Name: Black Forest Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 can cherry pie filling; Whipped cream; Chocolate shavings

Jump to Recipe

Black Forest Cake is a delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with sweet cherry filling and fluffy whipped cream. This delightful treat originates from Germany, and its layers of indulgence make it perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Black Forest Cake. It’s not just a stunning dessert; it’s also packed with flavors that everyone loves. The combination of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream creates a harmonious blend that feels like a special treat. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to impress family and friends, this cake is sure to be a hit!

How to Make Black Forest Cake

Making a Black Forest Cake is fun and straightforward. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a memorable dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 can cherry pie filling
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings

Directions

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix well.
Gradually stir in the boiling water until well combined — note that the batter will be thin.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and place in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread cherry pie filling over the top.
Add the second layer on top, then cover the entire cake with whipped cream, ensuring all sides are covered.
Garnish with chocolate shavings and additional cherry pie filling, if desired.
Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

How to Serve Black Forest Cake

Serve the Black Forest Cake chilled. It’s perfect as a dessert after dinner or for a sweet snack. Just slice and enjoy! You can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

How to Store Black Forest Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. If you have leftover slices, make sure they are covered in whipped cream to keep them moist.

Tips to Make Black Forest Cake

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Do not skip the chilling step; it helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Decorate your cake creatively with extra cherries or chocolate decorations for a festive touch.

Variation

For a twist, you can use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling. You can also add a layer of chocolate ganache for a richer flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries if you prefer a different flavor.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and assemble them the next day.

3. Is there a gluten-free version of Black Forest Cake?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.