If you’re searching for a dessert that balances pure indulgence and playful nostalgia, look no further than the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake. Imagine biting into layers of moist, chocolatey cake, tart cherry pie filling, and a luscious swirl of sweetened cream cheese—all crowned with a glossy cherry glaze and pillowy whipped cream. This irresistible treat isn’t just gorgeous on your table; it’s practically guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any gathering, from birthdays to cozy Sunday dinners. With a simple set of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable.

Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays its own vibrant role in the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake, from the decadent chocolate base to the layer of velvety cheese and the pop of cherries. Gather these easy-to-find staples, and you’re half way to bundt cake bliss.

Chocolate cake mix: The shortcut to an ultra-moist, intensely chocolatey foundation—no need to measure cocoa or flour.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb tender and moist, while giving the cake a slight richness.
Eggs: Provide the structure and fluffiness you want in both the cake and the filling.
Water: Helps activate the cake mix, making the batter just the right consistency for swirling.
Cherry pie filling: Adds juicy bursts of tangy-sweet cherries, plus a beautiful ruby-red finish on top.
Cream cheese: Softened for swirling into a rich, creamy layer that contrasts perfectly with the deep chocolate.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without overpowering the delicate tang.
Vanilla extract: Lends a subtle warmth that ties together the cake and creamy filling.
Whipped cream (optional): For extra flair and a cool, cloud-like topping—you can’t go wrong!

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then generously grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan. This simple prep step ensures your Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake will slip out beautifully, keeping every swoop and swirl intact. Don’t rush this part—get into all the nooks and crannies!

Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat everything together for about two minutes until smooth and slightly fluffy—this is the base that brings all the flavors together. Next, gently fold in half of the cherry pie filling. Be delicate here; you want luscious streaks of cherry throughout, not a fully blended batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, one egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and lump-free. Don’t shortcut the softening, as room-temperature cream cheese whips up silky smooth, creating that signature cheesecake swirl in your Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Pour half of your chocolate-cherry batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture right over the top—careful not to touch the edges of the pan for the prettiest, neatest layers. Top with the remaining chocolate batter, gently spreading to cover the creamy center.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a cake that springs back when gently touched, with a toothpick coming out clean from the chocolate portion. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell like pure happiness wrapped in chocolate and cherries!

Step 6: Cool and Unmold

Let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes—just long enough to set up, but not so long that it sticks. Invert onto a serving plate and let it cool completely. This prevent the decadent cream cheese layer from breaking apart and helps each slice hold its stunning marbled layers.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches

Spoon the rest of the cherry pie filling over the cooled cake, letting the ruby cherries tumble into the grooves. For the grand finale, scatter or pipe swirls of whipped cream just before serving. Your Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake will look every bit as luscious as it tastes!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake

Garnishes

Top your cake with generous spoonfuls of the reserved cherry pie filling, letting some of the cherry syrup drizzle down the sides for an irresistible look. Add piped or dolloped whipped cream for a bakery-style finish. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a dusting of powdered sugar takes things over the top, making each slice as photogenic as it is scrumptious.

Side Dishes

Pair a wedge of Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream or a puddle of warm chocolate sauce for total decadence. A fresh cup of coffee or an after-dinner espresso pulls the whole dessert course together, while tart berries on the side provide a bright, fresh note.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, slice the cake and serve each piece in individual dessert glasses, layered with extra whipped cream and chopped cherries. Or go mini—bake the cake in smaller Bundt molds for personal-sized treats. During the holidays, garnish with sugared cranberries and mint leaves for eye-popping color. The Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake loves to dress up for every occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Thanks to its creamy center and juicy cherry topping, the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake stays moist and delicious for up to four days. If you’ve added whipped cream, just keep in mind it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this cake! For best results, wrap well-cooled slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag or airtight container. Store the cherry topping separately for up to two months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight and add your fresh cherry topping and whipped cream before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm (highly recommended for chilly nights!), microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds until just barely warmed through. Don’t forget to add the cherry topping and a swirl of whipped cream after reheating to keep every element fresh and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade chocolate cake batter instead of cake mix?

Absolutely! If you have a go-to chocolate cake recipe, just prepare the batter as usual and follow the same steps for layering with cherries and cream cheese. The Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is flexible, and homemade batter can add a personal touch.

Which cherries work best if I want to make my own filling?

If you’d like to skip canned filling, try using fresh or frozen tart cherries simmered with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. You want a filling that’s rich and slightly tangy to contrast with the chocolate cake and creamy center.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix—most brands swap one-for-one with regular mixes. Double-check your other ingredients just to be safe, and you can still enjoy every decadent bite of Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake.

What’s the best way to ensure the cream cheese layer stays neat?

Always spoon the cream cheese mixture gently over the first layer of chocolate batter, keeping it away from the edges of the pan. This gives you that classic cream cheese swirl in the center without any cheese leaking out to the sides or bottom.

How long should I chill the cake before serving?

Let the cake cool fully at room temperature, then chill for at least one hour if you want sharp, clean layers when you slice. Chilling also helps the flavors meld, making the Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake even more luscious.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of this Cherry Chocolate Cream Cheese Bundt Cake feels like a celebration—whether you’re making it for a special event or just because you’re craving something extraordinary. Cozy, decadent, and bursting with cherry-chocolate magic, this is the kind of dessert that turns everyday moments into something worth savoring. Don’t wait for an excuse—bake it, share it, and enjoy every creamy, cherry-filled slice!