Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Germany's most legendary dessert! This Black Forest Chocolate Cake isn't just a recipe—it's a magical symphony of rich chocolate, luscious cherries, and cloud-like whipped cream that will make your dessert dreams come true. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, this show-stopping cake promises to impress and delight everyone who takes a bite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: German
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 jar (24 oz) Morello cherries
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with an electric mixer on medium speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Slowly pour in the boiling water and mix until the batter is smooth and thin. The batter will appear very liquid, which is normal for this recipe.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Gently tap the pans on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from the oven and let cool in pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drain the Morello cherries, reserving the syrup. Pat cherries dry with paper towels.
- Once cakes are completely cool, use a long serrated knife to carefully slice each cake horizontally into two layers.
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Brush with cherry syrup to add moisture and flavor.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream and sprinkle some of the drained cherries over the cream.
- Repeat layering process with remaining cake layers, cream, and cherries, ensuring even distribution.
- Cover the entire cake with remaining whipped cream, creating a smooth finish.
- Optionally, garnish the top with whole or chopped cherries and chocolate shavings.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld and cream to set.
- Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the rich chocolate and cherry flavors of this classic German dessert.
Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the most intense chocolate flavor
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- Don't overmix the batter—this can lead to a tough cake texture
- When draining cherries, save the syrup for extra moisture and flavor
- For the smoothest whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand
- Let the cake rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld
- For a professional finish, use a cake turntable when frosting if possible
- Garnish with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings just before serving for maximum visual appeal
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
