Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

The Dreamy Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe You Need

Crafting a decadent cherry chocolate ice cream cake brings pure dessert magic right to your kitchen.

Layers of rich, velvety chocolate blend seamlessly with sweet, tangy cherries.

Cool summer afternoons beg for something spectacular like this frozen delight.

Creamy textures and intense flavor combinations make every slice an adventure.

Seasonal cherries add a burst of natural sweetness that complements deep chocolate notes.

Minimal ingredients and simple techniques mean anyone can create this impressive treat.

Your guests will be amazed by the elegant yet approachable dessert that looks professionally crafted.

Prepare to wow everyone with this irresistible frozen masterpiece.

What Makes Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Awesome

  • Craft a Stunning Dessert: Impress guests with a show-stopping cake that combines rich chocolate and sweet cherries in one decadent treat.
  • Master Easy Layering Technique: Create professional-looking desserts with simple step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow, no baking expertise required.
  • Perfect for Special Celebrations: Elevate birthday parties, summer gatherings, or holiday events with this crowd-pleasing frozen dessert that looks and tastes sophisticated.
  • No-Bake Convenience: Enjoy a luxurious dessert without extensive kitchen skills, using pre-made cake and store-bought ice cream for minimal preparation time.

What’s in Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Cake Base:
  • Chocolate Cake: A rich, moist base that provides the structural foundation for the ice cream cake.
Ice Cream Layer:
  • Cherry Ice Cream: A creamy, fruity layer that adds a vibrant flavor and smooth texture to the dessert.
Fruit Topping:
  • Fresh Cherries: Chopped cherries that provide bursts of natural sweetness and additional texture.
Chocolate Coating:
  • Chocolate Ganache: A glossy, rich chocolate sauce that creates a decadent outer layer.
Garnish:
  • Whipped Cream, Chocolate Shavings: A light, airy topping that adds visual appeal and extra indulgence to the cake.

How to Prepare Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Divide Chocolate Cake

Carefully slice the chocolate cake horizontally into two equal layers using a sharp serrated knife.

This creates a perfect base for layering your delicious ice cream cake.

Step 2: Create First Ice Cream Layer

Place the bottom cake layer into a springform pan.

Soften the cherry ice cream slightly and spread it evenly across the cake layer, ensuring complete coverage from edge to edge.

Step 3: Add Cherry Texture

Scatter freshly chopped cherries over the ice cream layer, distributing them uniformly for bursts of fruity flavor throughout the cake.

Step 4: Complete Cake Layering

Gently position the second cake layer on top of the cherry-studded ice cream, pressing down lightly to secure the layers together.

Step 5: Initial Freezing

Transfer the assembled cake to the freezer and allow it to set completely.

This typically takes about 4 hours, ensuring the ice cream becomes firm and stable.

Step 6: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

Warm the chocolate ganache until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Carefully drizzle the ganache over the frozen cake, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Final Freezing

Return the cake to the freezer, allowing the ganache to set and create a glossy chocolate shell.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Before serving, pipe delicate whipped cream around the edges and sprinkle with elegant chocolate shavings.

Remove from the springform pan and slice into delectable portions.

Tips to Get Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Right

  • Use a long serrated knife to cut the chocolate cake into even layers for a professional, symmetrical look.
  • Let the cherry ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to achieve a spreadable consistency without melting completely.
  • Ensure the cake is completely frozen between layers to prevent messy mixing and maintain clean, distinct layers.
  • Heat chocolate ganache gently to prevent burning, stirring constantly for a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Experiment with fresh cherries, chocolate curls, or mint leaves for an eye-catching and delicious presentation.

Fun Ideas with Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace chocolate cake with almond flour or gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Cherry Chocolate Dream: Swap traditional ice cream with coconut milk-based cherry ice cream and use dairy-free chocolate ganache.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Option: Substitute regular cake with sugar-free chocolate cake and use stevia-sweetened cherry ice cream.
  • Nutty Cherry Chocolate Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pistachios between cake layers for extra texture and nutty flavor.

What Goes with Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Festive Dessert Centerpiece: Serve this showstopping cake as the grand finale at birthday parties or summer gatherings, creating instant wow moments for guests.
  • Romantic Date Night Treat: Slice into elegant wedges for a decadent dessert that impresses your partner, perfect for anniversaries or special evening celebrations.
  • Family Sharing Delight: Cut into smaller portions for kids' dessert night, letting everyone enjoy the rich combination of chocolate and cherry flavors together.
  • Make-Ahead Party Perfection: Prepare the cake a day in advance, storing in the freezer, which allows stress-free entertaining and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Saving Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Correctly

  • Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep in the freezer for up to 5 days to maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Remove the cake from the freezer 15-20 minutes before serving. Let it sit at room temperature to soften slightly, making slicing easier.
  • Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean, smooth slices. Serve immediately after slicing to prevent melting.
  • Cover the cake with a layer of plastic wrap directly touching the surface, then add an additional layer of aluminum foil to protect against ice crystals and preserve freshness.

FAQs

  • Can I use store-bought cake instead of baking my own?

Yes, a pre-made chocolate cake works perfectly and saves time in this recipe.

  • How ripe should the cherries be for this dessert?

Choose fresh, deep red cherries that are firm and sweet for the best flavor and texture.

  • Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan helps easily remove the cake without damaging its layers, but a regular cake pan with parchment paper can also work.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake up to 3 days in advance and keep it well-covered in the freezer until serving.

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Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy cherry chocolate ice cream cake blends Italian dessert traditions with summer indulgence. Rich chocolate layers and sweet cherry compote create a delightful cold treat you’ll savor with each refreshing bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 chocolate cake (baked and cooled)
  • 1 quart (0.95 liters) cherry ice cream (softened)
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) fresh cherries (pitted and chopped)

Sauce and Topping:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) chocolate ganache

Garnish:

  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Using a serrated knife, carefully divide the chocolate cake horizontally into two equal layers, ensuring clean and precise cuts.
  2. Position the first cake layer at the bottom of a springform pan, creating a stable base for the ice cream.
  3. Allow the cherry ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature, then spread it evenly across the cake layer, creating a smooth and uniform surface.
  4. Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped cherries over the ice cream layer, distributing them for maximum flavor and texture.
  5. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the cherries, pressing lightly to secure it in place.
  6. Transfer the assembled cake to the freezer and allow it to set for 4-5 hours, or until the ice cream is completely firm and stable.
  7. Prepare warm chocolate ganache and carefully pour it over the frozen cake, using an offset spatula to spread it evenly and create a glossy, smooth finish.
  8. Return the cake to the freezer for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the ganache to set and harden.
  9. Before serving, decorate the cake with delicate swirls of whipped cream and elegant chocolate shavings for a professional and appetizing presentation.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake layers are completely cooled before assembling to prevent ice cream from melting too quickly.
  • Soften the ice cream at room temperature for 5-10 minutes for easier spreading without creating air pockets.
  • Use fresh, pitted cherries for the best flavor and texture, chopping them into small, uniform pieces.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the chocolate cake with a gluten-free cake or flourless chocolate base.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Freezing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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