Black Forest Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a showstopper and a true celebration of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. Originally from Germany, this iconic cake (known as "Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte" in German) has won hearts worldwide with its layers of moist chocolate sponge, sweetened cherries, creamy whipped topping, and that perfect hint of Kirsch. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, here's how you can create a stunning Black Forest Cake at home.

Black Forest Cake


Ingredients (Serves 8-10)

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 1½ cups pitted cherries (fresh or jarred)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Kirsch (cherry brandy) – optional

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1½ tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration:

  • 1 bar of dark chocolate (for shavings)
  • 8-10 whole cherries (with stems if possible)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients. Combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients. Beat together milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing evenly.
  4. Add boiling water. Slowly pour the boiling water into the batter, stirring until smooth. The batter will be thin, but don't worry—that's what makes the cake moist!
  5. Bake. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling

  1. Combine ingredients. Place the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and ¼ cup water in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Cook until thickened. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil and thickens into a glossy filling. Remove from heat and stir in the Kirsch (if using).
  3. Cool. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

  1. Chill the bowl. Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
  2. Whip. Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Trim the layers (optional). If your cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for a flat surface.
  2. Add filling. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream, then spoon the cherry filling on top (reserve some cherries for decoration).
  3. Stack the cake. Add the second cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with whipped cream, smoothing the sides and top.
  4. Decorate. Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from the dark chocolate bar, and press them onto the sides of the cake. Top with whole cherries and additional whipped cream dollops for that classic Black Forest look.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing much easier.

Tips for Success

  • Use Kirsch for Authentic Flavor: While optional, this cherry brandy gives the cake an authentic touch. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit it or replace it with cherry juice.
  • Keep the Whipped Cream Cold: Warm cream won't whip properly, so make sure your cream and equipment are chilled.
  • Prepare in Advance: The flavors of Black Forest Cake actually improve with a little resting time, so feel free to assemble it the day before serving.

Final Thoughts

There's a timeless charm to a beautifully made Black Forest Cake—it’s rich, creamy, decadent, and full of contrasting textures and flavors. Whether you're surprising a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe promises to be a showstopper every time.

Go ahead and give it a try! And don’t forget to share photos or comment below with your thoughts—we’d love to see your baking creations. 🖤🍒

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