Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake

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

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

I absolutely love this Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake! The combination of tart cherries and rich chocolate creates a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. Baking has always been my happy place, and this cake brings back joyful memories of family gatherings. The crumble topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a mix of textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will surely impress your friends and family. Let me guide you through the process of creating this delicious masterpiece!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:39:27.763Z

Baking this Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake has become a cherished tradition for me. The first time I combined cherries and chocolate, I was amazed at how well they complemented each other. Returning to this recipe time and again, I’ve learned that using fresh cherries really elevates the flavor. I prefer to mix them in just before the batter goes into the oven to keep them intact and juicy.

What sets this cake apart is the contrast of textures—the rich, moist chocolate cake paired with the crunchy crumble topping creates a perfect balance. I recommend serving it slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Crispy crumble topping adds delightful texture
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to festive

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using fresh cherries in this Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake is crucial for achieving that tart flavor that complements the rich chocolate. Look for cherries that are bright and firm; this ensures they have the best flavor and texture. If fresh cherries are out of season, you could substitute with frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

The cocoa powder you choose also plays a significant role in the cake's overall flavor. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a deeper, more intense chocolate experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try a dark chocolate cocoa powder or even a specialty flavored variety to add a unique twist to this classic recipe.

Perfecting the Crumble Topping

The texture of the crumble topping is key for elevating this cake. For a crunchy topping, it's essential to cut the cold butter into the dry mixture until it forms coarse crumbs; this technique ensures that the butter stays cold until baking, which is what creates that delightful texture. If you find your crumble is too wet, try adding a little more oats or flour to achieve the desired consistency.

Feel free to customize the crumble topping by adding nuts or different spices. Chopped almonds or walnuts can add a delicious nuttiness, while a pinch of nutmeg can introduce a warm, cozy flavor. Just be cautious with the added ingredients as they can affect the overall baking time.

Troubleshooting and Storage Tips

If your cake sinks in the middle after baking, it could be a sign that the batter was overmixed or that there wasn’t enough leavening agent. To remedy this, ensure you just mix until combined, and let the batter rest for a short while before baking. Also, don’t open the oven door before the cake has finished baking, as this could introduce cold air that affects the rising.

To store leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze slices individually; just ensure they are well wrapped. When reheating, place slices in the oven at a low temperature for about 10 minutes to restore some of the original texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delectable Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake!

For the Cake

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

For the Crumble Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Once you have everything ready, you're set to create this delightful cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake!

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixer bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the fresh cherries until just combined.

Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy every bite!

Enjoy your marvelous Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. You can substitute frozen cherries if fresh ones are unavailable, but drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This Cherry Chocolate Crumble Cake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For an extra indulgent treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, allowing it to melt slightly and create a rich sauce. Alternatively, a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can enhance its appeal at gatherings.

For more casual occasions, slice the cake into cubes and serve it with coffee or tea. This portioned approach makes it easy for guests to enjoy without the formalities of plating. Plus, it showcases the beautiful layers of texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Options

To save time, you can make the cake batter a day in advance. Simply prepare the batter, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature before pouring it into the pan, and proceed with the crumble topping as usual.

If you plan to freeze the cake, the best approach is to bake it fully, then cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen up to three months and thawed in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Flavor Variations

For a twist on the classic flavor profile, try adding a splash of almond or orange extract to the batter. These flavors pair beautifully with cherries and enhance the overall experience without overpowering the chocolate. Just a teaspoon goes a long way!

You could also experiment by swapping out some of the flour for ground nuts, such as almond flour, which adds a unique taste and texture. If you enjoy spices, consider adding a touch of cardamom or ginger to the crumble topping for an unexpected but delightful kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.