Ultimate Black Forest Cake

why make this recipe

Black Forest Cake is a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with cherries and cream. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a special treat for yourself. The luxurious layers of chocolate combined with the freshness of cherries create a delightful taste that will leave everyone wanting more. Making this cake from scratch is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to customize it to your liking!

how to make Ultimate Black Forest Cake

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally.
9. In another bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
10. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
11. Spread some cherry juice over this layer, followed by cherries and whipped cream.
12. Add the next layer of cake and repeat until all layers are stacked.
13. Frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings.
14. Refrigerate before serving.

how to serve Ultimate Black Forest Cake

Serve the Ultimate Black Forest Cake chilled. You can slice it into generous pieces and place it on dessert plates. For an extra special touch, add a few fresh cherries or more chocolate shavings on top of each serving.

how to store Ultimate Black Forest Cake

You can store the Black Forest Cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’s best eaten within 3-4 days to enjoy the flavors at their peak.

tips to make Ultimate Black Forest Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• For extra moisture, brush the cake layers with cherry juice before adding the cream and cherries.
• Use fresh cherries when they are in season for the best flavor.
• Consider chilling your mixing bowl and beaters when whipping cream to help it whip up faster.

variation

You can add a splash of Kirsch (cherry schnapps) to the cake layers or the whipped cream for an adult version of this dessert. Alternatively, you can use a chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a richer topping.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake layers ahead of time. Just store them individually wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling.

2. Can I freeze Black Forest Cake?
Definitely! You can freeze the individual cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

3. What kind of cherries should I use?
Morello cherries are great for their tart flavor, but you can also use sweet cherries or even cherry pie filling if you prefer. Just adjust the sweetness in the whipped cream if using sweetened cherry filling.