Cherry chip cake mix is more than a box on the baking aisle—it’s a throwback to childhood birthdays, bake sales, and that one recipe grandma made just right. In this article, we’ll dive into the irresistible charm of this classic dessert mix. You’ll learn its history, what makes it unique, the brands still making it, and how to elevate it into a showstopping cake. Whether you’re a curious baker or just craving a taste of something sentimental, cherry chip cake mix has a story worth rediscovering—and we’ll also share a few pro tips to make it even more delicious.
Table of Contents
A Personal Connection to Cherry Chip Cake Mix
The Cake That Made My Twins Say “More, Please”
I remember the first time I baked with cherry chip cake mix like it was yesterday. My twin boys were barely six, and I was deep in the “make veggies fun” phase. But birthdays? Those were about full-on indulgence. I needed something that felt festive but didn’t demand frosting roses or piping bags. I grabbed a box of cherry chip cake mix, added my homemade touch with almond extract and sour cream, and hoped for the best.
The kitchen smelled like a candy store met a bakery. When I served it, the boys looked skeptical—then devoured it. That pink-speckled crumb and the bright cherry flavor made it their instant favorite. It was the first time a boxed mix felt personal. I realized cherry chip cake wasn’t just nostalgic for me—it was becoming nostalgic for them too.
That simple mix became our go-to for celebrations. Over time, I started experimenting. Sometimes I’d use maraschino cherry juice instead of water. Other times, I’d stir in mini chocolate chips for a twist. Whether we baked it into cupcakes for school or layered it into a cream-filled poke cake, it never failed to bring joy.
Cherry chip cake mix taught me something big: comfort and creativity can live in the same bowl. And isn’t that what home baking is all about?
Why Cherry Chip Cake Mix Holds Its Own
What makes cherry chip cake mix stand out is its playful yet balanced flavor. The cake has that signature light vanilla base dotted with sweet, candied cherry bits—giving it a naturally speckled appearance. It’s not cloying like some fruit-flavored cakes. Instead, it’s soft, buttery, and subtly floral thanks to those cherry notes.
You can dress it up or down. Bake it as-is for a retro vibe, or frost it with cream cheese icing for something modern. You can even reinvent it into layered cakes with whipped cream and cherry compote. For a fun idea, turn it into cake pops for party treats—my post on banana cream cake has a similar playful twist you can apply.
Another reason it endures? That unmistakable pink crumb. It brings color to your table without needing food dye. If you like the soft pink tones of strawberry cream cake, you’ll love this too.
Cherry Chip Cake Mix Recipe: Sweet Nostalgia in Every Bite
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease cake pans or line cupcake trays.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, sour cream, melted butter, cherry juice (or buttermilk), almond extract, and eggs.
- Mix until smooth. Fold in optional chocolate chips if using.
- Pour into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Optional: Layer with cherry preserves and mascarpone whipped cream, or crumble into cake pops.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Where to Find Cherry Chip Cake Mix Today
Is Cherry Chip Cake Mix Still on Shelves?
One of the most common questions I get is, “Does Betty Crocker still make the Cherry Chip cake mix?” And the answer is—yes, but it can be tricky to find. Betty Crocker has produced this nostalgic mix for decades, but it’s often available in select stores or online. You might not spot it on every grocery shelf, but chains like Walmart and Kroger sometimes stock it, especially around holidays.
Walmart frequently carries the Betty Crocker Cherry Chip cake mix in both physical stores and online, depending on your region. Meanwhile, Kroger has it in limited locations, and you may have to check inventory online or ask at your local branch.
If you’re in a pinch and can’t find it locally, there are online options like Amazon or Instacart that often have it in stock—just be prepared for slightly higher prices.
Looking for alternative options? While Betty Crocker remains the main brand offering cherry chip, you can get creative and build your own. I’ll share a simple homemade version next.
By the way, if you love boxed mix hacks, my Boston Cream Poke Cake is another clever way to make something spectacular with minimal effort.
DIY Cherry Chip Cake Mix for When the Shelf is Empty
Can’t find the boxed mix? Don’t worry—homemade cherry chip cake mix is easier than you think. All you need is a vanilla cake base, finely chopped maraschino cherries, and a hint of almond extract to mimic that signature flavor. The cherries add both moisture and bursts of sweetness throughout.
Here’s a simple formula:
- Dry base: 2 cups cake flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp salt, 1 cup sugar
- Add-ins: ½ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries (patted dry), 1 tsp almond extract
- Wet ingredients: 1 cup milk, ½ cup butter (softened), 3 egg whites
Mix the dry and wet separately, then combine, folding in cherries at the end. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes in greased pans.
You can even freeze the cherries first to make them easier to chop without staining. Want a twist? Try adding a swirl of cherry jam or crushed freeze-dried cherries for concentrated flavor.
If you’re into scratch baking but still want reliable results, check out my pound cake with cream cheese for inspiration—same philosophy, bold flavor with minimal fuss.
Creative Ways to Elevate Cherry Chip Cake Mix
Turn a Boxed Mix Into a Bakery-Worthy Cake
Cherry chip cake mix might start in a box, but that doesn’t mean it has to taste basic. With just a few tweaks, you can transform it into something that rivals a bakery cake. Start with easy swaps: replace water with buttermilk or cherry juice to enhance the tang and flavor depth. Use melted butter instead of oil, and add an extra egg for richer texture.
To really wow, try layering the baked cake with cherry preserves and mascarpone whipped cream. It’s a perfect no-fuss dessert that feels fancy but takes less than 30 minutes to assemble. A light almond glaze drizzled over the top ties the flavors together beautifully.
You could also fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate for a cherry-chocolate twist. That combo is especially popular around Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. And if you enjoy icebox-style treats, slice the cake thin and layer it with whipped topping and berries for a chilled trifle version.
Looking for more reinvented boxed mix recipes? My gluten-free ice cream cake uses similar upgrades to elevate the humble mix into a celebration-worthy dish.
Fun and Festive Cherry Chip Cake Ideas for Every Occasion
Cherry chip cake isn’t just for birthdays. With its cheerful pink hue and adaptable flavor, it’s ideal for all kinds of gatherings—from baby showers to brunches. Here are a few ideas I’ve loved over the years:
- Cherry Chip Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting: Perfect for school parties or quick bakes. Add a cherry on top for a cute finish.
- Cherry Chip Cake Pops: Crumble the baked cake, mix with a little frosting, roll into balls, and dip into white chocolate. These were a hit at my boys’ class Valentine’s Day party.
- Mini Layer Cakes: Use cookie cutters to punch out small rounds from a sheet cake and stack with whipped frosting and cherry preserves.
Don’t forget presentation. A simple garnish of fresh cherries or shaved chocolate makes a big impression. And speaking of impressive, my banana split ice cream is another colorful crowd-pleaser to pair alongside cherry chip cake for summer parties.
For more fun variations and ideas, check out our Facebook and Pinterset sections where creativity meets craving.
Ingredients, Nutrition & Storage Tips for Cherry Chip Cake Mix
What’s Really Inside Cherry Chip Cake Mix?
So, what’s actually in cherry chip cake mix? Whether you’re reading the back of a Betty Crocker box or mixing your own from scratch, the key elements remain the same: a soft vanilla cake base and vibrant cherry-flavored chips or bits. The chips are typically made from cherry-flavored sugar or gelatin-based candy, giving the cake that familiar sweet burst in every bite.
Here’s a typical boxed ingredient list breakdown:
- Enriched flour (wheat flour, iron, folic acid)
- Sugar
- Vegetable oil shortening
- Cherry-flavored chips (with food coloring)
- Leavening agents (baking soda, monocalcium phosphate)
- Salt
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Color additives (like Red 40)
It’s not the cleanest label, but it delivers that unmistakable nostalgic flavor. If you prefer a more natural approach, opt for a homemade version with chopped maraschino or dried cherries and pure almond extract, as we covered in Part 2.
Want to keep your ingredients real but indulgent? Try blending ideas from my chocolate ice cream recipe—it’s rich, simple, and free from unnecessary fillers.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reuse Leftover Cherry Chip Cake
You’ve baked your beautiful cherry chip cake—now let’s keep it fresh. Whether it’s a layered masterpiece or a tray of cupcakes, proper storage is key.
Short-Term Storage:
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If frosted with cream cheese or whipped toppings, refrigerate instead.
Freezing Tips:
Wrap cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 2–3 hours before serving.
Leftover Ideas:
- Trifle jars: Layer crumbled cake with whipped cream and fruit in mason jars.
- Cake milkshakes: Blend cake crumbs with vanilla ice cream and milk.
- Cherry chip French toast: Yes, it’s a thing. Dip slices in custard and griddle for a sweet brunch twist.
Just like my chocolate brownie ice cream cake, cherry chip desserts only get better when reused creatively.
FAQ Section
Does Betty Crocker still make the Cherry Chip cake mix?
Yes, Betty Crocker still makes it, though availability can vary by region and store. It’s often easier to find online or seasonally in major retailers.
Does Walmart sell cherry chip cake mix?
Yes, Walmart frequently stocks the Betty Crocker version, both in-store and on their website. Availability depends on your zip code.
Does Kroger carry Cherry Chip Cake Mix?
Some Kroger locations do carry it, but it’s best to check online first or call ahead. Not all branches keep it in regular stock.
What is in cherry chip cake mix?
Typical ingredients include enriched flour, sugar, leavening agents, and cherry-flavored chips made with artificial flavors and food coloring. Homemade versions use cake flour, almond extract, and chopped cherries.
Conclusion
Cherry chip cake mix isn’t just a nostalgic treat—it’s a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re using a box or crafting it from scratch, this sweet, pink-speckled cake offers warmth, whimsy, and total crowd-pleasing power. With its light crumb, bright cherry flavor, and endless customization options, it’s a dessert worth rediscovering. So dust off that oven mitt, grab a box (or a bowl), and make a little magic in your kitchen—just like I did for my boys all those years ago.
Stay inspired with more fun ideas like cream cake variations or banana chocolate milkshake as the perfect side treat.