This Black Forest cake is a show-stopping dessert with layers of rich chocolate cake, fluffy whipped cream, and sweet, juicy cherries, finished with dark chocolate shavings for an irresistible finish. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to a slice of heaven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Timeless classic: A dessert with rich flavors and an elegant presentation.
- Perfectly balanced: Moist chocolate cake paired with light whipped cream and tart cherries.
- Impressive yet doable: Looks stunning but is simple to prepare with easy-to-find ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors and decorations to make it your own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1 cup cherries (fresh or canned, pitted)
- 1 tbsp kirsch (cherry brandy)
- ½ cup dark chocolate, shaved or grated
- 2 cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
Make the Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cherries:
- If using fresh cherries, pit and slice them in half. If using canned cherries, drain and toss them with 1 tablespoon of kirsch. Set aside.
Assemble the Cake:
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by a layer of cherries.
- Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with whipped cream and cherries.
- Decorate: Spread whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with shaved dark chocolate and additional cherries.
Chill and Serve:
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Alcohol-free version: Skip the kirsch and use cherry juice or a cherry syrup instead.
- Single-layer cake: Bake the batter in a single 9-inch pan for a simpler version.
- Add frosting: Add a layer of chocolate buttercream beneath the whipped cream for extra decadence.
- Use other fruits: Swap cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan whipped cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices (without whipped cream) wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling or serving.
FAQs
1. What is kirsch, and can I skip it?
Kirsch is a cherry brandy traditionally used in Black Forest cake. If you prefer, you can omit it or substitute it with cherry juice or syrup.
2. Can I use a boxed chocolate cake mix?
Yes, a boxed cake mix works as a convenient shortcut. Follow the package instructions and proceed with the assembly as outlined.
3. How do I make whipped cream from scratch?
Whisk 2 cups of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to use.
4. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, thaw frozen cherries and drain any excess liquid before using them in the cake.
5. What’s the best way to shave chocolate?
Use a vegetable peeler to shave a chocolate bar into delicate curls or shavings.
6. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
7. How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Be careful not to overbake the cake layers, and store the assembled cake covered in the refrigerator to retain moisture.
8. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cake layers and whipped cream up to 1 day in advance. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
9. Can I add a chocolate ganache layer?
Absolutely! Drizzle chocolate ganache between the layers or over the top for extra richness.
10. How do I keep the whipped cream stable?
Add 1 teaspoon of gelatin dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water to the whipped cream while beating to help stabilize it.
Conclusion
This classic Black Forest cake is a timeless dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. With its moist chocolate layers, creamy whipped filling, and juicy cherries, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Follow this recipe to create an elegant cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Classic Black Forest Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Black Forest Cake is a decadent dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy whipped cream, and juicy cherries, all topped with dark chocolate shavings. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1 cup cherries (fresh or canned, pitted)
- 1 tbsp kirsch (optional, for soaking the cherries)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate (shaved or grated for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- If using canned cherries, drain them well. If using fresh cherries, pit them and optionally soak them in kirsch for 10-15 minutes.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one layer of the cooled chocolate cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top.
- Add a layer of cherries on top of the whipped cream.
- Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with whipped cream. Smooth it over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish:
- Top the cake with dark chocolate shavings and extra cherries for decoration. Chill the cake for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve this indulgent Black Forest Cake as a stunning dessert centerpiece!
Notes
- For an alcohol-free version, skip the kirsch or replace it with cherry juice.
- Whipped cream can be stabilized with a teaspoon of cornstarch or powdered sugar to help it hold its shape.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Find it online: https://yumandjoy.com/classic-black-forest-delight/
