German Black Forest Cake

Indulge in the decadent layers of a classic German Black Forest Cake, a showstopping dessert that masterfully combines rich chocolate sponge, juicy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream. This authentic recipe highlights the perfect balance of flavors, with a touch of Kirsch (cherry brandy) adding a traditional flair. Topped with luscious chocolate shavings and bursting with tart cherries, every bite is a celebration of texture and taste. Perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner party finale, this elegant cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll create a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests.

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 120 grams All-purpose flour
• 40 grams Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 125 grams Butter
• 200 grams Granulated sugar
• 3 Eggs
• 120 milliliters Whole milk
• 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 500 grams Canned dark cherries (pitted, in syrup)
• 60 milliliters Kirsch (cherry brandy)
• 500 milliliters Heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 60 grams Powdered sugar
• 100 grams Chocolate shavings

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4

Mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.

Step 5

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7

Drain the canned cherries, reserving the syrup in a small bowl. Mix the syrup with the kirsch and set aside.

Step 8

Using a hand or stand mixer, whip the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.

Step 9

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush the top generously with the kirsch-syrup mixture. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake and scatter half of the cherries on top.

Step 10

Place the second cake layer on top. Brush its surface with the remaining kirsch-syrup mixture. Spread whipped cream all over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 11

Decorate the cake with the remaining cherries and cover the sides and top with chocolate shavings.

Step 12

Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together. Slice and serve!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1494.9 grams (1494.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5206

Total Fat 351.10g	450%
Saturated Fat 208.00g	1040%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.30g
Cholesterol 1453mg	484%
Sodium 2959mg	129%
Total Carbohydrate 460.40g	167%
Dietary Fiber 21.70g	78%
Total Sugars 331.10g
Protein 60.40g	121%

Vitamin D 431IU	2154%
Calcium 762mg	59%
Iron 22mg	122%
Potassium 2179mg	46%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.3%

Protein: 4.6%

Carbs: 35.1%