Havelland Black Forest Gateau (Havelland Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)

The Havelland Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Havelland Black Forest Gateau, is a classic dessert hailing from the Brandenburg cuisine. This indulgent cake features layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, all infused with a generous splash of Kirschwasser (cherry schnapps).

Vegetarian Dessert Brandenburg German Cuisine Black Forest Gateau Brandenburg Dessert
Havelland Black Forest Gateau (Havelland Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 150g granulated sugar
  • 100g all-purpose flour
  • 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 400ml heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 jar (350g) pitted sour cherries, drained
  • 100ml Kirschwasser (cherry schnapps)
  • 50g dark chocolate, for shaving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
  3. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Gently fold into the egg mixture until just combined.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 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, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  7. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Brush the top with half of the Kirschwasser. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, then top with half of the drained cherries.
  8. Place the second cake layer on top. Brush with the remaining Kirschwasser, spread with whipped cream, and decorate with the remaining cherries.
  9. Use a vegetable peeler to shave the dark chocolate over the top of the cake for garnish.
  10. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

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

Supplies

2 9-inch round cake pans Parchment paper Wire rack Mixing bowls

Tools

Mixer Vegetable peeler

Serving suggestions

Serve the Havelland Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte with a dollop of whipped cream and a side of fresh cherries.

Tips & tricks

For an extra indulgent twist, consider adding a layer of cherry jam between the cake layers.

Cost

$15