Black Forest Cake – The Best Cake You’ll Ever Make

Ingredients:

Chocolate Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup hot water or hot coffee

Cherry Filling

• 3 cups frozen cherries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Whipped Cream Frosting

• 3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Make the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Mix until smooth.
4. Slowly stir in hot water or coffee until the batter is thin and well combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between pans.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes completely before assembling.

Make the Cherry Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until thickened and glossy.
3. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract.
4. Allow filling to cool completely.

Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a large chilled bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
3. Beat until stiff peaks form. Do not overmix.

Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous layer of cherry filling over the cake.
3. Top with a layer of whipped cream frosting.
4. Place the second cake layer on top.
5. Frost the top and sides with remaining whipped cream.
6. Garnish with extra cherries or chocolate shavings if desired.

Storage

Store cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best enjoyed chilled.

Tips for Success

• Using coffee instead of water deepens the chocolate flavor.
• Make sure the cake layers are fully cooled before frosting.
• Chill the bowl and beaters for the best whipped cream texture.