Decadent Black Forest Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Introduction

Craving a rich and indulgent dessert? This Black Forest Chocolate Cake combines layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy frosting, and the bold sweetness of cherries. Topped with fresh cherries and chocolate decorations, this cake is as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want to impress, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers bakery-level results at home. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (90g) cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee (or hot water)

For the Frosting:

• 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips, melted and cooled

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup (150g) fresh cherries
• 1/2 cup (80g) dark chocolate chunks or curls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
4. Stir in the hot coffee (or water). The batter will be thin—this is normal.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool completely before removing them from the pans.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Gently fold in the melted, cooled chocolate until fully combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer of cake and repeat with another layer of frosting. Place the final cake layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly.

Step 4: Decorate the Cake

1. Pipe decorative swirls of frosting around the top edge of the cake.
2. Arrange fresh cherries and chocolate chunks or curls on top for an elegant finish.
3. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Cake

• Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the richest flavor.
• Chill the frosting if it becomes too soft to work with.
• For an extra cherry flavor, spread a layer of cherry jam between the cake layers.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Black Forest Chocolate Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. With its rich chocolate layers, creamy frosting, and fresh cherries, it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. Try it today and share your creations with us online. Enjoy!