A popular dessert that never fails to please, black forest cake is distinguished by its layers of rich chocolate, whipped cream, and sour cherries. This indulgent cake is perfect for celebrations, and making it from scratch is easier than you might think.
Here’s a step-by-step recipe to create a delicious Black Forest cake that will delight your family and friends from the best Baking Institute in Chennai.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Filling:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 jar (about 24 oz) morello cherries (drained, reserve the juice)
For Decoration:
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh cherries
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. Sift the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a sizable mixing basin. This stage helps to aerate the flour for a lighter cake and guarantees that all the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Next, add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until combined. The batter will be thick at this point. Slowly pour in the hot water while stirring to thin the mixture and keep the cake moist. Evenly pour the batter into the cake pans, making sure to spread it out.
Preheat the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After letting the cakes cool in the pans for ten or so minutes, move them to wire racks to finish cooling.
2. Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling:
While the cakes are cooling, you can make the whipped cream filling. Beat the heavy whipping cream in a large mixing basin until it begins to thicken. Add the vanilla essence and powdered sugar gradually while whipping until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream will serve as both a filling and a frosting for the cake.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Once the chocolate cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble. Level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife if necessary to ensure they sit evenly. On a serving plate, arrange one layer of the cake. Moisten it generously with some reserved cherry juice to enhance the flavor and moisture of the cake.
Spread half of the whipped cream over the first layer, then distribute half of the morello cherries on top. Carefully place the second layer of the cake on top, and repeat the process: moisten with cherry juice, spread the remaining whipped cream, and top with the remaining cherries.
4. Decorate the Cake:
For a professional finish, use the remaining whipped cream to frost the sides and top of the cake. Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls, and add a few fresh cherries for an extra touch of elegance.
5. Serve:
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps set the whipped cream and makes it easier to cut. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in every bite!
Conclusion
Making a Black Forest cake at home may take some time, but the result is well worth the effort. With its layers of chocolate goodness, creamy filling, and cherry topping, this cake is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a special treat, this classic dessert will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Knead & frost offers hands-on baking classes in Chennai, focusing on a variety of baked goods, from breads to pastries. Our baking academy cater to both beginners and seasoned bakers, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Enjoy your baking journey!