Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake

Quick Summary

This indulgent dessert combines the lightness of angel food cake with the richness of chocolate, cherry, and fudge. Using Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate and cherry pie filling, this recipe delivers layers of flavor that are both decadent and airy—perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any celebration.

Published: April 2010 | Updated: October 2025

Chef’s Note

Few desserts balance elegance and simplicity like this one. You’ll love how the fudge and cherries mingle between soft chocolate cake layers, creating a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to assemble.

Prep & Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: As directed on cake mix package (approx. 35–40 minutes)
Chill Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (16-ounce) package angel food cake mix

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1-1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons hot fudge topping, divided

• 2 cups whipped topping, divided

• 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling, divided

• 1/8 tablespoon Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

Instructions

1. Prepare Cake: Combine dry cake mix and cocoa powder. Prepare batter according to package directions. Spoon evenly into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan.

2. Bake: Bake at 350°F as directed on package (about 35–40 minutes). Cool completely upside down, as directed on the box.

3. Slice the Cake: Once cooled, carefully remove cake from pan and slice horizontally in half.

4. Layer the Filling:

   • Place bottom half, cut side up, on a serving plate.

   • Spread with 3/4 cup fudge topping (unheated).

   • Add 1 cup whipped topping, then half the cherry pie filling mixed with tart cherry juice concentrate.

5. Add the Top Layer:

   • Place the top half of cake over filling, cut side down.

   • Spread 3/4 cup fudge topping across the top.

   • Add remaining whipped topping and remaining cherry pie filling.

6. Finish & Chill: Refrigerate for 1 hour. Just before serving, drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of fudge topping over the cherries for a glossy finish.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Fudge Warm-Up: If the fudge is too thick to spread, microwave briefly (5–10 seconds) to soften.

• Fresh Flair: Add a few fresh Traverse Bay Farms cherries on top for presentation.

• Lighter Option: Substitute low-fat whipped topping and reduced-sugar fudge sauce.

Nutritional Highlight

This dessert blends chocolate indulgence with the antioxidant benefits of tart cherries. Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate adds both flavor and a hint of natural tartness to balance the sweetness.

Behind the Recipe

Traverse Bay Farms brings the authentic taste of Michigan-grown cherries to your kitchen. With 38+ national food awards and a sediment-free guarantee, our Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate adds flavor and quality you can trust.

People Also Ask

Can I use chocolate cake mix instead of angel food?
Yes, but the result will be denser. Angel food cake gives this dessert its light, cloud-like texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate until serving.

Can I use homemade fudge sauce?
Absolutely—just cool it completely before layering.

Do I need to grease the pan?
No, angel food cake rises best in an ungreased tube pan.

Bring the Taste Home

Create this decadent Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake with Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate. Elegant enough for Valentine’s Day, simple enough for a weeknight indulgence, and always irresistibly delicious.