Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

The Best Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe Ever Made

Cool summer nights spark unexpected dessert adventures, and this cherry chocolate ice cream cake brings pure magic to your table.

Sweet cherries mingle with rich chocolate in a dreamy frozen creation.

Layers of creamy indulgence promise delightful surprises with every single bite.

Decadent textures dance between smooth ice cream and tender cake foundations.

Chocolate chips scattered throughout add playful crunch to each refreshing slice.

Nobody can resist this elegant yet approachable dessert that feels like a personal celebration.

Why Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Shines

  • Minimal Prep Magic: Requiring just a few simple steps, this dessert looks impressively gourmet while being surprisingly easy to assemble with minimal kitchen skills.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add personal touches like extra chocolate drizzle, different fruit toppings, or unique garnishes to make the recipe uniquely yours.
  • No-Bake Dessert Delight: Perfect for warm weather, this freezer-friendly cake eliminates complicated baking processes and keeps your kitchen cool while creating a showstopping treat.

Ingredients for Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Cake Base:
  • Chocolate Cake: A rich, moist layer that forms the foundation of the dessert.
Ice Cream Layer:
  • Cherry Ice Cream: A smooth, fruity frozen treat that adds a vibrant flavor to the cake.
Toppings and Garnishes:
  • Hot Fudge Sauce: A decadent chocolate sauce that adds richness and depth.
  • Whipped Cream, Maraschino Cherries, Chocolate Chips: Decorative elements that enhance the visual appeal and provide additional texture and flavor.

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare Springform Pan

Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper for easy cake removal.

This will help prevent sticking and make serving smoother.

Step 2: Create Chocolate Cake Base

Carefully place a pre-baked chocolate cake layer into the prepared springform pan.

Ensure the cake fits snugly and covers the entire bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Spread Luscious Cherry Ice Cream

Soften cherry ice cream at room temperature for a few minutes.

Gently spread the creamy ice cream in an even layer over the chocolate cake base, creating a smooth and uniform surface.

Step 4: Drizzle Decadent Chocolate Sauce

Warm hot fudge sauce slightly to make it more pourable.

Drizzle the rich chocolate sauce in a zigzag pattern across the cherry ice cream layer, creating an appetizing design.

Step 5: Freeze and Set

Place the cake in the freezer for 4 hours or until completely firm.

Cover the pan with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and protect the cake from absorbing other flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the cake from the freezer and carefully release the springform pan.

Top the cake with:
  • Fluffy whipped cream
  • Bright maraschino cherries
  • Sprinkled chocolate chips

Slice the cake with a warm knife for clean, beautiful servings.

Enjoy this delightful dessert immediately after garnishing.

Tips for Smooth Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Let cherry ice cream sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to achieve smooth, spreadable consistency without melting completely.
  • Place cake layer in freezer for 15 minutes before adding ice cream to create a barrier that stops moisture absorption.
  • Dip knife in hot water and wipe dry between each cut for elegant, smooth cake servings.
  • Use high-quality dark chocolate fudge sauce for richer, more complex taste profile.
  • Wrap cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in freezer for up to one week to maintain texture and freshness.

Flavor Twists for Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Vegan Cherry Chocolate Delight: Swap traditional cake with gluten-free chocolate sponge, use dairy-free cherry coconut ice cream, and replace hot fudge with vegan chocolate sauce.
  • Lighter Summer Version: Create a low-fat chocolate angel food cake base, use reduced-sugar cherry frozen yogurt, and top with fresh cherry compote instead of maraschino cherries.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Utilize almond flour chocolate cake, substitute regular ice cream with certified gluten-free cherry gelato, and garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
  • No-Sugar Alternative: Craft cake with almond flour and stevia, incorporate sugar-free cherry ice cream, and drizzle with sugar-free chocolate syrup for a diabetic-friendly dessert.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Sweet Summer Picnic Centerpiece: Showcase this decadent cake as the star dessert at outdoor gatherings, surrounded by fresh cherries and chocolate shavings.
  • Romantic Date Night Dessert: Slice elegantly and plate with a dusting of cocoa powder, creating a sophisticated and indulgent finale to a special dinner.
  • Celebration Showstopper: Decorate with additional chocolate curls, whole maraschino cherries, and a light drizzle of cherry liqueur for an impressive birthday or anniversary treat.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Cut into smaller squares for children's parties, garnish with colorful sprinkles, and serve on fun dessert plates for maximum excitement.

Best Ways to Store Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

  • Store covered with plastic wrap in the freezer for up to 5 days, ensuring an airtight seal to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor integrity.
  • Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for convenient single-serving portions.
  • Remove cake from freezer 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing it to soften slightly at room temperature for easier cutting and optimal texture.
  • Once thawed, consume within 24 hours to preserve the cake's creamy consistency and prevent ice crystal formation.

FAQs

  • What ingredients give this cake its unique flavor?

The combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy cherry ice cream, and hot fudge sauce creates a decadent dessert with layers of complementary flavors.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for up to a week, making it perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this cake?

You’ll need a springform pan to easily remove and serve the cake, ensuring clean and beautiful slices every time.

  • Is this recipe suitable for chocolate and cherry lovers?

Absolutely! The dessert combines the classic pairing of chocolate and cherry, making it a dream come true for those who love these flavors.

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Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sweet summer memories melt into this cherry chocolate ice cream cake, blending rich cocoa layers with luscious cherry swirls. Creamy indulgence and nostalgic flavors combine, promising a delightful dessert that pulls you into pure culinary bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 chocolate cake layer
  • 1.5 quarts (1.4 liters) cherry ice cream

Sauce and Topping:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) hot fudge sauce
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) whipped cream

Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) maraschino cherries

Instructions

  1. Position the chocolate cake base centrally in a springform pan, ensuring an even foundation for the dessert.
  2. Allow cherry ice cream to soften slightly, then carefully spread a smooth, uniform layer over the cake foundation, covering the entire surface.
  3. Generously cascade rich hot fudge sauce across the ice cream, creating an elegant marbled pattern that will enhance flavor complexity.
  4. Transfer the assembled cake to the freezer, maintaining a consistent temperature of 0°F, and allow it to solidify completely for approximately 4 hours.
  5. Remove the cake from the freezer and artfully garnish the surface with billowy whipped cream, vibrant maraschino cherries, and delicate chocolate chip fragments.
  6. Release the springform pan’s clasp, revealing the stunning layered dessert, and slice into clean, precise portions for serving.
  7. Present immediately to capture the optimal texture and temperature, ensuring each guest experiences the perfect balance of chocolatey, fruity decadence.

Notes

  • Ensure cake layer is completely cooled before adding ice cream to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity.
  • Soften ice cream at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to make spreading easier and create a smooth, even layer.
  • Use high-quality chocolate fudge sauce for richer flavor and better texture when drizzled over ice cream.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute chocolate cake with gluten-free cake mix or flourless chocolate cake base.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Freezing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 440 kcal
  • Sugar: 45 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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