A classic Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) with layers of moist chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and Kirsch-soaked cherries

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. 🎂✨
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine German
Servings 12 slices
Calories 350 kcal

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

Step-by-step preparation of an authentic Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)

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! 🇩🇪🍰✨

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Keyword Black Forest Cake, Cherry Chocolate Cake, Classic Black Forest Cake Recipe, Easy Black Forest Cake, German Chocolate Cake, Homemade Black Forest Cake, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, Traditional German Desserts
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