Black Forest Cake Recipe: Classic German Black Forest Gateau

Black Forest Cake is a rich chocolate cake layered with an authentic cherry filling and topped with light, sweet homemade whipped cream. This classic German dessert can be baked in about 25 minutes and makes an impressive, yet approachable centerpiece for celebrations or a summer gathering.

This cake traditionally combines moist chocolate sponge layers with a tart cherry filling and clouds of whipped cream. The layers are often brushed with kirschwasser (kirsch), a cherry brandy that adds depth and keeps the cake tender — in Germany this spirit is what makes a true Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.

Also called Black Forest gateau, this dessert features chocolate cake layers, whipped cream, and cherries — a combination that balances richness and brightness. The cherry component traces its name to the Black Forest region only because that area produces the tart cherries and the kirsch traditionally used in the recipe.

Light whipped cream prevents the cake from feeling overly heavy, which is one reason the dessert works well both for holidays and warmer weather. Fresh cherries, when in season, add beautiful color and a lively tartness that complements the chocolate perfectly; however, tart jarred cherries or Morello cherries also make excellent, traditional substitutes.

Plan on seconds — the contrast of tart cherries and tender chocolate cake is irresistible.

Ingredient Notes

This Black Forest Cake breaks down into three homemade components: the chocolate cake, the cherry filling, and the whipped cream. Each is simple to prepare and together they deliver the signature flavors.

Chocolate cake: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-process cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. The batter is divided between three 8″ round pans (or two pans if you prefer thicker layers).

Cherry filling: fresh pitted cherries, kirsch, granulated sugar, water, and cornstarch to thicken. If fresh cherries are not available, drained tart jarred cherries (such as Morello) are a traditional and delicious alternative — just soak them in a little kirsch if possible.

Whipped cream: heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip until stiff peaks form for a stable, pillowy frosting. Finish with grated dark chocolate and fresh cherries for garnish.

How To Make Black Forest Cake

1. Grease and line round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl combine buttermilk, oil, and vanilla, then gradually beat the wet ingredients into the dry.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Divide the batter among the prepared pans.
5. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
6. For the cherry filling, soak the cherries in kirsch for a couple of hours or overnight, then drain, reserving the kirsch.
7. Whisk cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water. In a saucepan, bring soaked cherries, sugar, and water to a boil. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Allow to cool completely.
8. Whip the cream to soft peaks, add powdered sugar slowly, and continue whipping to stiff peaks.
9. Assemble by trimming layers for evenness. Place the first layer on a plate and brush with reserved kirsch. Spread whipped cream and top with half the cherry filling.
10. Repeat with the next layer, then place the final layer on top and brush with kirsch.
11. Apply a thin crumb coat of whipped cream and chill for 30 minutes. Finish by coating the top and sides with remaining whipped cream, pressing grated chocolate into the sides, piping cream dollops on top, and garnishing with fresh cherries.
12. Refrigerate the finished cake and serve chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Store

Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent the whipped cream from absorbing other odors.

Can I Use A Boxed Cake Mix?

Yes. Substitute the water called for on the box with buttermilk and consider adding vanilla or a pinch of espresso powder to boost the chocolate flavor.

Can I Use Canned Cherry Filling?

Yes. Stir in about 1 teaspoon of kirsch to replicate the traditional flavor before assembling.

No Fresh Cherries?

Use a jar of tart cherries, drain them well and soak in kirsch for at least an hour before preparing the filling.

Can I Make This As A Poke Cake?

Yes. Bake the batter in a 9×13 pan, poke holes after baking, brush with kirsch, and spread the cherry filling over the top. Finish with whipped cream and chocolate curls.

Store-Bought Whipped Cream?

A stabilized, tub-style whipped topping can be used in a pinch, but homemade whipped cream provides the best texture and flavor. Canned aerosol whipped cream is not recommended because it can deflate quickly.

This Black Forest Cake is a reliable crowd-pleaser when you want something chocolatey but not too heavy. If you enjoy chocolate desserts, consider making other chocolate cakes and treats to satisfy your craving.

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Recipe notes: originally published in June 2018 and updated with clearer instructions and step-by-step photos in September 2021.