Name: Black Forest Cake with Cherries and Chocolate Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup boiling water; ½ cup water; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup Kirschwasser (cherry brandy); 4 cups heavy whipping cream; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 2 cups sweet cherries, pitted and sliced in half; ½ cup chocolate shavings; 12 whole sweet cherries, for garnish

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Black Forest Cake with Cherries and Chocolate is a stunning dessert that never fails to impress. This classic recipe features moist chocolate cake layers soaked in a rich Kirschwasser syrup, combined with sweet cherries and fluffy whipped cream frosting. Each slice is a heavenly experience, making it the perfect centerpiece for celebrations and special occasions. As you dive into this delightful treat, you will discover a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing!

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Cake with

This Black Forest Cake recipe is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Here are a few reasons to adore it:

Rich chocolate flavor complemented by tart cherries.
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for any celebration or special occasion.
Can easily be customized with various Black Forest Cake variations.
Impressive presentation with minimal effort.
Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.

As a traditional German dessert, this cake embodies comfort and joy, making it a beloved choice for many!

Ingredients for Black Forest Cake with

Gather these items:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup boiling water
½ cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup Kirschwasser (cherry brandy)
4 cups heavy whipping cream
¾ cup powdered sugar
2 cups sweet cherries, pitted and sliced in half
½ cup chocolate shavings
12 whole sweet cherries, for garnish

How to Make Black Forest Cake with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper circles and spray with baking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, instant espresso powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and boiling water together until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth.
Step 4: Divide the batter among the three cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about one hour.
Step 5: Prepare the syrup by combining the water and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then boil for one minute. Remove from heat and whisk in the Kirschwasser. Allow to cool.
Step 6: In a chilled bowl, combine the cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip until soft peaks form, then add vanilla and whip until stiff peaks develop.
Step 7: Run a knife around the edges of each cake pan to loosen the cakes. Invert the first cake layer onto a serving platter. Trim the domed top for an even surface. Soak the layer with the Kirschwasser syrup.
Step 8: Spread about 1 cup of whipped cream over the soaked cake layer. Top with half of the cherries.
Step 9: Place the second cake layer on top, brush with syrup, spread another cup of whipped cream, and sprinkle remaining cherries.
Step 10: Add the final cake layer, brush with syrup, and spread remaining whipped cream. Smooth out the sides and pipe decorative rosettes on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings and whole cherries.

Pro Tips for the Best Black Forest Cake with

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Best Ways to Serve Black Forest Cake with

For the best experience, serve your Black Forest Cake with whipped cream on the side or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It’s also perfect for gatherings, where you can impress guests with its elegant design and rich flavors!

Black Forest Cake with Cherries and Chocolate Delight - Black Forest Cake with - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Black Forest Cake with

To store your cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring back its delicious texture. This is also a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Forest Cake with

What’s the secret to perfect Black Forest Cake with?

The secret lies in soaking the chocolate layers with Kirschwasser syrup, which adds moisture and flavor. Using fresh cherries enhances the cake’s overall taste, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

Can I make Black Forest Cake with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble the cake on the day of serving to maintain the freshness of the whipped cream and cherries.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Black Forest Cake with?

To prevent dryness, avoid overbaking the cake layers. Always check for doneness with a toothpick and ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting, as this will help the cream maintain its shape.

Variations of Black Forest Cake with You Can Try

There are many delicious twists on the traditional recipe. You can experiment by adding layers of chocolate ganache or using different fruits like raspberries for a unique flavor. You can also explore easy Black Forest Cake recipes that use box mixes or alternative ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

For more dessert ideas, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a delightful treat. If you’re interested in other cakes, consider our caramel apple cheesecake bars for a delicious variation!

For additional information on the history of Black Forest Cake, you can visit The Spruce Eats.