prevent any of that luscious filling from leaking out during baking, keeping everything nice and tidy.

Bake the Cake

Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is incredible.

Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This step is important! Invert the cake onto a cooling rack or serving plate to cool completely. This lets steam escape, ensuring you have the perfect texture.

Making the Ganache

Heating the Chocolate and Cream

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It’s like magic watching it transform into that luscious ganache!

Pour the Ganache

Once the ganache is prepared, pour it generously over the cooled bundt cake. Let it drizzle down the sides, creating a gorgeous, decadent look. Allow it to set for a bit while you prepare to serve.

Garnishing the Cake

Once the ganache has set, top the cake with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and decorative maraschino cherries for an extra touch of elegance. These finishing touches not only boost the visual appeal but also add extra flavor that compliments your cake beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

The Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake is a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavors. The coolness of the ice cream pairs so well with the warm cake, creating a delightful harmony of taste and texture.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. This helps the batter come together more smoothly.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain the cake’s tenderness. Just mix until it is combined; it’s okay if a few lumps remain.
• Let the cake cool completely before adding the ganache. This step ensures a smooth and glossy finish.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different chocolate types for the cake or ganache, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate. For a twist, you could add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover bundt cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. You’ll want to keep it fresh because trust me, leftovers won’t last long!

Pairing Ideas

This cake pairs beautifully with a range of beverages. A cup of coffee or a glass of red wine complements the rich chocolate flavor, while a fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness. Both options make the dessert experience even more enjoyable.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Using fresh cherries is possible, but the pie filling ensures consistency and sweetness. Plus, it creates that wonderful surprise in each slice!

2. How long can I store the Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake?
You can keep it at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free version to make it gluten-free. There are great options available these days!

4. What type of chocolate should I use for the ganache?
Choose between semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate based on your preference for sweetness. Each will give the ganache a different character.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and add the ganache the next day for perfect presentation. A little planning makes baking even more enjoyable.

This Chocolate Cherry Bundt Cake is perfect for elevating your dessert game, combining rich chocolate with a delightful cherry surprise. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple family treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the rich flavors and enticing visuals it brings to your table!

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