Luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake

 

Luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake: A Decadent Classic You Can Make at Home

Rich, indulgent, and beautifully layered—the Black Forest Cherry Cake, also known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is one of the most iconic European desserts ever created. With its luscious layers of moist chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and juicy cherries, this cake isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration on a plate.

Whether you're baking for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake is the ultimate showstopper. And the best part? With a few simple tips and the right ingredients, you can create this masterpiece right in your own kitchen.

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A Slice of History

Originating in Germany’s Black Forest region (famous for its cherry brandy Kirschwasser), this cake has been delighting dessert lovers for nearly a century. Traditionally, it includes chocolate sponge cake soaked with cherry brandy, layered with whipped cream and cherries, and crowned with dark chocolate shavings.

While some versions skip the alcohol for a family-friendly twist, the essence of the cake—chocolate, cream, and cherries—remains timeless.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chocolate Sponge:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups pitted sour cherries (fresh or jarred)

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp cherry juice or water

• Optional: 2–3 tbsp Kirsch (cherry brandy)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream

• 3 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Dark chocolate shavings or curls

• Whole cherries with stems (fresh or maraschino)

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How to Make It

1. Bake the Chocolate Cake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.

• Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk.

• Combine wet and dry mixtures until smooth.

• Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

• Cool completely before slicing each cake into two layers (you’ll get 4 layers in total).

2. Prepare the Cherry Filling

• In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and cornstarch mixed with juice.

• Cook over medium heat until thickened and glossy.

• Add Kirsch if using. Let it cool completely.

3. Make the Whipped Cream

• Beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

• Keep chilled until ready to use.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Brush lightly with cherry juice or Kirsch.

• Spread a layer of whipped cream, then spoon over some cherry filling.

• Repeat with remaining layers.

• Frost the top and sides with whipped cream.

5. Decorate

• Garnish the top with whole cherries and sprinkle or press chocolate shavings around the sides.

• Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best flavor and firmness.

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Tips for Success

• Use chilled bowls and beaters for making whipped cream—this helps it whip up faster and stay stable.

• Don’t over-soak the layers with liquid—moist is good, soggy is not.

• For a shortcut, you can use high-quality store-bought chocolate cake and doctor it up with homemade cherry filling and whipped cream.

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Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a Black Forest Cherry Cake—it’s nostalgic, romantic, and utterly indulgent. Whether you're a chocolate lover, a cherry enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good dessert, this cake hits all the right notes.

So next time you want to wow your guests (or just treat yourself), remember: a luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake is always a good idea.