Description
Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake
This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is the perfect combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate. It’s an easy-to-make, delicious dessert that will help you get through the week. The upside-down cake concept allows the cherries to caramelize beautifully at the bottom, creating a gorgeous, juicy topping when flipped. Whether you use fresh or frozen cherries, this cake is sure to bring joy to any occasion!
Cherry layer: 2 cups fresh/frozen pitted cherries, ⅓ cup sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch
Chocolate cake: 1 cup sugar, 1 cup flour, ⅓ cup cocoa, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt, 2 eggs, ½ cup soured milk, ½ cup coffee, ¼ cup oil, ½ tsp vanilla
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease & line a 9-inch pan.
2. Mix cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Spread in pan.
3. Combine all cake ingredients, mix for 2 mins. Pour over cherries.
4. Bake 30-35 mins. Cool before flipping.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 300/serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release. In a medium bowl, toss the pitted cherries with the ⅓ cup of sugar and cornstarch until evenly coated. Spread this mixture into a single layer at the bottom of your prepared pan. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, soured milk (or buttermilk), cooled coffee, oil, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing on medium speed for a full 2 minutes to build structure. Carefully pour the batter over the cherry layer, spreading it evenly. Bake on the center rack for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the cherry layer) comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be elevated with simple pairings. Serve slightly warm for the best texture and flavor. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melts beautifully into the warm cherries. For a decadent touch, drizzle individual slices with a dark chocolate ganache or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Prepare your pan and create a cherry-sugar-cornstarch layer at the bottom. Mix the chocolate cake batter separately until smooth. Pour the batter over the cherries. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized cherry topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned cherries? Yes, but drain and pat them very dry to prevent a soggy cake. You may also need to reduce the added sugar slightly.
What can I use instead of soured milk? Combine ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make ½ cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Plain buttermilk is also a perfect substitute.
Why is my cake sticking to the pan? Ensure you grease the pan well and use parchment paper. Letting the cake cool for the recommended time allows the structure to set before flipping.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely. Bake and cool the cake completely, then store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. The flavors often improve.
Is the coffee flavor strong? No, the coffee primarily enhances the depth of the chocolate without adding a distinct coffee taste. You can use water or more milk as a substitute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, as this can lead to a tough cake. Do not skip the parchment paper lining—it’s crucial for a clean flip. Flipping the cake while it’s still piping hot will cause it to break; patience during cooling is key. Finally, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper rise.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake is a stunning yet straightforward dessert that delivers impressive results. The contrast between the tart, caramelized cherries and the moist, rich chocolate cake is truly irresistible. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can confidently create a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any gathering or a special weeknight treat. Enjoy the baking process and the delightful outcome!