Black Forest Cherry Cake

Black Forest Cherry Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate, sweet cherries, and whipped cream. Originating from Germany, this cake is not only visually stunning but also deliciously indulgent. With its layers of chocolate cake, cherry filling, and whipped cream, it’s perfect for any special occasion or just a treat for yourself!

Why make this recipe?

This cake is a showstopper, making it a great choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings. The combination of chocolate and cherries is a classic that never fails to impress. Plus, making it at home allows you to customize the ingredients according to your taste. So, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this heavenly dessert!

How to prepare Black Forest Cherry Cake

Ingredients:

• 🥣 1 3⁄4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 🍫 3⁄4 cup (65 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 🥄 2 tsp baking powder
• 🥄 1 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
• 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
• 🍬 2 cups (400 g) sugar
• 🛢️ 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 🥚 2 large eggs
• 🥛 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• 🌼 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ☕ 1 cup (240 ml) hot coffee (or hot water)
• 🍒 2 cups (300 g) pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• 🍬 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar (for cherry filling)
• 🌽 2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (slurry)
• 🍒 1 tbsp Kirsch (cherry liqueur) — optional
• 🥛 2 1⁄2 cups (600 ml) heavy whipping cream
• 🍬 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
• 🍫 1 cup (150 g) dark chocolate shavings
• 🍫 Chocolate curls or bars (optional)
• 🍒 Whole cherries (fresh or maraschino)
• 🥛 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 🍫 100 g dark chocolate, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the sugar and vegetable oil until combined. Add in the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and hot coffee, mixing until smooth.

4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

5. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the cherry filling: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Kirsch if using. Let cool.

7. Make the whipped cream: In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

8. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cherry filling over the cake, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top, and repeat with the remaining cherry filling and whipped cream.

9. Decorate: Top the cake with dark chocolate shavings, chocolate curls or bars, and whole cherries.

How to serve Black Forest Cherry Cake

Slice the Black Forest Cherry Cake into generous pieces and serve immediately. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of milk. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors with every bite!

How to store Black Forest Cherry Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for up to 1 month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

Tips for preparing Black Forest Cherry Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Don’t rush the cooling process; a fully cooled cake will keep the layers from sliding apart.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cherry filling based on your preference!

Variations

• Cherry exchange: Try using other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a different twist on this classic.
• Chocolate lovers: Add more dark chocolate shavings on top or mix in chocolate chips in the cake batter for extra chocolate flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cakes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for 1-2 days before assembling.

2. Is it necessary to use Kirsch?

No, it’s optional. The cake will still be delicious without it, but Kirsch adds an authentic flavor.

3. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! You can use store-bought whipped topping to save time, but homemade whipped cream tastes fresher and richer.

Enjoy making your Black Forest Cherry Cake! 🍒🍫🍰