Description
This Chocolate Cake with Cherry Pie Filling is a moist, rich, and plant-based dessert that combines velvety chocolate flavor with the bright, fruity sweetness of cherry filling. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this cake delivers a delightful flavor contrast and tender crumb, crafted entirely from natural, plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
Filling and Optional
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/2 cup plant-based chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures an even rise and smooth batter consistency.
- Mix Wet Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, whisk the plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract (natural) until well combined. This creates a smooth base that reacts perfectly with the dry ingredients.
- Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so keep it light and easy. Fold in the optional plant-based chocolate chips if desired.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Prepare the Cherry Pie Filling Layer: While the cakes cool, gently warm the cherry pie filling with the natural gelling agent dissolved in a small amount of water over low heat. Stir until it thickens slightly, then allow to cool to spread easily between layers without running.
- Assemble the Cake: Once cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of thickened cherry pie filling over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Optionally, finish with a dusting of cocoa powder or fresh cherries for garnish.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth blending and better crumb.
- Do not overmix the batter; stir gently and just until combined.
- Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer for accurate baking.
- Cool cakes completely before adding cherry filling to prevent sogginess.
- Wrap the cake tightly or cover with a cake dome to maintain moisture after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chocolate Cake, Cherry Pie Filling, Plant-Based Dessert, Vegan Cake, Moist Chocolate Cake, Cherry Chocolate Cake