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Black Forest Chocolate Cake

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  • Author: Mariem
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8-10 serving 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: German

Description

This Black Forest Chocolate Cake is a rich and decadent dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate sponge, fresh whipped cream, and cherry filling. Topped with dark chocolate shavings and fresh cherries, this classic German cake is perfect for celebrations and special occasions.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) buttermilk

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups (300g) pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp cherry liqueur (Kirsch) or cherry juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration:

  • Dark chocolate shavings
  • Fresh cherries
  • Chocolate drizzle (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until smooth.
  5. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. Let the cake cool completely, then slice it into two equal layers.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling

  1. In a saucepan, cook cherries, sugar, and cherry liqueur over medium heat until softened.
  2. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream

  1. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream over it.
  2. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the whipped cream.
  3. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining whipped cream.
  4. Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh cherries, and chocolate drizzle.

Notes

  • For a traditional Black Forest Cake, use Kirsch liqueur for a richer flavor.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For an easier version, use chocolate cake mix and canned cherry pie filling.