Decadent Black Forest Cake: A Step-By-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 jar (24 oz) Morello cherries, drained and juice reserved
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 cups dark chocolate shavings

Steps and instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and 2 tsp vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Mix well until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Gradually add boiling water to the batter, mixing continuously. The batter will be thin, but that's okay.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cherry filling. Reserve about half of the cherries for decorating the cake. Chop the remaining cherries and mix them with 1/2 cup of the reserved juice.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with confectioners' sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks.
Once the cakes have cooled completely, cut each one horizontally into two layers.
Place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread a third of the cherry filling over the cake, followed by a third of the whipped cream. Repeat this process with two more layers.
Top with the last layer of cake and cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate the top of the cake with the reserved cherries and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the cake batter.
Whisk - Used to mix the dry ingredients and incorporate air into the batter.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - To measure the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
Cake Pans - Two 9-inch round pans to bake the cake layers.
Toothpick - To check if the cakes are fully baked.
Wire Rack - To cool the cakes after baking.
Knife - To slice the cakes horizontally into layers.
Spatula - To spread the cherry filling and whipped cream onto the cake layers.
Cake Stand or Serving Plate - To assemble and present the finished cake.
Cherry Pitter - Optional, but helpful for removing the pits from fresh cherries.
Grater or Vegetable Peeler - To create chocolate shavings for garnishing the cake.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of flour such as whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier alternative.
Experiment with different types of fruit fillings like raspberry, strawberry, or mixed berries.
Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for an extra decadent touch.
Replace the whipped cream topping with cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
Add a splash of cherry liqueur or rum to the cherry filling for an adult version of the cake.
Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour blend and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Make a vegan version by substituting eggs with flax eggs and using non-dairy milk and whipped cream alternatives.
Introduce a nutty element by adding chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts to the cherry filling or sprinkling them on top.
Experiment with different types of chocolate such as white chocolate or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter option, replace some or all of the oil with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delicious Black Forest Cake recipe! This recipe hails from Germany and is traditionally known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. The cake gets its name from a special type of liquor produced in the Black Forest region, known for imparting a distinctive cherry pit flavor to the dessert. Our Black Forest Cake recipe is a delightful combination of chocolate, cherries, and cream. It features layers of rich, moist chocolate cake filled with a cherry and cream mixture, then it's all topped with more cream, cherries, and dark chocolate shavings. This is not just a cake, but a work of art that is sure to impress your guests with both its aesthetic appeal and taste. The layers of different textures and flavors come together to create a unique and satisfying dessert experience. The recipe may seem complex at first glance, but don't worry - we've broken it down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Plus, the reward at the end is well worth the effort. Pour yourself a cup of coffee or a glass of milk and prepare to indulge in a piece of Black Forest heaven!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture, or with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, note that this might slightly affect the taste and texture of the cake.
Can I use a different fruit filling? Yes, if you prefer a different fruit filling, you can substitute the Morello cherries with your choice of fruit. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and texture accordingly.
Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy whipping cream? Yes, you can use whipped topping as a substitute for heavy whipping cream if desired. However, the texture and taste may differ slightly.
Can I make the cake in advance? Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Assemble the cake and add the whipped cream and decorations shortly before serving.
How should I store the leftover cake? Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowls - You'll need mixing bowls to combine the dry ingredients and to mix the cake batter.
Whisk - A whisk is useful for blending the batter and ensuring there are no lumps.
Measuring cups and spoons - These are essential for accurately measuring the ingredients.
Cake pans - You'll need two 9-inch cake pans to bake the cake layers.
Wire rack - A wire rack is necessary for cooling the baked cake layers.
Cake stand or serving plate - You'll need a cake stand or serving plate to assemble and present the cake.
Knife - A knife will be used to slice the cake layers horizontally and for decorating purposes.
Spatula - A spatula is helpful for spreading the cherry filling and whipped cream on the cake layers.
Grater - A grater is needed to create dark chocolate shavings for garnishing the cake.
Refrigerator - The cake needs to be refrigerated for a few hours before serving, so a refrigerator is necessary.

Origin stories

Black Forest Cake, known in its native German as "Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte,” has roots that run deep through the heart of Germany’s culinary history. The cake's name is derived from Schwarzwald, the Black Forest region in southwestern Germany. The cake, a decadent combination of cherries, cream, and dark chocolate, is rumored to have been inspired by the traditional costume of the region, which includes a black or brown woolen hat, a white blouse, and a full, cherry-red pom-pom bobble. The dark chocolate cake represents the hat, the whipped cream signifies the blouse, and the cherries echo the red bobble. The kirsch, or cherry schnapps, that is often used in the cake is a tip of the hat to the distilleries located in the Black Forest region. So, each bite of this luscious dessert is a nod to a flavorful tradition and a vibrant culture that dates back centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.