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Black Forest Cake

The Black Forest Cake is a classic dessert that layers rich chocolate cake with luscious cherries and creamy whipped topping. Known for its deep flavors and beautiful presentation, this cake is perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at home. If you’re looking to impress your friends and family, this delightful cake will surely do the trick! 🍰🍒

Why make this recipe?

Making a Black Forest Cake at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking. The combination of moist chocolate cake, tart cherries, and fluffy cream creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to please any crowd. Plus, baking this cake will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making it a memorable experience.

How to prepare Black Forest Cake

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
2.5 cups granulated sugar 🍚
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
2.5 teaspoons baking powder 🥄
2 teaspoons baking soda 🥄
1 teaspoon salt 🧂
6 large eggs 🥚
1.25 cups vegetable oil 🛢️
1.5 cups buttermilk 🥛
1.5 cups hot coffee or hot water ☕
2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🌼
3 cups pitted cherries 🍒
1/2 cup sugar 🍬
2 tablespoons cornstarch 🌽
1/4 cup water 💧
1/4 cup cherry syrup or juice 🍒
4 cups cold whipping cream 🍦
1 cup powdered sugar 🍬
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting) 🌼
200g dark chocolate (optional) 🍫

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. 🏠
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. 🍚🍫
Add eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot coffee (or water), and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat until smooth. 🥄🥛☕
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean. 🕒
While the cake is baking, prepare the cherry filling. In a saucepan, mix cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Stir in the cherry syrup or juice and let it cool. 🍒🍬
Once the cakes are baked, let them cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. ⏳
For the frosting, whip the cold whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. 🍦🍬
To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate, spread half of the cherry filling on top, and then spread a layer of whipped cream over the cherries. Place the second cake layer on top. 🍰🍒
Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Optionally, shave dark chocolate on top for decoration. 🍫✨

How to serve Black Forest Cake

Slice the Black Forest Cake into generous portions and serve immediately. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You can also garnish each slice with extra cherries or chocolate shavings for an added touch. Enjoy! 🍵🍒

How to store Black Forest Cake

To store your Black Forest Cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider storing the layers and cherry filling separately, then assemble when you’re ready to serve. ❄️

Tips for preparing Black Forest Cake

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t open the oven door while baking to prevent the cake from sinking.
If you like a richer flavor, allow the cake to sit overnight in the fridge before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully. 🌙

Variations

For a twist, use other fruits like raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries.
Try adding a layer of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat! 🍓🍫

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour.

Q: How can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: You can bake the cake layers and freeze them. Just thaw them before assembly, and prepare the frosting fresh.

Q: Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
A: Buttermilk adds moisture and enhances the cake’s flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. 🥛