Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with the sweet-tart burst of cherries. With layers of moist chocolate cake, luscious cherry filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache, this cake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress your guests with something truly decadent. The combination of three types of chocolate makes it a dream for any chocolate lover.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltbaking powderbaking sodacocoa powdereggsvegetable oilbuttermilkvanilla extracthot coffee or hot waterdark chocolate chipsmaraschino cherries (with juice)semisweet chocolate (for ganache)heavy cream

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and hot coffee. Beat until the batter is smooth.

Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries (reserve the juice).

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.

For the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped semisweet chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Optional: Mix a few tablespoons of cherry juice into the ganache for added flavor.

To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache and some reserved cherries over the top.

Place the second cake layer on top, and pour the remaining ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

Garnish with whole maraschino cherries or chocolate shavings if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling and assembly time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Use cherry pie filling between the layers for extra sweetness and texture.
Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the batter or ganache for an adult twist.
Make it into a bundt cake for a different presentation.
Top with whipped cream instead of ganache for a lighter option.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat a slice, microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, melty treat.
The cake can also be frozen (without ganache) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but be sure to pit and chop them. You may want to add a little extra sugar if they’re tart.

What kind of cocoa powder is best?
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder works great. For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet or dark chocolate?
You can, but the cake may be sweeter overall. Adjust sugar to taste if needed.

Do I have to use coffee in the batter?
No, hot water can be used, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.

Is the cake overly sweet with cherries and chocolate?
Not at all. The tartness of the cherries balances the sweetness and richness beautifully.

Can I make this as cupcakes?
Yes, bake in cupcake liners for 18-22 minutes, and top with ganache and a cherry for a stunning presentation.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake layers in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to assemble.

What’s the best way to get a clean ganache drip?
Make sure the ganache is slightly cooled and the cake is chilled before pouring for the cleanest drip effect.

Can I use cherry jam instead of whole cherries?
Yes, cherry jam makes a great alternative filling between the cake layers.

Is this cake kid-friendly?
Absolutely, just skip any liqueur and stick to maraschino or fresh cherries.

Conclusion

Triple Chocolate Cherry Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and cherry lovers alike. Its rich, moist texture and elegant layers make it a standout dessert for any special occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a loved one or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression.