Black Forest Cake Recipe: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever wanted to create a dessert that looks beautiful and tastes even better, the Black Forest cake recipe is a must-try. This chocolate-cherry masterpiece, also known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a beloved treat across the globe. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this guide will walk you through the process—just like our red velvet cake recipe—in a way that’s simple and fun.

What Is a Black Forest Cake?

Black Forest cake is a layered chocolate sponge cake—similar in structure to an easy vanilla cake recipe—filled with whipped cream and cherries. Traditionally, it’s flavored with cherry liqueur (Kirsch), but you can easily make it alcohol-free. It combines sweet, tart, and creamy in every bite.

Ingredients You Need

Let’s break down what you need to make this classic cake at home.

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot water or coffee

For the Filling and Topping:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 jar (about 16 oz) maraschino cherries or fresh cherries (pitted)
• 1/2 cup cherry syrup (from the jar or homemade)
• 1/4 cup Kirsch (optional)
• Chocolate shavings (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Two 8-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serrated knife (for leveling cake)
• Offset spatula or regular knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the sides of the cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, oil, vanilla, and buttermilk. Slowly mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Add hot water or coffee last, and stir until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly into the pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

Use a mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 5: Prepare the Cherries

Drain the cherries and reserve the syrup. If using Kirsch, mix it with the syrup. Set aside 8-10 cherries for the top.

Step 6: Level the Cakes

Once the cakes are cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops. This makes stacking easier.

Assembling Your Black Forest Cake

Step 1: First Cake Layer

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush it with cherry syrup to moisten it.

Step 2: Add Cream and Cherries

Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, then add a layer of cherries.

Step 3: Second Cake Layer

Add the second cake layer. Brush again with syrup.

Step 4: Frost and Decorate

Spread whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake. Use an offset spatula for smooth coverage. Add chocolate shavings all over the top and sides. Place reserved cherries on top.

Tips for the Perfect Forest Cake

• Use a cake ring for a neater assembly.
• Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.
• For a non-alcoholic version, skip the Kirsch and use extra cherry syrup.

FAQs About Black Forest Cake

Can I make Black Forest cake without eggs?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes like applesauce or vinegar + baking soda. The texture might vary slightly, but it still tastes great.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and it’s ready.

How do I store leftover cake?

Keep it in the fridge, covered. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Nutrition and Portion Tips

This recipe makes about 12 servings. Here’s a rough nutritional estimate per slice:

• Calories: 370
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 38g

Final Thoughts

Making a Black Forest cake at home might sound tricky, but it’s easier than you think. With a bit of time and the right ingredients, you’ll have a cake that’s beautiful, delicious, and sure to impress.

Try this Black Forest cake recipe today—or explore our German chocolate cake recipe for another rich, European-inspired dessert. Got questions or tips of your own? Share them in the comments below!