Why You’ll Love This Cake
If you’re craving a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, this Black Forest Cake is the perfect choice. Unlike ordinary chocolate cakes, it combines rich cocoa layers with cherries and whipped cream for a flavor that’s timeless and crowd-pleasing.
It looks bakery-worthy but is simple enough to make at home. Whether for birthdays, family gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat, this cake always earns compliments.
What Makes It Special
- Simple yet elegant—straightforward steps with a stunning result.
- Light and balanced—whipped cream keeps it sweet without being heavy.
- Versatile—ideal for celebrations or casual desserts.
- Classic flavors—chocolate, cherries, and cream—never go out of style.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Cherry Filling
- 2 cups fresh or canned pitted cherries
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp Kirsch (optional)
For the Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries
Equipment
Mixing bowls, measuring cups/spoons, whisk or hand mixer, spatula, two 9-inch cake pans, parchment paper, cooling rack, saucepan, pastry bag (optional), and cake stand.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pans – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch pans.
- Make the batter – Whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth, then stir in boiling water.
- Bake – Divide batter between pans. Bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
- Cherry filling—Cook cherries and sugar in a saucepan until juicy. Stir in cornstarch paste to thicken. Add Kirsch if desired. Cool, completely.
- Whipped cream—Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble—Place one cake layer on a stand. Spread whipped cream, then cherry filling. Top with the second layer. Frost the cake with whipped cream.
- Decorate—Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.
- Chill—Refrigerate 2–3 hours before serving for best flavor.
Notes & Tips
- Use quality ingredients—premium cocoa and fresh cherries elevate the flavor.
- Layer evenly—balance chocolate, cream, and cherries for the perfect bite.
- Chill before serving—enhances texture and taste.
- Decorate last-minute—add chocolate shavings and cherries just before serving.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Fat: ~25 g (Sat. Fat ~15 g)
- Cholesterol: ~90 mg
- Sodium: ~300 mg
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g (Sugars ~25 g, Fiber ~3 g)
- Protein: ~5 g
Serving Ideas
Pair with:
- Hot coffee or espresso ☕
- Vanilla ice cream 🍨
- Extra whipped cream 🍦
- Fresh cherries 🍒
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest Cake is a classic that never disappoints. With moist chocolate layers, sweet cherries, and airy whipped cream, it’s both simple and impressive. Perfect for celebrations or just a weekend indulgence, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.
