Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake

Name: Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup chocolate chunks; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

I absolutely adore this Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake! The combination of sweet cherries and rich chocolate creates a dessert that's both indulgent and refreshing. Every bite offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether shared at a gathering or enjoyed on a quiet afternoon, this cake satisfies my cravings for something unique and delicious. I can't wait for you to try it; I promise you'll fall in love with every crumb!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:16:09.521Z

When I first decided to create a Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake, I wanted to experiment with ingredients I love. I found that using fresh cherries not only enhanced the flavor but also added a delightful juiciness to the cake, making it moist and bursting with flavor. I also incorporated chocolate chunks that melted during baking, giving every slice that extra richness.

What truly sets this cake apart is the crumble topping. I chose a mixture of oats, brown sugar, and butter to create a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. I find that chilling the crumble in the fridge before baking makes it even crisper. It’s a simple tip that elevates the entire dessert!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet cherries
Crunchy crumble topping that adds texture
Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dessert

The Perfect Cherry Addition

Fresh cherries are a star ingredient in this cake, providing not only a vibrant color but also a delightful tartness that balances out the rich chocolate. When choosing cherries, look for plump and firm ones, as they will maintain their shape during baking. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can use frozen ones; just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture that can affect the cake's texture.

Pitting the cherries can be a little tricky, but using a cherry pitter makes the task much easier and quicker. If you do not have one, a small knife or the end of a wooden spoon can be used to remove the pit. Just be cautious! Ensuring the cherries are halved will allow their juices to meld beautifully with the chocolate during baking.

Mastering the Crumble Topping

The crumble topping not only adds texture but also a delightful crunch to every bite of this cake. Mixing the oats, brown sugar, and flour with melted butter is crucial; it should resemble coarse crumbs that will bake into a golden, crispy layer. If you find the mixture too dry, you can add a teaspoon or two of water or additional melted butter for moisture.

For a twist, consider adding nuts or spices to the crumble mixture. Chopped almonds or pecans can enhance the flavor and add an extra crunch, while a pinch of nutmeg can bring a warm spiciness that pairs wonderfully with both chocolate and cherries.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake.

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup chocolate chunks

For the Crumble Topping

1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake.

Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

Combine Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, then stir in vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk. Fold in the cherries and chocolate chunks.

Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

Assemble the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Your Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake is now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

Once the Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake has cooled completely, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. You can keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container to keep it moist; it will last up to a week in the refrigerator.

If you're looking to freeze this cake, slice it first for easy thawing. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave it. Just thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, but serving it warm adds an alluring gooeyness from the chocolate chunks. For an extra luscious experience, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors.

Garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh cherries on top can elevate its presentation, especially for special occasions. Pairing it with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine can create a delightful contrast to the cake’s sweet and rich profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and store it until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use a dairy-free butter substitute or applesauce for a healthier option.