Pastry Education

 Black Forest Cake is renowned for its rich layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries, often topped with chocolate shavings and more cherries. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a traditional and delectable Black Forest Cake from scratch. 

Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (50g) of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) of brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) of vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) of buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) of hot water or hot coffee

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 can (21 oz or 600g) of cherry pie filling or 2 cups (500g) of pitted sour cherries with juice
• 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar (if using fresh cherries)
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of water
• 2 tablespoons of Kirsch (cherry brandy) (optional)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups (480ml) of heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 1/2 cup (60g) of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh cherries

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium, one small)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
• Spatula
• Three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready.

2. Prepare the Baking Pans

Grease and line the bottoms of the three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This will help the cakes release easily after baking.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

4. Cream Sugars and Oil

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

6. Add Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

7. Add Hot Water or Coffee

Gradually add the hot water or coffee to the batter, mixing on low speed until smooth. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.

8. Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Making the Cherry Filling

1. Prepare the Cherry Filling

If using cherry pie filling, set it aside. If using fresh or canned sour cherries, combine the cherries, sugar, and 1/4 cup of cherry juice (from the can or fresh) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to simmer.

2. Thicken the Cherry Filling

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this to the cherry mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the Kirsch if using. Allow the filling to cool completely.

Making the Whipped Cream

1. Chill the Bowl and Beaters

For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes.

2. Whip the Cream

In the chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can turn the cream into butter.

Assembling the Black Forest Cake

1. Level the Cakes

If necessary, level the tops of the cakes using a serrated knife to ensure even layers.

2. Brush with Kirsch (Optional)

If desired, lightly brush the tops of the cake layers with Kirsch for added flavor and moisture.

3. Layer the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then add a layer of cherry filling. Repeat with the second cake layer. Top with the third cake layer.

4. Frost the Cake

Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Use a spatula to smooth the cream.

5. Decorate

Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings or curls and fresh cherries.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cake chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
• Handle Cream Gently: Be careful not to overwhip the cream to avoid it turning into butter.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.

Black Forest Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that combines layers of moist chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries. With this detailed guide, even beginners can create a stunning and delicious Black Forest Cake that will impress family and friends. Enjoy your baking and the delicious results!