Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the indulgent combination of cherries and chocolate, especially when paired with the creamy decadence of ice cream. This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is the ultimate frozen dessert, featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, luscious cherry ice cream, and a silky chocolate ganache. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress.

I first discovered this delightful treat when looking for a way to elevate a classic ice cream cake. By adding fresh cherries and a homemade chocolate base, I created a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also looks absolutely stunning. The contrast of deep chocolate with vibrant cherry pink makes for a show-stopping presentation.

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite frozen dessert. This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

First, it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert. Since it needs time to freeze between layers, you can prepare it in advance and simply pull it out when you’re ready to serve.

Second, the flavor combination is irresistible. The rich, velvety chocolate cake perfectly complements the creamy, slightly tart cherry ice cream, creating a balanced and delightful taste in every bite.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap in different types of chocolate, experiment with various ice cream flavors, or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.

Best of all, this dessert is an absolute showstopper. With its gorgeous layers and decadent toppings, it’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering, from birthdays to dinner parties.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting this delectable dessert.

The chocolate cake base provides a rich, sturdy foundation for the layers. Using high-quality cocoa powder ensures a deep chocolate flavor, while adding sour cream keeps the cake moist and tender, even after freezing.

Cherry ice cream is the star of this dessert. While you can use store-bought cherry ice cream, I highly recommend using a premium brand with real cherry chunks for the best texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own cherry ice cream can take this cake to the next level.

The chocolate ganache adds a luxurious finishing touch. Made with heavy cream and dark chocolate, this silky topping drapes beautifully over the frozen cake, adding extra richness and an elegant touch.

Fresh cherries not only enhance the flavor but also make for a stunning garnish. Opt for fresh, sweet cherries when in season, or use frozen ones if fresh cherries aren’t available.

For special equipment, you’ll need a springform pan to help layer and freeze the cake properly, ensuring clean and easy removal.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Creating this mouthwatering Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is easier than it looks. Follow these steps for a perfectly layered dessert.

Start by baking the chocolate cake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a springform pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, sour cream, and melted butter. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Once the cake is cool, spread a generous layer of softened cherry ice cream over it. To make this step easier, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before spreading. Smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

While the cake is freezing, prepare the chocolate ganache. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering, then pour over chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.

Remove the cake from the freezer and carefully pour the ganache over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. For a dramatic effect, use an offset spatula to gently spread the ganache in a smooth layer. Return the cake to the freezer for another hour to set.

Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings. Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier. Enjoy!

Storage Options

Storing this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake properly ensures that it maintains its delicious flavors and textures.

For short-term storage, keep the cake in the freezer, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 5 days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

If you plan to store it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime without thawing the entire cake.

When ready to serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.

Swap out the cherry ice cream for other flavors like vanilla, raspberry, or even cookies and cream for a fun twist. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile to the dessert.

For a crunchier texture, add mix-ins like crushed chocolate cookies, toasted almonds, or mini chocolate chips to the ice cream layer before freezing.

Experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache. Milk chocolate will create a sweeter, creamier topping, while bittersweet chocolate will enhance the richness of the cake.

If you prefer a no-bake version, replace the chocolate cake with a layer of crushed chocolate cookies mixed with melted butter. This will create a delicious and effortless crust.

No fresh cherries? No problem! Use cherry preserves or maraschino cherries for a similar burst of cherry flavor without the seasonal limitation.

This cake is all about creativity—feel free to experiment and make it your own. No matter how you customize it, one thing is certain: this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake will be a hit!

Print