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German Black Forest Cake Recipe (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) Recipe

German Black Forest Cake Recipe (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) Recipe

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Indulge in the decadent flavors of an authentic German Black Forest Cake, also known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. This classic European dessert features layers of moist chocolate sponge cake, luscious whipped cream, and tart cherries soaked in Kirschwasser cherry liqueur. Learn how to create this timeless treat with our straightforward recipe.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup cherries, soaked in Kirschwasser
  • 1/4 cup Kirschwasser (cherry liqueur)

For the Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings
  • Additional cherries for decoration

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
  2. Prepare the Batter: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy. Mix in oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk, alternating with dry ingredients.
  3. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool the cakes on wire racks after baking.
  4. Whip the Cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a plate, brush with Kirschwasser, spread whipped cream, add cherries, then repeat with the second layer.
  6. Decorate: Frost the cake with whipped cream, top with chocolate shavings and cherries.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.

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