Learn how to make the ultimate Black Forest Cake with this easy recipe. Moist chocolate cake layers are filled with a sweet cherry filling and creamy whipped cream. Topped with chocolate shavings and cherries, this cake is perfect for any special occasion or a delightful treat!
Ingredients
- For the Chocolate Cake:
- - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 2 cups granulated sugar
- - 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 2 teaspoons baking powder
- - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- - 1 teaspoon salt
- - 1 cup milk
- - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- - 2 large eggs
- - 1 cup boiling water
- For the Cherry Filling:
- - 4 cups pitted cherries
- - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- - 2 cups heavy cream
- - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Decoration:
- - Chocolate shavings
- - Fresh cherries
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Reduce the speed to low and carefully pour in the boiling water. Mix until the batter is smooth and thin. The batter will be thin, but don't worry, it will bake beautifully.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cakes are baking, prepare the cherry filling. In a saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a separate bowl, make the whipped cream frosting. Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cakes have cooled, level the tops if needed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of cherry filling on top. Top with a layer of whipped cream. Repeat with the second cake layer.
- Frost the sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth edges, based on your preference.
- Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice and serve this delectable Black Forest Cake to your friends and family. Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Black Forest Cake originated in Germany and is named after the Black Forest region.
The traditional Black Forest Cake is made with kirsch, a cherry liqueur, but this recipe uses cherries as a non-alcoholic alternative.
Black Forest Cake is a classic dessert for birthdays and special occasions.