There's something magical about the combination of cherries and chocolate, especially when paired with rich, creamy ice cream. This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a decadent treat that brings together layers of luscious cherry ice cream, fudgy chocolate cake, and a silky chocolate ganache topping. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and indulgent flavors.

I first created this recipe for a summer gathering, looking for something that would impress my guests while being refreshingly cool. The result? A show-stopping dessert that had everyone coming back for seconds. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible frozen dessert. This cake is more than just delicious—it’s the ultimate combination of flavors and textures.

First, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser. The mix of cherry and chocolate appeals to just about everyone, making it a great choice for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Second, it’s surprisingly simple to make. While it looks fancy, it only requires a few key steps, and you can even prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Plus, it’s a no-fail recipe. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just getting started, this cake comes together beautifully every time with minimal effort.

And let’s not forget—it’s refreshingly cool and creamy. On a hot day, there’s nothing better than digging into a frozen slice of this decadent cake.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this cake lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

Chocolate Cake Base – A moist, rich chocolate cake forms the foundation of this dessert. I recommend using a homemade cake for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, a high-quality store-bought cake works just as well.

Cherry Ice Cream – The star of the show! Look for a premium cherry ice cream with real cherry pieces for the best taste and texture. If you want to take it up a notch, try making your own cherry ice cream at home.

Chocolate Ganache – A glossy, smooth layer of chocolate ganache adds the perfect finishing touch. Made with just chocolate and heavy cream, it’s rich, decadent, and incredibly easy to whip up.

Fresh Cherries – For garnish, fresh cherries not only add a pop of color but also enhance the cherry flavor throughout the cake. You can also use maraschino cherries for a sweeter touch.

Optional Add-Ins – Want to elevate this cake even more? Sprinkle in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of cherry jam between the layers.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

Creating this delicious frozen treat is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you'll have a picture-perfect dessert in no time.

Start by baking your chocolate cake. If making from scratch, mix together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, eggs, and milk until you get a smooth batter. Pour it into a lined springform pan and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool completely before assembling the cake.

Once your cake base is ready, soften the cherry ice cream slightly to make spreading easier. Remove the cake from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of ice cream over the top, smoothing it with a spatula. Freeze for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.

Now, it’s time to make the chocolate ganache. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just steaming (not boiling), then pour it over chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring over the frozen cake.

Pour the ganache over the ice cream layer, letting it drizzle down the sides for a beautiful finish. Work quickly, as the ganache will start to set as soon as it hits the frozen surface.

Finally, garnish with fresh cherries and any additional toppings you’d like. Return the cake to the freezer for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing for the perfect consistency.

Storage Options

This Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is best stored in the freezer, where it will keep its perfect texture for up to one week. For best results, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

If you have leftovers, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece separately before freezing. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever a craving strikes!

To serve after freezing, let the cake sit out at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before cutting.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few fun ways to customize your cake:

Want to switch up the flavor? Swap the cherry ice cream for raspberry, strawberry, or even vanilla bean for a different take on this classic combination.

For an extra crunch, add crushed cookies like Oreos or graham crackers between the layers. This gives the cake a fun texture contrast and added flavor.

Looking for a dairy-free version? Use a dairy-free chocolate cake and swap in your favorite non-dairy ice cream, like coconut or almond-based cherry ice cream.

If you’re a fan of boozy desserts, add a splash of cherry liqueur (like Kirsch) to the ganache or soak the cake layers in it for an adults-only twist.

Experiment with different toppings—whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of caramel can take this cake to the next level.

No matter how you customize it, this Cherry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is bound to be a hit. Try it out for your next special occasion and watch as it disappears slice by slice!