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Black Forest Cake

A classic German dessert layered with rich chocolate, creamy whipped cream, and tart cherries, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Celebration, Dessert
Cuisine: German
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder High-quality cocoa powder will enhance the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs Can substitute with aquafaba for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk Use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup cherries, soaked in Kirschwasser
  • 1/4 cup Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur) Substitutable with cherry juice mixed with vodka.
  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings Use high-quality dark chocolate.
  • additional cherries for decoration
For the Whipped Cream
  • 2 cups heavy cream Can substitute with whipped yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, blending until combined.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Whipping Cream and Assembling
  1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  2. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, brush with Kirschwasser, and spread a layer of whipped cream over it.
  3. Add a layer of cherries, then place the second layer on top and repeat the steps with the second layer.
  4. Garnish the top and sides with chocolate shavings and additional cherries.

Notes

For easier assembly, freeze cake layers in advance. Make sure to thaw before decorating. To enhance the flavor, consider adding espresso powder to the batter.