Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Dreamy Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe for Sweet Smiles

Sweet summer memories dance through this luscious cherry chocolate ice cream cake that promises pure decadence.

Layers of rich chocolate meld seamlessly with tart cherries, creating a dessert beyond ordinary expectations.

Cold and creamy textures invite playful indulgence with every delightful bite.

Chocolate’s deep intensity perfectly complements the bright, vibrant cherry notes.

Elegant yet approachable, this dessert feels like a celebration on a plate.

Each slice delivers a symphony of flavors that whispers luxury and comfort.

Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake with Rich Layers

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace cookie crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour-based cookies to create a celiac-friendly base.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute dairy ice cream with coconut milk-based ice cream, use vegan butter for crust, and swap whipped cream with coconut whipped cream.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free ice cream flavors, replace cherry pie filling with fresh cherry compote made with stevia, and reduce powdered sugar in whipped topping.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Select non-dairy ice cream brands like almond milk or oat milk based ice creams, use coconut oil instead of butter, and top with dairy-free whipped coconut cream.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of cookies for the crust?

Yes, graham crackers, chocolate wafers, or Oreo cookies work great as alternatives to the base cookie crumbs.

  • How do I prevent the ice cream layers from melting while assembling?

Work quickly and keep the ice cream slightly softened but not completely melted. Have your pan pre-chilled and work in a cool environment.

  • Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire cake up to 3-4 days in advance and keep it well-covered in the freezer. Just add the whipped cream topping right before serving.

  • What if I can't find cherry pie filling?

You can substitute with fresh cherries, cherry preserves, or even a homemade cherry compote for a similar fruity layer in the cake.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Why You’ll Love Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake
  • Quick Preparation: Total time under 4 hours, including freezing periods, makes this cake ideal for spontaneous gatherings or weekend treats without extensive kitchen commitment.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combination: Cherry and chocolate create irresistible taste profile that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys a slice of deliciousness.
  • Versatile Entertaining Option: Suitable for summer parties, birthdays, or potlucks, this no-bake dessert looks professionally made while being incredibly simple to assemble.

Chocolate Ice Cream Cake With Cherry Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:
  • Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: Provides a rich, chocolatey base for the cake, adding crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Melted Butter: Helps bind the crust together and creates a smooth, cohesive texture.
Ice Cream Layers:
  • Chocolate Ice Cream, Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy base layers that form the core of the dessert, choose high-quality ice cream for best results.
Topping and Filling:
  • Cherry Pie Filling: Adds sweet-tart fruity flavor and vibrant color to the cake.
  • Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a light, fluffy topping with rich texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream, giving it a smooth consistency.

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake How-To

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake How-To

Step 1: Create Chocolatey Crust Base

Crush chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs.

Drizzle melted butter over the crumbs and blend thoroughly.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer.

Slide the pan into the freezer to set for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Layer Decadent Chocolate Ice Cream

Remove pan from freezer and spread softened chocolate ice cream evenly across the chilled crust.

Use a spatula to smooth the surface.

Return the pan to the freezer and let it firm up for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Luscious Cherry Filling

Gently spoon cherry pie filling over the chocolate ice cream layer, creating a vibrant red spread.

Make sure the filling covers the entire surface uniformly.

Place back in the freezer for 15 minutes to allow the layer to set.

Step 4: Crown with Creamy Vanilla

Take out the pan and carefully spread softened vanilla ice cream over the cherry layer.

Smooth the top with a clean spatula to ensure an even surface.

Freeze for 2 hours until completely solid.

Step 5: Prepare Fluffy Whipped Topping

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until it forms sturdy, glossy peaks.

Carefully spread the whipped cream over the frozen cake layers, creating an elegant finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Final Freeze

Sprinkle delicate chocolate shavings across the whipped cream topping.

Return the cake to the freezer for a final hour to allow all elements to merge and set completely.

Remove from freezer 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake With Smart Assembly Steps

  • Adjust cookie crumb texture by finely grinding or leaving slightly chunky for varied mouthfeel and added crunch.
  • Work quickly when layering ice cream and use chilled utensils to maintain smooth, crisp layer boundaries.
  • Drizzle dark chocolate sauce or sprinkle kirsch-soaked cherries between layers for sophisticated taste profile.
  • Swap traditional ingredients with gluten-free cookies, dairy-free ice cream, and coconut whipped cream for alternative dietary needs.
  • Prepare cake up to 3 days in advance, covering tightly with plastic wrap to preserve freshness and texture.

Chill Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Before Serving

  • Store the cake in the freezer, tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container, for up to 1 week.
  • Cut individual portions before storing to make serving easier and prevent repeated thawing.
  • Cover the cake completely with plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil to protect against ice crystals and maintain flavor quality.
  • Remove the cake from the freezer 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance texture and taste.

Side Sweets for Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Savor Sweet Cherry Harmony: Classic wine pairing with this decadent dessert to elevate flavor complexity.

  • Match Zinfandel Delight: Rich red wine complements the deep cherry notes and chocolate undertones, creating a luxurious taste experience.
  • Chocolate Liqueur Magic: Smooth chocolate liqueur echoes the cake's creamy chocolate ice cream layer, intensifying dessert's richness.
  • Fresh Berry Sparkle: Serve with chilled raspberry or strawberry sorbet alongside the cake to enhance the fruity cherry elements and provide a refreshing contrast.
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Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 26 reviews

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

Description

Summer nights call for this irresistible Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake, blending rich chocolate layers with luscious cherry swirls. Creamy, cool, and utterly indulgent, you’ll savor each luxurious bite of this crowd-pleasing dessert that promises pure deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 quart chocolate ice cream, softened
  • 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) melted butter

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Pulverize chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs and blend thoroughly with melted butter until uniformly moistened.
  2. Press the cookie mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of a springform pan, creating a compact crust. Chill in the freezer to set the base for approximately 10 minutes.
  3. Remove the pan from the freezer and carefully spread a smooth, even layer of softened chocolate ice cream across the chilled crust, ensuring complete coverage.
  4. Return the cake to the freezer and allow the chocolate ice cream layer to firm up for roughly 30 minutes.
  5. Gently spoon cherry pie filling over the chocolate ice cream, distributing the vibrant fruit mixture in a consistent layer that covers the entire surface.
  6. Place the cake back in the freezer for an additional 15 minutes to help the cherry layer set slightly.
  7. Carefully spread softened vanilla ice cream over the cherry layer, creating a smooth and even surface.
  8. Freeze the cake for approximately 2 hours to ensure all layers are thoroughly set and firm.
  9. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until it forms stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
  10. Delicately spread the whipped cream across the top of the cake, creating an elegant, billowy finish.
  11. Garnish the cake with delicate chocolate shavings, sprinkled evenly over the whipped cream topping.
  12. Return the cake to the freezer for a final hour to allow all components to solidify before serving.

Notes

  • Use graham crackers or chocolate cookie crumbs for a more robust base that adds extra crunch and flavor to the dessert.
  • Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before spreading to ensure smooth, even layers without tearing the crust.
  • Substitute regular ice cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond milk ice cream for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Prepare the cake up to 3 days in advance and keep frozen, allowing flavors to meld and making party prep easier.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Freezing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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