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Black forest cake

Black Forest Cake Recipe: Bake Like a Pro

A classic German dessert, this Black Forest Cake is a rich, decadent combination of moist chocolate layers, whipped cream, and luscious cherry filling. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent moments, it’s a timeless favorite for chocolate and cherry lovers!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Cake:
  • 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
  • For the Cherry Filling:
  • 2 cups (480ml) pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For Garnish:
  • Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls
  • Maraschino cherries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cake:
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  3. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
  5. Stir in the boiling water slowly, ensuring the batter is smooth (it will be thin).
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Make the Cherry Filling:
  9. In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  10. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
  11. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting:
  12. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  13. Assemble the Cake:
  14. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by an even layer of cherry filling.
  15. Place the second cake layer on top and spread whipped cream over the entire cake.
  16. Use the remaining whipped cream to frost the sides and top.
  17. Decorate with shaved chocolate, chocolate curls, and maraschino cherries if desired. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh cherries for a more natural flavor, or canned cherries for convenience.
  • Chill the whipped cream frosting bowl and whisk for faster and better results.
  • For a boozy twist, brush the cake layers with cherry liqueur before assembling.
  • Author: Mateo
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: German
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 365 kcal
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: black forest cake, chocolate cherry dessert, German dessert