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Authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake) 🍒🍫
Indulge in this authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, the famous Black Forest Cake from Germany. With layers of moist chocolate sponge, fluffy whipped cream, and Kirsch-soaked cherries, this decadent dessert is a true showstopper! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions. 🎂✨
Ingredients
For the Shortcrust Pastry Base (Optional but Traditional)
- 125 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 75 g (⅓ cup) cold butter, cubed
- 50 g (¼ cup) sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp cold water
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake
- 4 eggs
- 120 g (½ cup) sugar
- 100 g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
- 30 g (¼ cup) cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 50 g (3.5 tbsp) melted butter
For the Cherry Filling & Kirsch Soak
- 300 g (10.5 oz) cherries, pitted 🍒 (fresh or jarred)
- 100 ml (⅓ cup) Kirschwasser (or cherry juice for a non-alcoholic version)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken)
For the Whipped Cream & Decoration
- 500 ml (2 cups) heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp gelatin (optional, to stabilize)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, shaved
- Extra cherries for decoration 🍒
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry Base (Optional)
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a bowl, mix flour and cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add sugar, egg yolk, and water. Knead into a smooth dough ball.
- Chill for 30 minutes, then roll it out and place it in a 24-26 cm (9-10 inch) tin.
- Cover with baking paper and dried beans/rice and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the beans and paper, then bake for another 20 minutes. Let cool.
Step 2: Bake the Chocolate Sponge Cake
- Lower the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F).
- Beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Fold gently.
- Mix a small portion of batter with melted butter, then combine with the rest.
- Pour into a buttered and floured tin. Bake for 40 minutes.
- Let it cool completely, then slice into two layers.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a saucepan, heat cherries, sugar, and Kirschwasser (or cherry juice).
- Simmer for 5 minutes. Add cornstarch if needed to thicken. Let cool.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream
- (Optional) Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then let cool.
- Beat cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Add gelatin (if using) and half the Kirsch. Beat until stiff.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake 🎂
- Spread a thin layer of cherry jam on the shortcrust pastry (if using).
- Spread a layer of whipped cream, followed by cherries.
- Place the first sponge cake layer on top and brush with Kirschwasser.
- Add a layer of whipped cream and cherries, then place the second sponge layer.
Step 6: Decorate the Cake 🍰
- Coat the entire cake with whipped cream.
- Sprinkle generously with chocolate shavings.
- Pipe whipped cream swirls on top and add whole cherries.
Notes
Authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte Recipe 🍒🍫
A Timeless German Classic The Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest Cake, is one of Germany’s most iconic desserts. 🍰 With its decadent layers of chocolate sponge cake, luscious whipped cream, and cherries soaked in Kirschwasser (a cherry brandy from the Black Forest region), this cake is a true indulgence! The rich chocolate shavings, delicate whipped cream swirls, and vibrant cherries on top make this cake both stunning and delicious. Traditionally, some variations include a crispy shortcrust pastry base for contrast or even a hint of buttercream in the filling. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this authentic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte recipe will transport you straight to the Black Forest. 🌲🎉 Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Cake
✅ Chill for at least 4 hours before serving to enhance flavors!✅ Use high-quality dark chocolate to balance sweetness.
✅ For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Kirsch with cherry juice.
📌 Recipe Notes
- Traditional Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte must contain Kirschwasser to be authentic. However, non-alcoholic substitutions work well.
- The cake can be made a day in advance for better flavor!
🎉 Final Tips for the Perfect Black Forest Cake
✅ For an extra rich taste, let the cake rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving—it helps the flavors blend beautifully!✅ Use high-quality dark chocolate for decoration to balance the sweetness.
✅ No Kirsch? Substitute with cherry brandy, rum, or a cherry juice mixture. Enjoy your homemade Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte—a true taste of Germany! 🇩🇪🍰✨
