This Luxurious Black Forest Cake is a decadent dessert made with layers of moist chocolate sponge, sweet cherry filling, and airy whipped cream. It’s the perfect centerpiece for celebrations or a special weekend treat I like to share with friends and family.

Luxurious Black Forest Cake – A Dreamy Chocolate & Cherry Delight!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this cake brings together rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and smooth whipped cream in every bite. It looks elegant, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Each layer adds flavor and texture, making every slice feel indulgent and festive.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup dark cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Cherry Filling:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
¼ cup cherry juice (from the can or bottled)

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

3 cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

Chocolate shavings or curls
Fresh cherries (optional)

Directions

Bake the Cakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Cherry Filling:
- Mix the cherry pie filling with the cherry juice to loosen the consistency slightly. Set aside.
Make the Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until needed.
Assemble the Cake:
- Slice each cake in half horizontally to create four thin layers.
- Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread with a layer of cherry filling, then a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the process with remaining layers, ending with a top layer of cake.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream.
- Decorate with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Fresh Cherry Filling: I like to use fresh cherries cooked with a little sugar and cornstarch when they’re in season.
Layer Quantity: Sometimes I keep it simple with just two layers instead of four.
Mini Cakes: I use this recipe to make mini versions for individual servings—perfect for parties.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Freezing: I freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months, wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Tip: I serve the cake chilled or let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing.

FAQs

What makes this cake a “Black Forest” cake?

It’s the combination of chocolate sponge, cherry filling, and whipped cream that defines the classic Black Forest style.

Can I use a different fruit?

Yes, I sometimes use raspberries or strawberries for a twist, though cherries are the traditional choice.

How do I prevent the whipped cream from melting?

I make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting and keep the whipped cream cold until ready to use.

Can I bake the cake layers in advance?

Definitely. I bake the layers a day ahead and assemble the cake when I’m ready.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

I use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for smooth, neat slices.

Conclusion

This Luxurious Black Forest Cake is one of my favorite cakes to make when I want to impress or celebrate. With its moist chocolate layers, juicy cherry filling, and soft whipped cream, it’s a dessert that always brings smiles and second servings. I know I’ll be making it again and again.