Chocolate Cherry Layered Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Sensational Chocolate Cherry Layered Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Crafting a decadent chocolate cherry layered ice cream cake promises pure indulgence for dessert enthusiasts.

Sweet cherries and rich chocolate create a mesmerizing combination that melts hearts instantly.

Cool layers of creamy goodness beckon with tempting elegance.

Summer celebrations demand something extraordinary beyond ordinary treats.

Sophisticated yet playful, this dessert captures the essence of delightful culinary creativity.

Chilling and assembling require minimal effort but deliver maximum impact.

Ingredients For Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

Cake Base:
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides a rich, chocolatey foundation for the ice cream cake.
Ice Cream Layer:
  • Cherry Ice Cream: A sweet and fruity layer that adds vibrant flavor and creamy texture to the dessert.
Toppings and Garnishes:
  • Chocolate Fudge Sauce: A rich, indulgent sauce that enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a luxurious drizzle.
  • Maraschino Cherries: Bright red, sweet cherries that provide a pop of color and additional cherry flavor.
  • Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping that adds a classic finishing touch to the ice cream cake.

Steps To Make Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Whip Up Chocolate Cake Base

Create the chocolate cake following the package directions. Use a 9×13 inch pan for baking. Let the cake cool down completely until it reaches room temperature.

Step 2: Spread Creamy Cherry Layer

Carefully spread the cherry ice cream across the entire surface of the cooled chocolate cake. Ensure the ice cream layer is smooth and even for a perfect dessert foundation.

Step 3: Drizzle Decadent Chocolate Sauce

Pour the chocolate fudge sauce over the cherry ice cream layer. Allow the sauce to create beautiful swirls and patterns across the surface.

Step 4: Sprinkle Fruity Cherry Bits

Scatter chopped maraschino cherries over the chocolate sauce. These vibrant red pieces will add bursts of flavor and visual appeal to the dessert.

Step 5: Crown with Fluffy Cream

Top the entire cake with a generous layer of whipped cream. Create soft peaks or a smooth surface depending on your preference.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the assembled cake in the freezer. Let it rest for a minimum of 4 hours to allow all layers to firm up and blend flavors perfectly. The waiting time will help the cake set into a delightful frozen treat.

Tips That Help With Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

  • Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding ice cream to prevent melting and maintain clean layers.
  • Soften the cherry ice cream slightly at room temperature for easier spreading without tearing the cake base.
  • Drain maraschino cherries well to avoid excess liquid that could make the cake soggy.
  • Use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste and lighter texture compared to store-bought versions.
  • Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its delicious flavor for up to a week.

Creative Twists On Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

  • Cherry Chocolate Brownie Delight: Replace the cake mix with a rich, fudgy brownie base for an intense chocolate experience.
  • No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Layer: Swap the cake layer with a creamy no-bake cheesecake base for a lighter texture.
  • Black Forest Inspired Cake: Add kirsch-soaked cherries and dark chocolate shavings for a traditional German dessert feel.
  • Almond Cherry Chocolate Dream: Incorporate almond extract into the cake mix and sprinkle toasted almond slivers on top for nutty depth.

What To Serve With Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

  • Pair Chocolate with Bold Red Wine: Select a rich, full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the deep chocolate flavors and enhance the cake's sweetness.
  • Create Cherry Cocktail Companion: Mix a classic Manhattan or Cherry Martini with premium bourbon or vodka to mirror the cake's fruity cherry notes and provide a sophisticated adult beverage pairing.
  • Match with Creamy Coffee Drink: Serve alongside a decadent espresso martini or Irish coffee to balance the dessert's sweetness and provide a complementary rich, smooth flavor profile.
  • Introduce Sparkling Dessert Beverage: Pair with a chilled champagne or prosecco to cut through the cake's richness and add a celebratory, effervescent touch that brightens the dessert experience.

How To Store Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

  • Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Keep in the freezer for up to 5 days.
  • Cut individual portions and wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for easy individual servings.
  • Remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.
  • For best texture, avoid microwaving. Instead, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to gently soften the ice cream and cake layers.

Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake FAQs

  • What ingredients make this ice cream cake special?

The combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy cherry ice cream, chocolate fudge sauce, and maraschino cherries creates a decadent dessert with layers of complementary flavors.

  • Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade chocolate cake, which might enhance the cake’s overall taste and texture.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this dessert?

You’ll need a 9×13 inch pan, an offset spatula for spreading ice cream evenly, and freezer space to set the cake.

  • How far in advance can I prepare this cake?

You can make this cake up to 3 days in advance, keeping it tightly covered in the freezer until ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

  • Create Showstopping Dessert: Impress guests with a stunning layered ice cream cake that looks professionally made but requires minimal baking skills.
  • Customize Flavor Adventure: Mix and match different ice cream flavors, sauces, and toppings to create your unique dessert experience every single time.
  • Perfect Party Pleaser: Ideal for celebrations like birthdays, summer gatherings, or family reunions where everyone craves a delicious cool treat that serves multiple people.
  • Minimal Prep, Maximum Enjoyment: Simple step-by-step instructions allow even novice bakers to craft a delectable dessert without complicated techniques or specialized equipment.
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Chocolate Cherry Layered Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Chocolate Cherry Layered Ice Cream Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent chocolate cherry layered ice cream cake brings summer’s sweetest dreams to life with rich chocolate and tangy cherries dancing through creamy frozen layers. Dessert enthusiasts will discover pure bliss in each spoonful of this irresistible chilled masterpiece.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 pints (946 milliliters) cherry ice cream

Toppings and Decorations:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) chocolate fudge sauce
  • 1 cup (237 milliliters) maraschino cherries, chopped
  • Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

  1. Craft the chocolate cake batter following package guidelines, utilizing a 9×13 inch pan. Bake until a toothpick emerges clean, approximately 25-30 minutes at 350°F.
  2. Allow the chocolate cake to cool entirely at room temperature, which prevents ice cream from melting during assembly.
  3. Gently spread softened cherry ice cream across the cake’s surface, creating a uniform layer about 1-inch thick.
  4. Drizzle warm chocolate fudge sauce in artistic zigzag patterns, ensuring even distribution over the ice cream.
  5. Delicately scatter finely chopped maraschino cherries across the fudge-covered surface, providing bursts of fruity texture.
  6. Pipe or spread a luxurious whipped cream topping, covering the entire dessert with elegant swirls.
  7. Transfer the assembled cake to the freezer, allowing it to solidify and meld flavors for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for optimal consistency.
  8. Before serving, let the cake rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to facilitate easier slicing and enhance flavor presentation.

Notes

  • Choose a high-quality chocolate cake mix for richer flavor and better texture.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely to prevent melting the ice cream when spreading.
  • Soften the cherry ice cream slightly at room temperature for easier spreading without tearing the cake.
  • Use well-drained maraschino cherries to prevent excess liquid from making the cake soggy.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free alternative.
  • Create a dairy-free option by using non-dairy whipped topping and vegan ice cream alternatives.
  • Enhance the cherry flavor by adding a splash of kirsch or cherry liqueur to the fudge sauce.
  • Prepare the cake in advance and freeze up to 3 days for a make-ahead dessert that impresses guests.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 45 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 58 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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