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Black Forest Cake

A delicious and indulgent chocolate cake layered with whipped cream and cherries, perfect for any celebration.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: European, German
Keyword: Black Forest Cake, Celebration Cake, Cherry Dessert, Chocolate Cake, Whipped cream
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of the cake, providing structure.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake perfectly.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Key for obtaining rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Works with baking powder for a fluffy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances and enhances sweetness.
  • 1 cup whole milk Creates a tender crumb.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Adds moisture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses flavor.
  • 1 cup boiling water Makes the batter smooth.

Filling and Topping

  • 2 cups heavy cream Essential for whipped filling.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the whipped cream.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to cream filling.
  • 2 cups pitted and chopped cherries Adds flavor and texture.
  • 1/4 cup cherry brandy (optional) For added depth; replace with cherry juice for non-alcoholic.
  • Chocolate shavings For decoration.
  • Maraschino cherries For topping.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
  • Carefully stir in the boiling water to create a thin batter.
  • Divide the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Filling and Assembling

  • In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until thickening. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, whisk until soft peaks form. Gently fold in chopped cherries.
  • Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate and spread half of the cherry cream filling on top. Add the second layer and spread the remaining filling.
  • Decorate with chocolate shavings and top with maraschino cherries.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Refrigerate the cake to maintain the cream filling. Using cold bowls and beaters enhances whipped cream quality.