Black Forest Cake, known for its layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, is a show-stopping dessert perfect for any celebration. This classic German cake is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Follow this detailed recipe to create a Black Forest Cake that will impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors and stunning appearance.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 can (20 ounces or 565g) pitted dark sweet cherries in syrup
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons kirsch (cherry brandy) (optional)
For the Whipped Cream:
- 3 cups (720ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Decoration:
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh cherries (optional)
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and beat with a mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Add Boiling Water: Stir in the boiling water last. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Cherry Filling:
- Prepare the Cherries: Drain the cherries, reserving the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Stir in the reserved syrup and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add Cherries and Flavoring: Stir in the drained cherries, vanilla extract, and kirsch (if using). Remove from heat and let cool completely.
For the Whipped Cream:
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Cake:
- Slice the Cake Layers: Using a long serrated knife, cut cake horizontally into three equal layers.
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling over the cake, then spread a layer of whipped cream on top of the cherries. Add second layer on top and repeat the process.
- Top Layer: Place the final cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
- Decorate: Decorate the top and sides of the cake with chocolate shavings or curls. Garnish with fresh cherries if desired.
Enjoy!
This Black Forest Cake is a delicious combination of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Share Your Creations!
Have you tried this Black Forest Cake recipe? We’d love to see your results! Share your photos and any creative decorations you used in the comments below. Happy baking! 🍒🍫
Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good dessert. Enjoy every decadent bite!
