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Decadent Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

Decadent Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake

There's something incredibly nostalgic about a slice of Black Forest cake. The combination of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream takes me back to family gatherings where dessert was the highlight of the evening. This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a simple way to create memorable moments in the kitchen.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: German
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour This is the base of your cake.
  • 1.75 cups granulated sugar Sweetness that balances the cocoa.
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder The star of the show for that rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda Works with baking powder for a perfect texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • 2 large eggs Adds moisture and structure.
  • 1 cup whole milk Keeps the cake tender.
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil Ensures a moist crumb.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract A lovely aromatic touch.
  • 1 cup boiling water Brings everything together.
For the Cherry Filling
  • 2 cups pitted cherries The juicy goodness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the filling.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Thickens the mixture.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adds a zesty brightness.
For the Whipped Cream Frosting
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream For that luscious frosting.
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the cream.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract More vanilla goodness.
For Garnish
  • Chocolate shavings

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Cake Pans

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  3. Step 3: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Then stir in the boiling water until well combined.
  4. Step 4: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them from the pans and cooling completely on wire racks.
  5. Step 5: For the cherry filling, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  6. Step 6: For the whipped cream frosting, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
  7. Step 7: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cherry filling over the top, then add a layer of whipped cream frosting. Place the second cake layer on top.
  8. Step 8: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate shavings and any remaining cherry filling.
  9. Step 9: Slice and serve. Enjoy every bite of your Decadent Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake!

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake layers (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months.