Black Forest Cake

Black Forest Cake is one of those iconic desserts that always impresses. With layers of moist chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s rich yet light, and absolutely beautiful when sliced. I love making this when I want to serve something elegant, nostalgic, and indulgent all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cake balances rich chocolate with fresh, fruity flavor. The whipped cream keeps it from being too heavy, and the cherry filling adds a bright, juicy contrast to the deep cocoa layers. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions—and it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chocolate cake:

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Buttermilk

• Vegetable oil

• Vanilla extract

• Hot water or coffee (to intensify the chocolate flavor)

For the filling and topping:

• Pitted cherries (fresh, frozen, or jarred)

• Granulated sugar

• Cornstarch (for thickening the cherry filling)

• Kirsch (cherry liqueur) or cherry juice

• Heavy whipping cream

• Powdered sugar

• Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

• Extra cherries (for decorating)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.

2. I whisk the dry ingredients together, then add the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth. I stir in the hot water or coffee last.

3. I divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. I let them cool completely.

4. While the cakes bake, I prepare the cherry filling by simmering cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and kirsch or juice until thickened. Then I cool it completely.

5. I whip the cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

6. I slice each cake layer in half to create four thin layers (optional).

7. I layer the cake with whipped cream and cherry filling between each layer, then frost the top and sides with more whipped cream.

8. I decorate with chocolate shavings and cherries on top, then chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

This cake serves 10–12 people and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours total, including baking, cooling, and assembling (about 1 hour active prep).

Variations

• I use jarred Morello cherries when fresh ones aren’t in season.

• Sometimes I fold a little mascarpone into the whipped cream for added richness.

• I make a cupcake version using the same components in smaller form.

Storage/Reheating

I store the finished cake in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. It actually gets better as it sits, with the flavors melding beautifully. I don’t recommend freezing it once assembled because of the whipped cream, but I freeze the cake layers ahead of time if needed. I serve it cold or let it sit at room temp for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

FAQs

What’s the best type of cherries to use?

I like fresh cherries when they’re in season, but jarred sour cherries or frozen ones work well too. I just avoid using cherry pie filling—it’s too sweet and lacks texture.

Can I make it alcohol-free?

Yes, I skip the kirsch and use cherry juice or syrup from jarred cherries instead. It’s just as flavorful without the liqueur.

How do I keep the whipped cream stable?

I make sure to whip it until firm but not grainy. I also keep the cake refrigerated to maintain its shape.

Do I have to slice the layers in half?

No, but I like doing it for extra layers of flavor. It makes the cake more dramatic and moist.

Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Definitely. I actually prefer making it the night before—chilling helps everything set and enhances the flavor.

Conclusion

Black Forest Cake is a rich, classic dessert that never goes out of style. With layers of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream, it’s the perfect mix of decadent and fresh. Whether I’m celebrating or simply craving a luxurious treat, this cake always delivers beauty and bold flavor.

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