Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake

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If you’re searching for the perfect indulgence, this Decadent Chocolate Cherry Dream Cake delivers everything you crave—moist chocolate layers, velvety cheesecake filling, juicy cherries, and a silky chocolate ganache. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is an absolute showstopper. The combination of rich cocoa flavors with the tartness of cherries creates a balance that’s pure heaven in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • ½ cup chopped cherries

For the Whipped Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

  • ½ cup fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
  • Chocolate shavings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Gently fold in ½ cup cherry pie filling, distributing the cherries evenly.
  4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
  2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
  3. Gently fold in whipped cream and chopped cherries until fully combined.
  4. Refrigerate until ready to assemble the cake.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

  1. Heat ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
  2. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  3. Allow to cool slightly before pouring over the cake.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Topping

  1. Using a hand mixer, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cheesecake filling on top.
  2. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining cherry pie filling over it.
  3. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  4. Let set for 10 minutes, then pipe whipped topping around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Decorate with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings.
  2. Slice and serve this rich, chocolate-cherry masterpiece!

Tips & Variations

💡 Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix.
💡 Add extra crunch by sprinkling crushed chocolate cookies between the layers.
💡 For an adult twist, add 2 tbsp of cherry liqueur to the cake batter.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
  • Serve with vanilla ice cream or espresso for an extra indulgent experience.

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