Black Forest Cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is an iconic German dessert known for its luxurious layers of rich chocolate sponge, sweet-tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. Traditionally, the cake is infused with kirsch, a cherry brandy, which adds depth and authenticity, but it can also be made without alcohol for a family-friendly version.
This cake is decadent, visually stunning, and perfect for celebrations, from birthdays to special occasions. The combination of moist chocolate layers, luscious whipped cream, and tart cherries makes every bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a showstopper that tastes as good as it looks.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it captures the classic flavors of Black Forest Cake with a perfect balance of chocolate, cherries, and cream.
It’s indulgent yet not overly sweet, and assembling the layers is fun and rewarding. Every slice feels like a little celebration in itself.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- It’s a classic dessert with international fame
- Perfect for birthdays and festive occasions
- Moist chocolate sponge and tart cherries create a perfect harmony
- Whipped cream keeps the cake light and elegant
- Can be customized with or without alcohol
Recipe Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25–30 minutes per cake layer |
| Assembly Time | 20–25 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Servings | 10–12 slices |
| Cuisine | German / European |
| Course | Dessert |
| Calories | ~480 calories per slice |
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tbsp kirsch (optional)
Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Decoration:
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Whole cherries for garnish
Cooking Directions (Summary)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare chocolate cake layers and bake.
- Make cherry filling.
- Whip cream for frosting.
- Assemble cake with layers of cake, cherries, and whipped cream.
- Frost entire cake and decorate with chocolate and cherries.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make Chocolate Cake
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).
- Pour evenly into prepared pans.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in pans, then transfer to wire racks.
Step 4: Prepare Cherry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and cornstarch.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in kirsch (optional). Let cool.
Step 5: Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread half the cherry filling over the layer.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Place second cake layer on top and repeat with remaining cherries and cream.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
- Frost the sides and top with remaining whipped cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and whole cherries.
How to Serve
Slice with a sharp knife for clean layers. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pairs beautifully with:
- Coffee or tea
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
Recipe Tips
- Use room-temperature ingredients for even cake texture.
- For best chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder.
- Chill whipped cream slightly before decorating for easier spreading.
- Slice carefully with a serrated knife for neat layers.
Variations
Dark Chocolate Black Forest
Use dark cocoa powder and dark chocolate shavings for a richer flavor.
Alcohol-Free Version
Omit kirsch and replace with cherry juice or water for family-friendly cake.
Cherry Coconut Twist
Add shredded coconut to whipped cream or sprinkle between layers.
Mixed Berry Version
Combine cherries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Freezing & Storage
| Method | Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (covered) | 3–4 days |
| Freezer (unfrosted layers) | Up to 2 months |
| Freezer (fully assembled) | Up to 1 month, well-wrapped |
Tip: Freeze unfrosted layers for best texture; thaw completely before frosting.
Special Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls and whisk/electric mixer
- Saucepan for cherry filling
- Wire racks for cooling
- Offset spatula for frosting
Conclusion
Black Forest Cake is a stunning, indulgent dessert that brings elegance and joy to any celebration. With its rich chocolate sponge, tart cherries, and luscious whipped cream, it’s a treat for both the eyes and the palate. Whether made for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, this classic cake is sure to impress and delight every slice.
Black Forest Cake
Description
Black Forest Cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is an iconic German dessert known for its luxurious layers of rich chocolate sponge, sweet-tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Layers:
Cherry Filling:
Whipped Cream Frosting:
Decoration:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat Oven : Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.
-
Step 2: Make Chocolate Cake : In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour evenly into prepared pans.
-
Step 3: Bake : Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in pans, then transfer to wire racks.
-
Step 4: Prepare Cherry Filling : In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Stir in kirsch (optional). Let cool.
-
Step 5: Whip the Cream : Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
-
Step 6: Assemble the Cake : Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half the cherry filling over the layer. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top. Place second cake layer on top and repeat with remaining cherries and cream.
-
Step 7: Frost and Decorate : Frost the sides and top with remaining whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate shavings and whole cherries.
