Name: Black Forest Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (dutch processed recommended); 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; ¾ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 2 large eggs, room temperature; ¼ cup vegetable or canola oil; ¾ cup buttermilk, room temperature; ¾ cup strong brewed coffee or hot water; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 can (15 oz) cherries (for layering); ½ cup water; ½ cup sugar; 2 Tbsp cherry liquor; 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate bars, finely chopped; ½ cup heavy cream; ¾ tsp corn syrup (optional); 2 cups heavy cream; ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ cup shredded chocolate (for topping); Whole cherries (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 175 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for decadent desserts, this Black Forest Cake Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Combining rich, moist chocolate cake layers with luscious whipped cream, tart cherries, and a silky chocolate ganache, this cake is a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re planning a special event or just want to treat yourself, this Black Forest Cake Recipe delivers that perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and inviting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four steps of making a chocolate cherry cake. Step 1 has a mixing bowl with dry chocolate cake mix, where a dark liquid is pouring in, and a colorful whisk in the bowl, all on a white marbled surface, with a dirty bowl in the background. Step 2 displays three white round pans filled with smooth, glossy chocolate batter, placed on a white marbled surface. Step 3 shows three dark, baked chocolate cake layers cooling on a black cooling rack, with visible texture and a straight line score on the top of each cake layer, placed on a white marbled surface. Step 4 features one chocolate cake layer on a pink cake stand, topped with a thick layer of white cream and scattered bright red cherries, with a small container of cherries in the back, all set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple yet essential, every ingredient in this Black Forest Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the ideal harmony of flavor, texture, and appearance. Each component works together to build a cake that’s chocolatey, creamy, and refreshingly fruity.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cake layers.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and a rich color.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering.
1 ½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cake layers rise nicely and become fluffy.
¾ tsp baking powder: Adds extra lift for a tender crumb.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the sweetness and balances flavors.
2 large eggs (Room temperature): Bind ingredients and add moisture.
¼ cup oil (vegetable or canola): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
¾ cup buttermilk (Room temperature): Provides tanginess and richness.
¾ cup strong brewed coffee or hot water: Amplifies the chocolate depth in the cake.
2 tsp vanilla extract: A warm, aromatic note that lifts the batter.
1 can (15 oz) cherries: The classic tart component nestled between cake layers.
½ cup shredded chocolate: Adds texture and decorative appeal on top.
½ cup water: Used for making the cherry syrup to soak into the cake.
½ cup sugar: Sweetens the cherry syrup perfectly.
2 Tbsp cherry liquor: Infuses the syrup with a boozy cherry kick.
½ cup heavy cream: Base for the luscious ganache topping.
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate bars (finely chopped): Creates the smooth ganache that shines on the cake.
¾ tsp corn syrup (optional): Adds shine and smoothness to the ganache.
2 cups heavy cream: Whipped into the fluffy cream layers that make this cake irresistible.
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream gently.
1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the whipped cream with a subtle vanilla essence.

How to Make Black Forest Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease three 6-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper. Be sure to grease the parchment as well so the cakes release effortlessly after baking. Getting this prep right sets the stage for perfectly shaped cake layers.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly. Finish by slowly adding the hot coffee or water to the batter and mix until smooth and luscious.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among your three prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. When done, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key to avoid breaking the delicate layers.

Step 4: Level Your Cakes

When the cakes are cool, carefully slice off the domed tops with a serrated knife. Creating a flat surface for stacking makes assembling your Black Forest Cake Recipe much easier and gives it that polished, professional look.

Step 5: Make the Cherry Syrup

Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. After about 2-3 minutes, remove from heat and stir in the cherry liquor. Let it cool slightly. This syrup will soak into the cake layers, adding moisture and an extra burst of cherry flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

In a bowl, mix the finely chopped chocolate with corn syrup if using. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan just until it simmers, then pour it over the chocolate. Allow it to sit for 3 minutes to melt, then stir gently until smooth and glossy. Put this aside to cool for 10 minutes; this ganache will be the luxurious topping that drapes over your finished cake.

Step 7: Whip the Cream

Using an electric mixer, whip the heavy cream with the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This homemade whipped cream should be light, fluffy, and creamy — the essential component that softens the rich chocolate and sweet cherries perfectly.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on your serving plate and brush it generously with the cherry syrup. Spread about 1 heaping cup of whipped cream on top, then scatter some cherries over the cream. Add the second cake layer and repeat this luscious process. Finish with the third layer and use the remaining whipped cream to frost the cake’s top and sides as smoothly as you can.

Step 9: Add the Ganache and Chill

Pour the cooled chocolate ganache on top of the cake and gently spread it so it cascades elegantly down the sides. Decorate with whipped cream swirls and whole cherries for that signature Black Forest look. Let chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Black Forest Cake Recipe

The image shows a three-layer dark chocolate cake with white cream between each layer that holds bright red cherry pieces inside. The outside of the cake is covered smoothly in white cream, with chocolate drips running from the top down the sides. Around the base of the cake, there are small chocolate shavings and chunks stuck to the cream. On top of the cake, there are white cream swirls evenly spaced, each topped with a shiny red cherry. The cake is placed on a light pink plate, set on a white marbled surface in front of a wooden background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Nothing elevates this cake like classic garnishes. Extra whipped cream swirls, fresh whole cherries, and a sprinkle of shredded chocolate not only look stunning but add texture and indulgence to every slice. Don’t hesitate to get creative with chocolate curls or even a dusting of cocoa powder.

Side Dishes

While this cake is heavenly on its own, pairing it with light fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement and balance its richness. Sparkling fruit punches or rich coffee also make lovely beverage partners to enhance the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Black Forest Cake Recipe on a decorative cake stand for instant wow factor. For intimate dinners, slice the cake into individual parfait glasses layered with extra cherries and whipped cream. Turning this classic into a trifle brings new life to the flavors and makes sharing even easier.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After serving, cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cake stays moist and fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect to prepare a little in advance or enjoy over several days.

Freezing

If you want to save your Black Forest Cake Recipe for later, freeze it before adding the ganache and whipped cream topping. Wrap each cake layer well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling and frosting for the best texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Allow slices to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors fully without melting the delicate cream.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can add a wonderful natural tartness. Just be sure to pit and cook them down slightly with sugar to create a similar texture and flavor to the canned cherries used in the recipe.

What if I don’t have cherry liquor?

No worries! You can omit the cherry liquor or substitute it with a splash of cherry juice or a bit of brandy. The syrup will still add moisture and sweetness to the cake layers beautifully.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Keep in mind, the texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will remain wonderfully rich and chocolatey.

Is there a way to make the cake less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar in the whipped cream or skip adding extra sugar to the cherry syrup to tone down the sweetness. Balancing the sweetness to your preference will make this cake even more enjoyable.

How do I know when the cake layers are fully baked?

Use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake layer, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cakes are ready to come out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Black Forest Cake Recipe that makes every celebration feel extra special. It brings together the best of chocolate, cherries, and cream in a way that’s both timeless and utterly irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and share the joy with the people you love. Happy baking and even happier tasting!