If you’re searching for a classic dessert that is rich, decadent, and full of flavor, look no further than Grandma’s Black Forest Cake! This indulgent treat features layers of moist chocolate cake, luscious whipped cream, and sweet cherry filling, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to dessert heaven. It’s perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any time you want to impress your family and friends!
What makes this cake so special is the combination of the deep chocolate flavor with the tartness of cherries and the lightness of whipped cream. This Grandma’s Black Forest Cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your household, evoking sweet memories with every bite!
Grandma’s Black Forest Cake features layers of rich chocolate cake filled with sweet cherry filling and whipped cream, all topped with chocolate shavings. Ready in about 1 hour (plus chilling time), this cake is a showstopper for any occasion!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this delightful cake in no time. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Exciting Story:
Growing up, I always looked forward to special family gatherings when Grandma would whip up her famous Black Forest Cake. The aroma of chocolate baking filled the house, and I could hardly wait for dessert time! She would tell stories of how this cake became a family favorite, with its layers of chocolate cake and the perfect blend of cherries and cream.
As I helped her in the kitchen, I learned her secrets for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Once the cake was layered and frosted, the first slice was always a moment of pure excitement. This Grandma’s Black Forest Cake recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing joy and sweetness to our family celebrations.
Why This Grandma’s Black Forest Cake?
- Decadently Delicious: The rich chocolate layers paired with cherry filling and whipped cream create a truly indulgent dessert.
- Classic Flavor: This beloved recipe brings together flavors that are timeless and adored by many.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and chocolate shavings make it a stunning centerpiece for any occasion!
How to Make Grandma’s Black Forest Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Gradually add the boiling water and mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Cherry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries (with syrup), lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using) over medium heat. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then add a layer of cherry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with more whipped cream and cherries.
- Decorate: Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Garnish the top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Grandma’s Black Forest Cake to family and friends, enjoying every delicious bite!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherries can be used if available, adding a delightful burst of flavor.
- Chill Your Bowl: Chill the mixing bowl for whipping cream for even better results!
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Fruits: Experiment with raspberries or strawberries for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Liqueur Addition: For an adult version, consider adding a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the cherry filling.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use whole wheat flour for the cake for added fiber.
- Substitute sugar with a natural sweetener for a lighter option.
Closing
And there you have it! Grandma’s Black Forest Cake is a deliciously decadent dessert that will bring joy to anyone who tries it. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful sweets!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I store this cake?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze Black Forest Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling. - What can I use instead of cherries?
You can use other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor. - Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cake. - How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. - Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Absolutely! Store-bought whipped cream can save time and still taste great. - What if I want a richer flavor?
Consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling for an adult twist. - How can I make this cake more chocolatey?
Add chocolate chips to the cake batter or use dark cocoa powder. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. - What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve it chilled, topped with additional whipped cream and fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation. - How do I slice the cake neatly?
Use a hot, clean knife to slice through the cake for cleaner edges. - Can I add nuts to this cake?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled between the layers for added texture.
Grandma’s Black Forest Cake
Course: All Word Recipes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
1 3/4 cups 1 3/4 all-purpose flour
3/4 cup 3/4 unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups 2 granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons 1 1/2 baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons 1 1/2 baking soda
1 teaspoon 1 salt
2 large 2 eggs
1 cup 1 whole milk
1/2 cup 1/2 vegetable oil
2 teaspoons 2 vanilla extract
1 cup 1 boiling water
For the Cherry Filling:
1 jar 1 (24 oz) Morello cherries in syrup (or cherry pie filling)
1 tablespoon 1 cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tablespoon 1 lemon juice
For the Whipped Cream:
2 cups 2 heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup 1/4 powdered sugar
1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract
For Decoration:
Chocolate shavings (dark or milk chocolate)
Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Gradually add the boiling water and mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Cherry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries (with syrup), lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using) over medium heat. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then add a layer of cherry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with more whipped cream and cherries.
- Decorate: Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Garnish the top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Grandma’s Black Forest Cake to family and friends, enjoying every delicious bite!Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Gradually add the boiling water and mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Cherry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries (with syrup), lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using) over medium heat. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then add a layer of cherry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with more whipped cream and cherries.
- Decorate: Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream. Garnish the top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Grandma’s Black Forest Cake to family and friends, enjoying every delicious bite!
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