Black Forest Cake Recipe

Introduction

The Black Forest Cake, known in Germany as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a luxurious dessert combining layers of rich chocolate sponge cake, luscious whipped cream, tart cherries, and a decadent chocolate glaze. Its unique balance of sweetness, creaminess, and tang has made it a favorite for birthdays, weddings, and romantic celebrations worldwide.

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History

The cake originates from the Black Forest region in southwestern Germany, famous for its kirsch (cherry brandy) and dark cherries. First documented in the 1930s, it quickly became a European classic. The traditional version uses kirsch for authenticity, but non-alcoholic versions are now equally popular. The combination of chocolate and cherries was inspired by local costumes and flavors — the white cream, red cherries, and dark chocolate resembled the colors of the traditional Bollenhut hat worn by women in the Black Forest.

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Ingredients (Serves 10–12)

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake
• 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (65g) cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Cherry Filling
• 2 cups (300g) pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup (100g) sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ cup (120ml) cherry juice (from can or fresh)
• 2 tbsp kirsch (optional)

For the Whipped Cream
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream (chilled)
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration
• 1 cup (150g) chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh cherries with stems
• Chocolate glaze (optional)

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Instructions / Method

1. Bake the Chocolate Sponge
   1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
   2. In a large bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
   4. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).
   5. Divide batter evenly among pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
   6. Let cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Cherry Filling
   1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and cherry juice.
   2. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
   3. Mix cornstarch with a little water, add to the mixture, and stir until thickened.
   4. Stir in kirsch (optional). Let cool completely.
3. Make the Whipped Cream
   1. Chill mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for 15 minutes.
   2. Beat cream until soft peaks form.
   3. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake
   1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
   2. Spread a layer of whipped cream, then spoon cherry filling over it.
   3. Repeat with second cake layer.
   4. Place final cake layer on top, cover with whipped cream, and smooth the surface.
   5. Drizzle with chocolate glaze (optional) and decorate with whipped cream swirls, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings.

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Benefits
• Mood Booster: Chocolate contains compounds that stimulate serotonin production.
• Antioxidants: Cherries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, supporting heart health.
• Celebratory Dessert: Perfect for special occasions and romantic gestures.

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Formation

The cake is traditionally formed as three or four alternating layers of sponge, cream, and cherries, topped with whipped cream rosettes, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings. The glossy chocolate glaze in your image adds an extra touch of luxury.

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Conclusion

The Black Forest Cake is more than a dessert — it’s a piece of culinary art with cultural roots and romantic symbolism. Its layers tell a story of tradition, flavor harmony, and celebration.

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Lovers’ Note ❤️

This cake has long been associated with romance, partly because of its rich, indulgent flavors and partly because cherries have been seen as symbols of love and passion. Couples often choose it for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or weddings.