Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)

The Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, also known as Black Forest Cake, is a classic Bavarian dessert that features layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries soaked in Kirsch (cherry brandy). This indulgent cake is a favorite for special occasions and celebrations.

Vegetarian Dessert Bavarian German Cake Chocolate Cherries
Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Kirsch (cherry brandy)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) pitted cherries, drained
  • Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and pale.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and confectioners' sugar until stiff peaks form. Stir in the Kirsch.
  7. To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the whipped cream over the cake and top with half of the cherries. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with the remaining whipped cream and cherries.
  8. Garnish the top of the cake with additional whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
5g
Fat
18g

Supplies

2 9-inch round cake pans Mixing bowls Electric mixer Wire rack

Tools

Toothpick Spatula Serving plate

Serving suggestions

Serve slices of Black Forest Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh cherry on top.

Tips & tricks

For an extra indulgent touch, brush the cake layers with additional Kirsch before assembling.

Cost

$20