Welcome to this delightful recipe for a classic German Black Forest Cake! This dessert is a showstopper with its layers of rich chocolate cake, luscious whipped cream, and sweet cherry filling. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekends, this cake is loved by chocolate and cherry fans alike. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the art of making this iconic German treat!
Introduction
The Black Forest Cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a famous German dessert known for its decadent chocolate layers, whipped cream, and cherry filling. Named after the Black Forest region in Germany, this cake traditionally includes kirschwasser, a cherry liqueur, giving it a distinct flavor. Our recipe simplifies things for home bakers by keeping it alcohol-free while still capturing the cake’s rich, authentic taste. This timeless dessert has become a global favorite, admired for its elegant look and irresistible taste.
Ingredients for German Black Forest Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this stunning German Black Forest Cake. Feel free to explore substitutions or adjustments to suit your dietary needs.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (use plant-based milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (substitute with melted coconut oil if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 ¾ cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups cherry pie filling
- Fresh cherries, for garnish
Each ingredient brings a layer of flavor to this traditional German dessert. The cocoa powder ensures a deep chocolate base, while the whipped cream adds lightness, and the cherries bring a delightful tartness.
How to Make German Black Forest Cake – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four 8-inch round cake pans for an easy release once baked. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they’re well mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Slowly pour in the boiling water, mixing carefully as the batter will thin out.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will be used both between layers and to cover the cake.
Step 5: Assemble the Black Forest Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, followed by a spoonful of cherry filling. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 6: Decorate the Cake
Cover the entire cake with whipped cream, smoothing it for a clean finish. Garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Helpful Tips for German Black Forest Cake
For the best texture and flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh cream. If you’re making the cake ahead, store it in the fridge to keep the whipped cream stable. You can also prepare the cake layers a day in advance, which helps with assembly.
Cooking Tips for the Best German Black Forest Cake
Using a good hand or stand mixer for the batter will ensure it’s well-aerated and light. When whipping the cream, chill the bowl and beaters beforehand; this helps the cream whip faster and hold its shape longer.
Serving Suggestions for German Black Forest Cake
For a traditional presentation, serve your Black Forest Cake with a side of strong coffee or hot chocolate. This dessert also pairs beautifully with a glass of sweet red wine, like a dessert Riesling.
Nutritional Information
While indulgent, this cake does provide some calcium from the whipped cream and vitamins from the cherries. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 6g
Storage and Leftovers for German Black Forest Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, cover only the cut sections with plastic wrap to prevent drying. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for German Black Forest Cake
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature and assemble them with whipped cream and cherries the next day.
2. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Simply cook the cherries with a little sugar and cornstarch until thickened, and use as directed.
3. How can I make a dairy-free version?
Swap the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk, and use coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream.
4. Can I add liqueur to the cake?
Yes, traditionally kirsch is added. You can brush each layer with a bit of cherry liqueur for added depth.
Related Recipes for German Black Forest Cake Lovers
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and tasting this classic German Black Forest Cake. With its rich chocolate layers, fluffy whipped cream, and sweet cherries, it’s a true celebration of flavors and textures. Try it out, share your creations, and let us know any fun twists you come up with!
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German Black Forest Cake Recipe with Cherries & Cream
Description
Welcome to this delightful recipe for a classic German Black Forest Cake! This dessert is a showstopper with its layers of rich chocolate cake, luscious whipped cream, and sweet cherry filling. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekends, this cake is loved by chocolate and cherry fans alike. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the art of making this iconic German treat!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (use plant-based milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (substitute with melted coconut oil if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 ¾ cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups cherry pie filling
- Fresh cherries, for garnish
Each ingredient brings a layer of flavor to this traditional German dessert. The cocoa powder ensures a deep chocolate base, while the whipped cream adds lightness, and the cherries bring a delightful tartness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four 8-inch round cake pans for an easy release once baked. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they’re well mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Slowly pour in the boiling water, mixing carefully as the batter will thin out.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will be used both between layers and to cover the cake.
Step 5: Assemble the Black Forest Cake
Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, followed by a spoonful of cherry filling. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Step 6: Decorate the Cake
Cover the entire cake with whipped cream, smoothing it for a clean finish. Garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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For the best texture and flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh cream. If you’re making the cake ahead, store it in the fridge to keep the whipped cream stable. You can also prepare the cake layers a day in advance, which helps with assembly.
