Decadent Black Forest Cake

Short Description
This elegant Black Forest Cake layers moist chocolate cakes with sweet cherry pie filling and fresh whipped cream, topped with chocolate shavings—a classic dessert that’s rich, fruity, and visually stunning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Layered indulgence: Soft chocolate cake combined with juicy cherry filling and light whipped cream—true dessert bliss.

Family‑friendly crowd-pleaser: Perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or dinner parties.

No-fuss process: Standard ingredients and simple steps make this approachable for all bakers.

Great make‑ahead dessert: Assembles easily ahead of time and keeps well in the refrigerator.

ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 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

1 can (about 21 oz) cherry pie filling

Whipped cream, for decoration

Chocolate shavings, for decoration

directions
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease and lightly flour two 9‑inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth—thin consistency is expected.

Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread about half of the cherry pie filling over the surface.

Top with a thick layer of whipped cream.

Place the second cake layer on top. Spread the remaining cherry filling, then pipe or spread whipped cream evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate with chocolate shavings and, if desired, extra cherries from the can.

Servings and timing
Servings: 12 slices

Active prep time: 20 minutes

Baking time: 30–35 minutes

Cooling & assembling time: 45 minutes (including cooling)

Total time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (plus chilling if desired)

Variations
Kirsch enhancement: Drizzle cherry layer with a tablespoon of kirsch (cherry brandy) for authentic Black Forest taste.

Fresh cherry twist: Use fresh or jarred sweet cherries in place of pie filling, and thicken any added juice with a touch of cornstarch.

Chocolate ganache finish: Melt dark chocolate with cream and pour over the chilled cake for a glossy ganache topping.

Gluten‑free option: Substitute a gluten‑free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Layer cake alternative: Bake in three 8-inch pans and create thinner layers with a higher, more dramatic cake profile.

storage/reheating
To store: Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Serving after chilling: Remove from fridge 15 minutes before serving to allow the cake to soften slightly for the best texture.

Freezing option: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs
Why is boiling water used in the batter?
Boiling water helps bloom the cocoa powder, giving the cake a moist texture and deeper chocolate flavor.

Can I skip cooling the cakes completely?
It’s best to cool fully—assembly is easier and the whipped cream will hold its shape better.

What makes a cake “Black Forest”?
True Black Forest Cake contains chocolate layers, tart cherries, whipped cream, and traditionally a hint of kirsch.

Can I make this without eggs?
Yes—with an egg replacement (like applesauce or a commercial egg replacer), but texture may be slightly softer.

How thick should the whipped cream layer be?
A good layer is about ½-inch thick—thicker layers provide better cherry-coat coverage.

My cake cracked while baking—why?
Overmixing the batter or baking at too high a temperature can cause cracking; ensure gentle mixing and accurate oven temperature.

Can I use French cherry pie filling?
Yes—use standard sweet cherry filling available canned or jarred; tart cherries are traditional but not mandatory.

How do I prevent soggy layers?
Use drained cherry filling or blot the cherries with a paper towel before layering to reduce excess juice.

What kind of chocolate is best for shavings?
A block of semi-sweet or dark chocolate produces larger, more elegant curls than pre-shaved bar.

Can I decorate with fresh fruit?
Absolutely—fresh cherries or berries add natural color and freshness to the presentation.

Conclusion
This classic Black Forest Cake brings together moist chocolate layers, luscious cherries, and creamy whipped topping in a beautiful, celebratory dessert. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste and appearance, it’s ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any time you crave a rich, festive treat. Enjoy every deliciously elegant slice!

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