Black Forest cake with cherries and chocolate

Black Forest Cake is a classic German dessert known for its rich chocolate layers, creamy whipped cream, and tart cherries. Here’s a detailed recipe to help you create this delicious treat:

Black Forest Cake with Cherries and Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups pitted fresh or frozen cherries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• ¼ cup Kirsch (cherry schnapps) or cherry juice (optional)
• Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate (for garnish)
• Whole cherries (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

5. Add boiling water: Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.

6. Bake: 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. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. Cook cherries: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and the mixture starts to thicken, about 10 minutes.

2. Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker filling, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream

1. Whip cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a knife to create an even surface.

2. Soak cake layers: If using, brush or drizzle the cake layers with Kirsch or cherry juice to add flavor and moisture.

3. Layer cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by a portion of the cherry filling.

4. Add second layer: Place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake.

5. Garnish: Decorate with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate and whole cherries.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

2. Slice and enjoy: Slice the cake and serve chilled.

This Black Forest Cake with Cherries and Chocolate is a decadent and elegant dessert that combines rich chocolate, tangy cherries, and creamy whipped cream. It’s perfect for any celebration or special occasion. Enjoy!