Black Forest Cake : How to Bake it the best way
3 mins read

Black Forest Cake : How to Bake it the best way

Lorah0

The Black Forest Cake, a classic German dessert, is known for its rich layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries. This decadent treat is perfect for special occasions and sure to impress your guests. Follow this step-by-step guide to bake a delicious Black Forest Cake at home.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Cherry Filling

  • 2 cups pitted dark sweet cherries (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Black Forest
Black Forest

Whipped Cream

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly and Decoration

  • 1/2 cup grated dark chocolate or chocolate shavings
  • Additional whole cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven.

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Cake

  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
  • Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Cherry Filling

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and the sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes.
  • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry.
  • Add the cornstarch slurry to the cherry mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Whipped Cream

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.

5. Assemble the Cake

  • Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then add half of the cherry filling, spreading it evenly.
  • Place the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with a thin layer of whipped cream to create a “crumb coat.” Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
  • After the crumb coat has set, apply a final layer of whipped cream, covering the top and sides of the cake.
  • Press the grated chocolate or chocolate shavings onto the sides of the cake.
  • Pipe any remaining whipped cream decoratively on the top of the cake, and garnish with whole cherries if desired.

6. Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
  • Slice and enjoy your homemade Black Forest Cake!

Conclusion

Baking a Black Forest Cake from scratch is a rewarding and delicious experience. With its rich chocolate layers, creamy whipped cream, and sweet cherries, this classic cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll create a stunning and delectable dessert that everyone will love. Happy baking!

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