If you’re craving a rich, chocolatey dessert but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this 2-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Cake is the perfect solution. Made with just a box of chocolate cake mix and a can of cherry pie filling, this incredibly easy cake delivers a moist, fudgy texture with delicious bursts of sweet cherry flavor.
There’s no need for eggs, oil, butter, or complicated preparation. Simply mix the two ingredients, spread the batter into a baking pan, and let the oven do the work. It’s an old-fashioned, budget-friendly dessert that tastes like something much more elaborate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only two ingredients: No long shopping list or extra baking ingredients.
- Quick preparation: Mix everything together in just minutes.
- Rich chocolate flavor: Chocolate cake and sweet cherries make a wonderful combination.
- Moist texture: Cherry pie filling helps create a soft, tender cake.
- Perfect for sharing: Great for potlucks, birthdays, holidays, and family desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix: Devil’s food or chocolate fudge cake mix works especially well.
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling: Adds sweetness, moisture, and delicious cherry pieces.
That’s all you need for the basic cake!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the chocolate cake mix into a large mixing bowl.
Add the entire can of cherry pie filling, including the cherries and filling.
Stir until the dry cake mix is completely moistened and no large dry pockets remain. The batter will be thick and somewhat lumpy because of the cherries.
Step 3: Spread the Batter
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Use a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Smooth the top as much as possible.
Step 4: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30–35 minutes.
Check the center with a toothpick. It should come out without wet batter, although a few moist crumbs are fine.
Avoid overbaking, since the cake is meant to stay moist.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with an optional scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Helpful Tips
- Choose the right cake mix: Devil’s food cake mix creates a particularly rich chocolate flavor.
- Don’t add extra liquid: The cherry pie filling provides the moisture needed for this simple recipe.
- Mix thoroughly: Make sure all the dry cake mix is moistened.
- Use a 9-by-13-inch pan: This helps the cake bake evenly.
- Check early: Oven temperatures vary, so begin checking around 30 minutes.
- Allow it to cool: Cooling helps the cake set and makes slicing easier.
Easy Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Brownie Cake: Use a chocolate fudge cake mix for a denser, richer result.
- Black Forest Style: Add optional whipped cream and chocolate shavings when serving.
- Extra Chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the batter before baking.
- Festive Dessert: Decorate the cooled cake with whipped topping and maraschino cherries.
These are optional additions and are not included in the original two-ingredient recipe.
What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Cake
This cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh cherries, or a cup of hot coffee.
For a special dessert, serve each slice slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm chocolate cake and cold ice cream is irresistible.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, cover the cake and keep it in a cool place for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for approximately 10–15 seconds, adjusting as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really make a cake with only two ingredients?
Yes! The chocolate cake mix and cherry pie filling work together to create a simple cake batter. The filling supplies moisture, while the cake mix provides the dry ingredients and leavening.
Do I need to add eggs or oil?
No. This particular recipe is designed to use only the two listed ingredients. Adding eggs, oil, or water will change the texture and proportions.
Can I use another flavor of cake mix?
Yes. Chocolate fudge and devil’s food are especially good, but other chocolate varieties can also work.
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Yes, provided it has a similar consistency and quantity to a standard 21-ounce can. Very runny filling may affect the baking time and texture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The center should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the cake should come out without wet batter. A few moist crumbs are normal.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it a day ahead, allow it to cool completely, and cover it tightly. Add any optional toppings shortly before serving.
2-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 20–30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55–70 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking pan.
- Combine chocolate cake mix and cherry pie filling in a large bowl.
- Stir until all the dry cake mix is moistened.
- Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, checking the center for doneness.
- Cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes: Do not add eggs, oil, or water. The cherry pie filling provides the moisture for this two-ingredient cake.
Final Thoughts
This 2-Ingredient Chocolate Cherry Cake proves that homemade desserts don’t have to be complicated. With one box of chocolate cake mix and one can of cherry pie filling, you can create a wonderfully moist, chocolatey treat with sweet cherry flavor in every bite.
It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and perfect whenever you need a quick dessert that feels special without all the extra work.