Why Make This Recipe
Black Forest Cake is a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with the sweetness of cherries and the lightness of whipped cream. This cake is perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or simply to enjoy with family and friends. Its layers of chocolate cake and creamy frosting make it a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
How to Make Black Forest Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 jar (24 oz) morello cherries, drained and liquid reserved
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are cool, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, moisten with some of the reserved cherry liquid, then spread with a layer of whipped cream and top with cherries. Repeat with the next two layers.
- Place the final layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and additional cherries if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
How to Serve Black Forest Cake
Serve Black Forest Cake chilled for the best taste. You can slice it into generous pieces and enjoy it as a dessert. It pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a delightful option for gatherings.
How to Store Black Forest Cake
To store Black Forest Cake, keep it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake, though the texture may change slightly once thawed.
Tips to Make Black Forest Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- For an extra touch, you can soak the cake layers with cherry liqueur for added flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter whipped cream, adjust the powdered sugar according to your taste.
Variation
You can try using different fruits, like raspberries or strawberries, instead of cherries for a twist. Another option is to add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but it may change the consistency slightly.
Q: How do I make the cake less sweet?
A: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter or use less whipped cream between the layers.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day ahead and assemble them just before serving to keep them fresh.
Print
Black Forest Cake
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert featuring rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and creamy whipped cream, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 jar (24 oz) morello cherries, drained and liquid reserved
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are cool, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, moisten with some of the reserved cherry liquid, then spread with a layer of whipped cream and top with cherries. Repeat with the next two layers.
- Place the final layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and additional cherries if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, soak the cake layers with cherry liqueur. Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg