There's nothing quite like the combination of cherries and chocolate, especially in the form of a decadent ice cream cake. This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake layers rich, fudgy chocolate cake with creamy cherry ice cream, all topped off with a luscious chocolate ganache. It's the perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when you're craving something indulgent.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a way to elevate a classic chocolate cake for a summer gathering. The addition of cherry ice cream transformed it into a refreshing, show-stopping dessert that quickly became a family favorite. Now, every time I make it, it brings back memories of warm evenings and happy smiles.

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible dessert. This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a dream come true for chocolate and cherry lovers alike.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. While it looks fancy, you only need a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience while it sets in the freezer.

Not only is this cake stunning, but it's also versatile. You can use homemade or store-bought cherry ice cream, and you can even switch up the flavors to customize it to your liking.

It's the perfect balance of rich and refreshing. The fudgy chocolate cake pairs beautifully with the creamy cherry ice cream, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Plus, it's a make-ahead dessert. Since it needs time to freeze, you can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each adding to its delightful taste and texture.

The chocolate cake forms the base of this dessert. A rich, moist cake is key to ensuring a fudgy texture that holds up well against the ice cream layers. I recommend using a homemade chocolate cake, but a high-quality boxed mix works in a pinch.

Cherry ice cream is the star of the show. Opt for a good-quality brand with real cherry pieces for the best flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own cherry ice cream from scratch!

The chocolate ganache is what ties everything together. Made with just heavy cream and dark chocolate, this silky topping adds an extra layer of indulgence. Be sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best results.

You'll also need whipped cream and maraschino cherries for garnish. The lightness of the whipped cream balances the richness of the cake, while the cherries add a pop of color and an extra burst of fruity sweetness.

Lastly, a springform pan is ideal for assembling this cake. It makes it easy to layer everything and remove the finished cake without a mess.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Creating this stunning dessert is simpler than it looks. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Start by baking your chocolate cake in a springform pan. Let it cool completely before moving on to the next step. This is important to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when layered on top.

Once the cake is cool, spread a generous layer of cherry ice cream over it. Let the ice cream soften slightly for easy spreading, but don’t let it get too melted. Smooth the top and place the cake in the freezer for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Prepare the chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream until hot but not boiling, then pouring it over chopped dark chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the ice cream layer.

Return the cake to the freezer for another 2 hours, or until completely set. When you're ready to serve, remove it from the springform pan and garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries for a finishing touch.

For best results, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows for easier cutting while still keeping the ice cream firm.

Storage Options

This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake keeps beautifully in the freezer. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to a week.

For individual servings, slice the cake and wrap each piece separately before freezing. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever a craving strikes without having to thaw the entire cake.

When ready to serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes slicing easier while still keeping the layers intact.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Swap out cherry ice cream for vanilla, raspberry, or even mint chocolate chip for a different flavor twist.
Add a layer of cherry preserves between the cake and ice cream for an extra burst of fruitiness.
If you prefer a crunch, sprinkle chopped chocolate or cookie crumbles between the layers.
Make it dairy-free by using vegan chocolate cake and dairy-free ice cream.
Drizzle caramel or white chocolate sauce over the top for an added layer of sweetness.

No matter how you customize it, this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is bound to be a hit. So go ahead—experiment and make it your own!