Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is a classic German dessert known for its layers of rich chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and tart cherries. Decorated with chocolate shavings and more cherries, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines moist chocolate layers with fluffy whipped cream and the bright flavor of cherries, making it a decadent yet refreshing treat. Its elegant presentation and harmonious flavors make it ideal for celebrations, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk
• Fresh or canned cherries (pitted)
• Kirsch (cherry brandy) or cherry juice
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Chocolate shavings or curls

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until combined.
4. Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk to wet mixture, mixing until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. Prepare whipped cream by beating heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Drain cherries and toss with kirsch or cherry juice.
8. Assemble cake layers by spreading whipped cream and cherries between layers. Repeat for all layers.
9. Cover cake with remaining whipped cream, decorate with chocolate shavings and cherries.
10. Chill cake for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Baking time: 30 minutes
• Chilling time: 2 hours
• Total time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Use chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a richer cake.
• Substitute kirsch with cherry juice for a non-alcoholic version.
• Add toasted almonds for extra crunch.
• Make cupcakes with the same ingredients for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Store cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Best served chilled.
• Avoid freezing as it can alter texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, thaw and drain before using.

Is kirsch necessary?

No, but it adds authentic flavor; substitute with cherry juice if preferred.

How do I keep the whipped cream stable?

Use cold cream and whip to stiff peaks; adding stabilizers helps for longer storage.

Can I prepare the cake in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate; consume within 3 days.

How do I prevent the cake from drying?

Cover well and refrigerate promptly.

Can I make the cake gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

How long does the cake last?

Best eaten within 3 days.

What chocolate is best for shavings?

Use good-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Use plant-based substitutes for dairy and eggs; results may vary.

How do I get moist chocolate cake layers?

Avoid overmixing and do not overbake; use oil for moisture.

Conclusion

Black Forest Cake is a timeless dessert that brings together chocolate, cherries, and cream in a beautiful and delicious way. Its layers of moist cake and fluffy whipped cream, accented with tart cherries, make it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration or special occasion.

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