Name: Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-490439H55M49S
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1/4 cup kirsch (cherry brandy); 2 cups canned or fresh sour cherries, pitted; 2 cups whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) Recipe

This Black Forest Cake is the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence. The soft, moist chocolate sponge layers are soaked with cherry syrup and stacked with sweet-tart cherries and fluffy whipped cream, making every bite a balance of richness and lightness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake brings a wow factor both in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Butter (melted)
Kirsch (cherry brandy)
Canned or fresh sour cherries (pitted)
Whipping cream
Powdered sugar
Dark chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers: Preheat your oven and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and melted butter. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients to form a smooth batter. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely.
Soak the Cake Layers: Drain the cherries and reserve the juice. Mix some of the cherry juice with kirsch and brush it generously over each cooled cake layer to keep them moist and flavorful.
Make the Whipped Cream: In a cold mixing bowl, beat the whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Keep it chilled until ready to use.
Assemble the Cake: Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream and scatter some cherries over the top. Repeat with the second layer. Place the final cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with whipped cream.
Decorate: Garnish the cake with chocolate shavings or curls and extra cherries on top for a traditional finish.
Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least a few hours (preferably overnight) to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 10 to 12 people.
Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cooling and assembly time: 2 to 4 hours (including chilling)
Total time: Approximately 3.5 to 5 hours

Variations

Alcohol-Free Version: Omit the kirsch and use cherry juice or syrup instead for a non-alcoholic version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to replace all-purpose flour.
Cupcake Style: Turn this into individual Black Forest cupcakes by baking the batter in muffin tins and topping with cream and cherries.
Chocolate Ganache Topping: Replace or supplement the whipped cream topping with a rich chocolate ganache.
Fresh Cherry Option: Use fresh cherries when in season for a more natural flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Black Forest Cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
This cake is not ideal for freezing due to the whipped cream, but you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What is the origin of Black Forest Cake?

Black Forest Cake originated in Germany’s Black Forest region and is traditionally known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.

Can I make Black Forest Cake without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the kirsch with cherry juice or syrup to make an alcohol-free version.

What kind of cherries should I use?

Sour cherries are traditional, but sweet cherries can also be used depending on preference and availability.

Can I use whipped topping instead of real cream?

You can use stabilized whipped topping, but fresh whipped cream gives the best texture and flavor.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Use cold equipment, don’t overbeat the cream, and serve the cake chilled to help the whipped cream maintain its shape.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded. Make it a day ahead and refrigerate overnight.

Can I use chocolate cake mix for convenience?

You can use a high-quality chocolate cake mix if you’re short on time, but from-scratch gives a more authentic result.

How do I make chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler to shave a bar of dark chocolate or use a knife to make curls for garnishing.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze the whole cake with cream, but unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for later use.

What makes Black Forest Cake different from a regular chocolate cake?

The combination of cherries, whipped cream, and kirsch sets it apart from standard chocolate cakes and gives it a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

Black Forest Cake is a show-stopping dessert that brings together layers of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and light whipped cream in perfect harmony. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, birthday, or simply want to indulge in something special, this traditional German cake is sure to impress. With its beautiful presentation and unforgettable taste, it’s a timeless treat worth making from scratch.