Ah, the *Black Forest Cake*! Just saying the name brings a smile to my face. This delightful dessert is a true classic, with its luscious layers of moist chocolate cake, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. Each slice is like a little piece of heaven! I remember the first time I tried it at a family gathering. My aunt had made it, and I was instantly smitten. The rich chocolate paired with the tartness of the cherries was such a perfect match. It’s no wonder this cake has become a staple at birthdays and celebrations! It reminds me of joy, laughter, and those sweet moments spent with loved ones around the dining table. Plus, the beauty of this cake is that it’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes, with its stunning layers and elegant garnishes. I promise, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake will bring happiness to your day!

Ingredients for Black Forest Cake

Now, let’s gather what we need to create this heavenly Black Forest Cake! It’s important to have everything ready before you dive into mixing. Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll be using:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free option, feel free to use a gluten-free flour blend)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (this gives our cake that rich chocolate flavor)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature for best results)
• 1 cup whole milk (almond milk works well if you prefer a dairy-free version)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (this helps keep the cake moist)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (it seems unusual, but trust me, it makes the batter silky smooth!)
• 1 jar (24 oz) Morello cherries, drained (you can also use fresh cherries if you like)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (for that light and fluffy topping)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to your taste if you prefer less sweetness)
• Chocolate shavings for garnish (because we all love a little extra chocolate!)

Having high-quality ingredients makes a big difference, so if you can, go for the best you can find. Let’s get ready to bake this delicious treat!

How to Prepare Black Forest Cake

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delightful Black Forest Cake! I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and I’ll guide you through each step. Ready? Let’s do this!

Prepping the Cake Layers

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for a perfectly baked cake! While that’s warming up, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them with butter or a bit of oil, then sprinkle a little flour in. This helps the cakes release easily once they’re baked. You can even line the bottom with parchment paper for extra assurance!

Mixing the Batter

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together well to make sure everything’s evenly mixed. Next, add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. This is where the magic begins! Use a hand mixer or a whisk to mix until it’s smooth and creamy. Finally, carefully stir in the boiling water. It might seem strange, but this step ensures the batter is silky and helps the cake stay moist!

Baking and Cooling

Once your batter is ready, pour it evenly into the prepared pans. Pop those into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Now, after baking, let them sit in the pans for about 10 minutes. This is important! Then, gently transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. Let’s be careful here—those pans are hot, so use oven mitts!

Assembling the Cake

When your cakes are cool, it’s time to assemble! Slice each cake in half horizontally, giving you four layers to work with. Place one layer on your serving plate, and spread a layer of cherries and whipped cream on top. Repeat this with the next layer, and finish with the last layer. Now, cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream and sprinkle those lovely chocolate shavings on top. Wow, doesn’t it look beautiful? Chill it in the fridge for a bit before serving to let those flavors meld together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this delicious Black Forest Cake! Here are just a few that I think you’ll absolutely appreciate:

• Rich Flavor: The combination of moist chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and creamy whipped topping creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Festive Appearance: With its stunning layers and chocolate shavings, this cake is a showstopper at any gathering!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with fresh fruits, different flavors of whipped cream, or even a hint of liqueur for an adult twist.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive look, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a family gathering, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

Trust me, once you try making this cake, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this delightful Black Forest Cake, here are a few tips to ensure you achieve the best results!

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh cherries for the best flavor. If you can, choose organic ingredients; you’ll taste the difference!
• Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When mixing your batter, be gentle. Overmixing can make your cake dense instead of light and airy.
• Whipping Cream Technique: When whipping the cream, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold. This helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better. Stop whipping when you see stiff peaks—over-whipping can turn it into butter!
• Chill Before Serving: Don’t skip the chilling step after assembling! It allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning and delicious Black Forest Cake that everyone will love. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s take a look at the nutritional information for our delightful Black Forest Cake. These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Here’s what you can expect per slice:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 25g

This cake is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. It’s perfect for special occasions, and with these numbers in mind, you can indulge a little guilt-free!

FAQ Section

I know that when it comes to baking, questions can pop up! So, let’s tackle some common queries about our beloved Black Forest Cake:

How should I store leftover Black Forest Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you have a lot left, you can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using, as excess moisture can affect the cake.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping instead of heavy cream. Alternatively, full-fat coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld. You can bake the layers ahead of time, cool them completely, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble!

What goes well with Black Forest Cake when serving?
I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side. Fresh berries also make a lovely addition for a pop of color and flavor!

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions—happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious Black Forest Cake, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh and tasty! First, make sure the cake is completely cooled before storing. If you have any slices left, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its flavor and moisture, and it should last about 3-4 days.

If you find yourself with a lot of cake left, you can wrap the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. No need to reheat—this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, allowing all those rich flavors to shine!

Suggestions for Serving

When it comes to serving your beautiful Black Forest Cake, there are plenty of delightful ideas to make it even more special! I love to present it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side—it’s a classic combination that complements the rich chocolate and tart cherries perfectly. You can also add a dollop of extra whipped cream on top for that dreamy texture, or sprinkle some fresh berries around the plate for a burst of color and freshness.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it with a warm cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate. The combination of flavors will surely impress your guests! For a little extra flair, you can garnish each slice with a cherry on top or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Whatever you choose, this cake is bound to steal the spotlight and bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Black Forest Cake: A 5-Layer Delight for Cozy Moments

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic dessert with layers of chocolate cake, cherries, and whipped cream.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 jar (24 oz) Morello cherries, drained
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• Chocolate shavings for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
4. Slowly stir in boiling water until well combined.
5. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Whip the cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
9. Once cakes are cool, slice each cake in half horizontally.
10. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread with cherries and whipped cream.
11. Add the second layer and repeat. Top with the last layer and cover the cake with remaining whipped cream.
12. Garnish with chocolate shavings. Chill before serving.

Notes

• For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• Use fresh cherries if preferred.
• For less sweetness, reduce the sugar in the whipped cream.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

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