How to Make a French Black Forest Cake
The French Black Forest Cake, known as "Forêt Noire," is a decadent dessert that combines layers of rich chocolate cake, whipped cream, and tangy cherries. Making this mouthwatering treat at home can be an enjoyable experience. Follow these steps to create your own French Black Forest Cake.
Ingredients
To make a traditional French Black Forest Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the chocolate cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the filling and topping:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 jar (about 24 ounces) of morello cherries, drained (reserve some juice)
- Additional chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn into butter.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers. Place the first layer on a serving plate. Use a spoon to drizzle some of the reserved cherry juice over the cake layer to add moisture. Spread a layer of whipped cream over this layer and add a generous amount of drained cherries.
Repeat this process for the next two layers, then add the final layer of cake on top. Apply a thin layer of whipped cream all over the cake to create a crumb coat. Place the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help set the cream.
Step 4: Decorate the Cake
After the cake has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Use the remaining whipped cream to frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Finish by garnishing the top with chocolate shavings and a few whole cherries for an elegant presentation.
Tips for a Perfect French Black Forest Cake
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cool before assembling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- For an extra cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling.
Enjoy your homemade French Black Forest Cake with friends and family! This luscious dessert is perfect for special occasions or simply as a delightful treat any day of the week.