Black Forest Loaf Cake

Introduction

Black Forest Loaf Cake is a delicious twist on the classic Black Forest cake. It combines rich chocolate flavor with the sweetness of cherries and a creamy topping. This loaf cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a special celebration. With its moist texture and delightful taste, anyone who tries it will be asking for seconds!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it brings together wonderful flavors in a simple loaf form. The combination of cherries soaked in kirsch, dark chocolate, and whipped cream creates a fantastic dessert that will impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require complex baking skills!

How to Make Black Forest Loaf Cake

Ingredients

200g unsalted butter (softened)
200g light or dark brown sugar (packed)
150g self-raising flour
50g cocoa powder
4 medium eggs
200g cherries soaked in kirsch
100g dark chocolate chips
Kirsch (for soaking and flavor)
300ml double cream (whipped)
2 tbsp icing sugar
100g cherry jam
Fresh cherries
Dark chocolate curls

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C Fan) and line a 2lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add in the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and eggs. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.
Drain the cherries from the kirsch but keep the liquid. Gently fold the cherries and dark chocolate chips into the batter.
Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
After baking, drizzle about 8-10 tablespoons of the reserved kirsch over the warm cake. Allow it to soak in and cool in the tin for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Whip the double cream and icing sugar together until it’s softly whipped.
Gently swirl in the cherry jam and a spoonful of kirsch if you like.
Spread the whipped cream mix on top of the cooled cake.
Garnish with fresh cherries and dark chocolate curls.

How to Serve Black Forest Loaf Cake

Serve this delicious loaf cake sliced, with extra whipped cream on the side. It pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy it as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat at any gathering!

How to Store Black Forest Loaf Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving again!

Tips to Make Black Forest Loaf Cake

Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
Don’t skip soaking the cherries in kirsch, as it adds great flavor.
For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.

Variation

You can try using different fruits, like raspberries or blackberries, instead of cherries for a different flavor. Additionally, you can use milk chocolate chips instead of dark if you prefer a sweeter taste.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake without alcohol?
A1: Yes, you can omit the kirsch and still enjoy a tasty cake. Just substitute it with a bit of cherry juice to soak the cake.

Q2: How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
A2: You can add more cocoa powder to the batter, or even incorporate chocolate chunks for an extra chocolatey flavor.

Q3: Can I freeze Black Forest Loaf Cake?
A3: Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Black Forest Loaf Cake! Happy Baking!