Black Forest Cake Recipe: A Festive Chocolate-Cherry Indulgence
Black Forest Cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a classic German dessert featuring rich chocolate sponge layers, tart cherries, and velvety whipped cream. This showstopper is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge:
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
1/2 cup (120ml) hot water
For the Cherry Filling:
2 cups (300g) pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
2 tbsp Kirsch (optional)
For the Whipped Cream:
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
Chocolate shavings
Fresh cherries
Instructions
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Assembly Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Stir in hot water until well combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
In a saucepan, combine cherries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices (about 5 minutes).
Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the filling thickens. Add Kirsch, if using. Cool completely.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Slice each cake layer in half horizontally to create four layers.
Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of cherry filling.
Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Decorate with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.
Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Stabilized Whipped Cream: Add 1 tsp of gelatin dissolved in 1 tbsp of water to your whipped cream to help it hold its shape.
Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers and prepare the cherry filling a day ahead for easier assembly.
Kirsch Alternative: Use cherry juice or syrup if you prefer an alcohol-free version.