Black Forest Collapse Cake
If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavors and delicious cherries, then the Black Forest Collapse Cake is a perfect dessert for you. This delightful cake combines layers of moist chocolate cake with a sweet cherry filling and a creamy frosting, topped off with the classic garnishes of chocolate shavings and cherries. It’s a showstopper that will impress friends and family alike at any gathering!
Why make this recipe?
The Black Forest Collapse Cake isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it delivers an explosion of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. It’s a fun take on the traditional Black Forest cake, giving you all the charm with an easy-to-make and less fussy approach. Plus, it’s perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or simply treating yourself after a long week.
How to prepare Black Forest Collapse Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) flour 🌾
- 3/4 cup (75g) cocoa powder 🍫
- 2 cups (400g) sugar 🍬
- 2 teaspoons baking powder 🥄
- 1 + 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 🥄
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 🥛
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 🌻
- 2 eggs 🥚
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🍦
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or hot water ☕
- 2 cups (200g) cherries (fresh or canned) 🍒
- 1/4 cup (50g) sugar 🍬
- 1 tbsp cornstarch 🌽
- 2 tablespoons water 💧
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tablespoon cherry syrup or rum (optional) 🍒
- 1 cup (225g) butter (at room temperature) 🧈
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar 🍬
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder 🍫
- 3 tbsp milk or cream 🥛
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- A pinch of salt 🧂
- Chocolate shavings or curls 🍫
- Fresh or cocktail cherries 🍒
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually pour in the hot coffee or water while mixing until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cakes are baking, prepare the cherry filling by mixing the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and optional cherry syrup or rum in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then set aside to cool.
- Once the cakes are baked, let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, whip the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the cherry filling on top, followed by a layer of frosting.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Top with chocolate shavings or curls and cherries.
How to serve Black Forest Collapse Cake
Slice the Black Forest Collapse Cake into wedges and serve immediately. This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat! 🎉🍰
How to store Black Forest Collapse Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the layers (wrapped individually) for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Tips for preparing Black Forest Collapse Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- To ensure even baking, use an oven thermometer to check your oven’s temperature.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries according to your preference!
Variations
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling.
- You can replace cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a fruity variation.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
1. Can I use cake mix instead of homemade batter?
Yes! You can use chocolate cake mix for a quicker option, just follow the package instructions and layer as directed.
2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble them closer to serving time. Just store the layers wrapped in plastic wrap.
Enjoy bringing this delicious Black Forest Collapse Cake to life in your kitchen! 🍰❤️