Black Forest Cake Recipe – Classic German Chocolate

The Black Forest Cake Recipe is a classic German dessert known for its rich chocolate layers, luscious cherry filling, and whipped cream frosting. This decadent cake, also known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, originates from Germany’s Black Forest region and is loved worldwide for its balance of sweetness, slight tartness, and indulgent textures. Perfect for celebrations, birthdays, and special occasions, this homemade version captures the authentic flavors with simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create an elegant and delicious Black Forest Cake from scratch.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Active Time: 40 minutes
• Resting Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Cuisine: German
• Course: Dessert
• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

Equipment

• 2 (8-inch) round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula
• Offset spatula (for frosting)
• Cooling rack
• Serrated knife (for leveling layers)
• Piping bag (optional, for decoration)

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup cherry juice (from canned cherries or fresh juice)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp Kirsch (cherry brandy, optional)

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnishing:

• Chocolate shavings (from a dark chocolate bar)
• Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin but smooth.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Step 2: Bake the Cakes

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
3. Transfer to a wire rack and let them cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cherry Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, cherry juice, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Kirsch if using. Let it cool completely.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

1. In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cake layers using a serrated knife if necessary.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread half of the cherry filling evenly over it.
3. Add a layer of whipped cream on top of the cherries.
4. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining cherry filling and whipped cream.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

1. Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
2. Decorate the sides and top with chocolate shavings.
3. Garnish with maraschino or fresh cherries.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
2. Slice and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Black Forest Cake

• Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder – This enhances the deep chocolate flavor.
• Kirsch for Authenticity – While optional, cherry brandy adds traditional depth to the filling.
• Chill the Cake Before Slicing – This helps firm up the layers and makes slicing easier.
• Shave Chocolate from a Bar – Using a vegetable peeler on a chocolate bar creates perfect shavings.
• Adjust Sweetness – If using canned cherries, reduce added sugar to balance flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy your Black Forest Cake with:

• A cup of hot espresso or cappuccino
• A glass of cherry liqueur or dessert wine
• A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream

Conclusion

This Black Forest Cake Recipe brings the authentic flavors of Germany into your kitchen with its rich chocolate layers, tangy cherry filling, and airy whipped cream frosting. Perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat, this homemade version is easy to follow and sure to impress. Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate chocolate-cherry delight!