If you have a soft spot for rich, indulgent desserts, this Black Forest Cake Recipe is going to sweep you right off your feet. Imagine the perfect harmony of moist chocolate layers soaked in a subtle cherry essence, sandwiched with fluffy whipped cream, and bursting with luscious cherry filling that just melts in your mouth. This classic German dessert never fails to impress, whether it’s a celebratory centerpiece or a sweet treat to brighten your afternoon. Let’s dive into every delicious detail and make your baking adventure unforgettable!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is simpler than you think, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the unforgettable taste, texture, and stunning look of the Black Forest Cake Recipe. From the cocoa powder that brings deep chocolate richness to the cherries that add that signature fruity zing, every element is essential.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft and tender cake crumb.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness throughout the cake layers.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor without overwhelming bitterness.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk for a moist texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the chocolate and balances sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the batter.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Tangy and tenderizes the crumb while adding moisture.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup hot water: Intensifies the cocoa, making the chocolate taste extra robust.
- 4 cups frozen cherries: The star fruit that fills the cake with juicy sweetness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cherries, adjustable depending on their tartness.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (or 1–2 tablespoons Kirsch): Adds authentic Black Forest aroma.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry): Thickens the cherry filling to the perfect consistency.
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream: For that fluffy, dreamy whipped cream frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the whipped cream’s flavor.
- Whole cherries with stems: For a stunning and classic edible garnish.
- Chocolate shavings or curls: Adds elegant chocolatey decoration to finish it off.
How to Make Black Forest Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans for easy cake release. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, then pour in the hot water, stirring gently until the batter is uniform and smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
While the cakes cool, it’s time to create the luscious cherry filling that makes this Black Forest Cake Recipe so iconic. In a saucepan, combine frozen cherries, granulated sugar, almond extract or Kirsch, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry and add this to the simmering cherries, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely, ensuring your cherry layer won’t melt the whipped cream later.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer. Whip on high until stiff peaks form, but be careful not to overbeat or it will become grainy. This whipped cream will be the lovely, airy frosting that balances the rich chocolate and tart cherries perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble Your Black Forest Cake Recipe
Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cherry filling over it, then cover with a thick layer of whipped cream. Repeat with the second cake layer and top with more cherry filling and whipped cream. Place the last cake layer on top, and cover the entire cake with remaining whipped cream using an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
Step 5: Decorate to Impress
Now for the fun part! Garnish the cake with whole cherries with stems and sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls generously over the top and sides. Not only does this add a professional touch, but the texture and visual appeal are irresistible. Chill the cake for at least an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
How to Serve Black Forest Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Black Forest Cake Recipe is in its presentation. Whole cherries with stems add a charming rustic look, while chocolate curls lend an elegant twist. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten the plate and add a refreshing note to the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent experience. A simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness and complementing the dessert’s layers perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices topped with a dollop of whipped cream, a spoonful of cherry compote, and a sprinkle of chocolate curls on a decorative plate. For gatherings, consider decorating the whole cake with edible flowers or gold dust for a festive celebration twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover your Black Forest Cake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days. This lets the flavors deepen while keeping the whipped cream fluffy and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers before assembling by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw thoroughly in the fridge before adding the cherry filling and whipping up fresh cream. Avoid freezing the assembled cake as whipped cream can lose its texture.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. Just take it out of the refrigerator about 15 to 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to soften and the cake to reach the perfect eating temperature.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen for the cherry filling?
Yes! Fresh cherries work beautifully, especially when in season. Just pit them and adjust the sugar slightly depending on their natural sweetness. Fresh cherries will provide a brighter, fresher flavor but frozen cherries are a great year-round option.
What’s the secret to making the cake layers super moist?
The combination of buttermilk and hot water in the batter keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender. The hot water intensifies the cocoa flavor while the buttermilk tenderizes the crumb perfectly.
Can I substitute Kirsch in the cherry filling?
Absolutely! Kirsch, a cherry brandy, adds an authentic depth of flavor, but almond extract is a wonderful non-alcoholic alternative that still captures that classic aroma.
How long does it take to assemble the entire Black Forest Cake Recipe?
With all components prepared, assembly usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. However, you need to allow sufficient cooling and chilling time for the best results overall.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! The Black Forest Cake Recipe is wonderfully festive and elegant, making it a show-stopping dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration where you want to impress.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like making and sharing this Black Forest Cake Recipe with friends and family. It’s a celebration of classic flavors wrapped up in a beautiful, mouthwatering package. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will become a treasured favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. So grab your ingredients and get ready for a delightful baking adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Black Forest Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
This classic Black Forest Cake features rich chocolate sponge layers soaked in a cherry syrup, layered with luscious whipped cream and a generous filling of tart cherries. Topped with whole cherries and elegant chocolate shavings, this indulgent dessert is perfect for celebrations or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
Cherry Filling
- 4 cups frozen cherries
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of cherries)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (or 1–2 tablespoons Kirsch as an alternative)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- Whole cherries with stems
- Chocolate shavings or curls
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing well. Slowly stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and thin.
- Bake the cake layers: Divide the batter evenly into two greased round cake pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare the cherry filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine frozen cherries, granulated sugar, and almond extract (or Kirsch). Cook until cherries release their juices and soften, about 10 minutes. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir into the cherry mixture and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Whip the cream: In a large chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until assembly.
- Assemble the cake: Slice the cooled cake layers horizontally to create four thin layers if desired. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a third of the cherry filling over it, then top with whipped cream. Repeat layering with remaining cake layers, cherries, and whipped cream. Finish with a thick layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with whole cherries and chocolate shavings. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Kirsch (cherry brandy) is optional but authentic to Black Forest cake and adds a lovely cherry aroma and flavor.
- Adjust the sugar in the cherry filling depending on the tartness of your cherries.
- For best results, chill the whipped cream bowl and beaters before whipping to achieve stiff peaks quickly.
- The cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavors.
- If fresh cherries are in season, they can be used instead of frozen; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
