Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a small bowl, toss the cherries with 1/4 cup of the sugar. Spread the cherries evenly over the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and remaining 3/4 cup sugar. Mix well.
Add the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Stir until just combined.
Pour the batter over the cherries in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let it cool completely before slicing.