Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that tastes as lovely as it looks, this Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake is the answer to your sweetest dreams. Moist layers of chocolate sponge, clouds of fresh whipped cream, a tumble of juicy cherries, and that infamous glossy ganache drip—it’s an elegant classic that will make you the star baker at any gathering. Each component melds beautifully to create a harmony of flavors and textures, making every forkful irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or celebrate a special occasion, this is the one cake recipe you’ll want up your sleeve.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Despite its luxurious finish, you’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients are refreshingly straightforward. Each element plays a crucial role, working together to give the Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake its iconic taste, velvety texture, and stunning appearance.

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy structure of the cake depends on this pantry staple for just the right amount of tenderness.
• Cocoa powder: Use a good-quality unsweetened variety for rich, chocolatey flavor and that dark, sultry color.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to both the sponge and the filling; don’t skimp!
• Baking powder & baking soda: These two work hand-in-hand to lift the cake, ensuring pillowy layers.
• Salt: Enhances every flavor note and keeps the sweetness in balance.
• Eggs: Give the sponge structure and richness; make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Vegetable oil: For extra-moist cake layers that stay tender even in the fridge.
• Milk: Adds softness and helps combine all the ingredients smoothly.
• Hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee—don’t skip this step!
• Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, aromatic note throughout the cake and the whipped cream.
• Heavy cream (cold): The base for your luscious whipped cream layers; use the best quality you can find.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream for that signature cloud-like texture.
• Fresh or jarred cherries: The heart of this cake—choose the ripest you can find, or use cherries in syrup for convenience.
• Sugar (for cherries): If using fresh cherries, this helps create a delicious syrupy layer.
• Cherry liqueur (Kirsch, optional): For an authentic German twist and a fragrant cherry boost.
• Dark chocolate (for ganache): Brings decadent richness to that beautiful drip topping.
• Fresh fruit & mint (for decorating): Cherries with stems, berries, and mint leaves complete the wow factor look!
• Chocolate shavings or curls: The final flourish for both taste and gorgeous finishing touches.

How to Make Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining three 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pans. Combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until smooth. Pour in the hot coffee last; this not only deepens the chocolate flavor but also makes the batter beautifully pourable. Divide the batter evenly between your pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let your layers cool completely—the anticipation is real, but patience here makes all the difference!

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Filling

While the cakes cool, get your cold heavy cream ready. Using either a stand mixer or a handheld electric beater, beat the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Watch closely: you want peaks that stand tall without being overbeaten or grainy. Pop this whipped cream in the fridge so it stays perfectly fluffy while you assemble your Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Layer

If you’re using fresh cherries, pit and halve them, then simmer with a bit of sugar in a small saucepan for 5–6 minutes until they’re syrupy and just softened. Once cooled, you can stir in a splash of Kirsch for authentic flavor, but it’s absolutely delicious either way. If you prefer jarred cherries in syrup, simply drain (or reserve some syrup for soaking the sponge) and you’re ready to go.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Finely chop your dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. Warm the cream in a saucepan until it’s steaming (but not boiling), then pour over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then slowly stir until the ganache is silky and smooth. Cool until it thickens just enough to drip beautifully off a spoon, but not so much that it sets hard—you want those decadent chocolate drips hugging your cake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

To build your masterpiece, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream, followed by spoonfuls of your cherry mixture. Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a lofty cloud of cream on top. Drizzle the cooled ganache gently along the edges for that classic “drip” effect. Pause and admire—you’re almost there!

Step 6: Decorate in Style

Now comes the fun part. Garnish the top of your Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake with whole cherries (leave the stems for a nostalgic touch), chocolate curls, and a scattering of mint leaves. Optional extras like raspberries, blueberries, or even vibrant kiwi slices add a jewel-bright finish. And remember, no two cakes look exactly alike, so make yours uniquely beautiful!

How to Serve Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake

Garnishes

Just before serving, add a few extra cherries with their stems for drama. You can also tuck in some delicate chocolate shavings, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a fresh mint sprig or two. These touches draw everyone’s eye and hint at the delightful flavors awaiting inside each slice.

Side Dishes

To balance the richness of Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake, pair it with a scoop of silky vanilla ice cream, a dollop of crème fraîche, or even a cup of strong black coffee. For gatherings, consider offering a fresh berry salad for a bright, tangy complement to the chocolate and cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try making mini cakes using biscuit cutters—perfect for dinner parties or brunch tables. Stack cubes in clear glasses for elegant cake parfaits, or bake the sponge in a bundt or loaf pan for a rustic twist. However you slice it, this cake is guaranteed to turn heads!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream keeps the cake moist, while the cherries continue to infuse each layer with flavor. For best results, place parchment between cut slices and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a cake dome.

Freezing

If you’d like to make components ahead, individually wrapped sponge layers freeze brilliantly for up to 3 months. You can even freeze the assembled cake, though the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly on thawing. Freeze uncovered until firm, then wrap carefully. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you prefer the layers a bit softer, let a slice sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before eating—this brings out all the decadent flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use jarred cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Jarred cherries in syrup work wonderfully and are especially handy when fresh cherries aren’t in season. Just be sure to drain them well, and if you like, add a splash of cherry liqueur for extra flavor.

What makes Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake different from other chocolate cakes?

This cake is all about the joyful layering of moist chocolate sponge, fluffy whipped cream, and tart-sweet cherries, topped with a luscious ganache drip. The interplay between fruit, cream, and chocolate makes it uniquely indulgent and a world apart from everyday chocolate cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in equal measure. Check your baking powder and cocoa powder to ensure they’re gluten-free, and proceed as usual—your cake will be just as lovely.

Is the cherry liqueur necessary?

Not at all. While Kirsch adds a traditional German touch and deepens the flavor, it’s optional. The cake is plenty delicious with just the cherry syrup or fresh cherries; it’s all about your preference.

Can I prepare Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake in advance?

Definitely! You can bake the sponge and prepare the cherry layer and whipped cream a day in advance for easy assembly. Just wait to drizzle the ganache and decorate until just before serving for best presentation.

Final Thoughts

Trust me: a bite of Black Forest Chocolate Cherry Cake is pure dessert magic, guaranteed to make any day feel like a celebration. Don’t be shy about giving this classic a try—your kitchen will smell divine, and every forkful will be worth the little bit of extra effort. Happy baking!