Name: Black Forest Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup boiling water; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chopped cherries; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling); 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream); Chocolate chips (for garnish); Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is a delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with cherries and whipped cream. This German classic is known for its layers of moist chocolate cake, sweet cherry filling, and fluffy cream. It’s a perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, and special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Black Forest Cake at home is a rewarding experience. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also allows you to impress family and friends with your baking skills. The combination of flavors and textures in this cake makes it a favorite for many. Plus, you can enjoy this delightful dessert fresh from your kitchen!

How to Make Black Forest Cake

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup boiling water
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped cherries
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream)
Chocolate chips (for garnish)
Maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch pans.
Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined. Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cherry filling: In a saucepan, cook the chopped cherries with water and sugar over medium heat. Mix the cornstarch with a little water, then stir it into the cherry mixture to thicken it. Remove from heat and let cool.
Whipping cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assembly: Take one cake layer and spread the cherry filling on top. Add a layer of whipped cream. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
Decorate: Finally, add chocolate chips and maraschino cherries on top for that classic Black Forest look.

How to Serve Black Forest Cake

Serve slices of Black Forest Cake on dessert plates. This cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also add some extra whipped cream or cherries on the side for decoration.

How to Store Black Forest Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it without the whipped cream and cherries.

Tips to Make Black Forest Cake

Use high-quality cocoa powder for better flavor.
Make sure the cherries are pitted before chopping.
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better results.
For a richer cake, consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling.

Variation

You can make a variation of Black Forest Cake by adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers or using other fruits like raspberries or strawberries.

FAQs

1. Can I make Black Forest Cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Assemble the cake just before serving for best results.

2. What kind of cherries should I use?
You can use fresh, frozen, or jarred cherries. If using jarred cherries, choose those in juice rather than syrup for a fresher taste.

3. Can I use a different type of cream?
While heavy cream is recommended for whipping, you can use whipped topping if you prefer a non-dairy option. Just make sure it’s well-chilled before using.

Enjoy making and sharing your delicious Black Forest Cake!