authentic black forest cake recipe

Authentic Black Forest Cake Recipe (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) – Step-by-Step Guide Moist chocolate cake, sweet cherry filling, and pillowy whipped cream – this classic German dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. In this post, you'll learn how to make an authentic Black Forest Cake at home, with all the tips and tricks you need for a flawless result. What Is Black Forest Cake? Black Forest Cake, known in German as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a layered chocolate sponge cake filled with cherries and whipped cream. Traditionally, it includes a splash of Kirsch (a cherry schnapps) for that signature flavor. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions – and it’s surprisingly simple to make from scratch! Ingredients You'll Need For the Chocolate Sponge Cake: 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 4 large eggs 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter 1 tsp vanilla extract For the Cherry Filling: 2 cups (500g) pitted sour cherries (fresh or canned) 1/2 cup (100g) sugar 2 tbsp cornstarch 2 tbsp Kirsch (optional, but traditional) For the Whipped Cream: 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract For Decoration: Chocolate shavings or curls Extra cherries (fresh or maraschino) Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Sponge Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar for 5–6 minutes until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in the dry ingredients. Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla; mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 20–25 minutes. Let cakes cool completely before slicing each horizontally for 4 layers. Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling In a saucepan, add cherries and sugar. Bring to a simmer. Dissolve cornstarch in a few tablespoons of water and add to the cherries. Stir until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Add Kirsch, then cool completely. Step 3: Whip the Cream Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Chill in the fridge until ready to use. Step 4: Assemble the Cake Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream, then spoon over cherry filling. Repeat with remaining layers. Cover the entire cake with whipped cream. Step 5: Decorate Press chocolate shavings onto the sides and top. Pipe cream rosettes on top and place a cherry on each. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving. Tips for the Perfect Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte Make it alcohol-free: Omit Kirsch or use cherry juice for a kid-friendly version. Use stabilized whipped cream if you need the cake to last more than 2 days. Chill between layers while assembling to avoid cream slipping. Frequently Asked Questions Can I use canned cherries? Yes! Just drain well. Use the juice for the filling base or to soak sponge layers. How long does Black Forest Cake last? It stays fresh in the fridge for 2–3 days. Store in an airtight container. Can I freeze it? You can freeze the cake without whipped cream. Assemble fresh after thawing. Storage and Serving Suggestions Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Serve chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or espresso. More German Dessert Recipes You’ll Love: [German Apple Cake (Apfelkuchen)] [Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)] [Easy Streuselkuchen Recipe] Black Forest Cake Recipe Card Prep Time: 45 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Servings: 12 slices Calories per slice: ~360 Ingredients: (See above) Instructions: Bake sponge layers. Prepare cherry filling. Whip cream. Assemble and chill. Decorate and enjoy! Rating: ★★★★★ (Leave your review below)