Luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake

Indulge in this Luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake, a decadent blend of rich chocolate layers, tart cherry filling, and light whipped cream frosting. A classic dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 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

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or canned pitted cherries, drained
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

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

For Assembly and Decoration:

• 1/2 cup cherry liqueur (optional)
• Fresh cherries, for garnish
• Chocolate shavings or curls, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
6. For the cherry filling, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
7. For the whipped cream frosting, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
8. If using cherry liqueur, brush each cake layer with it.
9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream frosting, then top with a portion of cherry filling. Repeat with the remaining layers.
10. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting.
11. Garnish with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings or curls.
12. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 12 slices. The total time required is about 2 hours, including 30 minutes of prep, 30-35 minutes of baking, and 1 hour for cooling.

Variations

• Fruit Variations: Substitute cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor.
• Frosting Variations: Use chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a richer topping.
• Layer Variations: Add a layer of chocolate mousse between the cake layers for extra indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, enjoy chilled. The cake does not need reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, but results may vary. Cake flour will yield a lighter texture.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day in advance and assembled later.
3. What if I can’t find cherry liqueur?
   You can omit it or use a cherry syrup as a substitute.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the unassembled layers for up to 3 months.
5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a lighter option.
6. How do I ensure the cake layers are even?
   Use a kitchen scale to measure the batter for each layer.
7. Can I use frozen cherries?
   Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.
8. What can I do if the cake is too dry?
   Brush the layers with additional cherry syrup or liqueur before frosting.
9. Is this cake suitable for kids?
   Yes, just omit the cherry liqueur for a family-friendly version.
10. How should I cut and serve this cake?
    Use a sharp, serrated knife for clean cuts and serve with extra cherries on the side.

Conclusion

This Luscious Black Forest Cherry Cake is a stunning dessert that combines the deep richness of chocolate with the refreshing tartness of cherries. Perfect for celebrations or any sweet tooth craving, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every slice!

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