If you have ever dreamed of biting into a luscious, towering treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream, then this Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This cake is a heavenly trip to German-inspired dessert bliss, featuring moist chocolate layers, a vibrant cherry filling, and an ultra-light whipped cream frosting stacked high to impress your taste buds and guests alike. I absolutely adore sharing this recipe because it’s a showstopper that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe plays a crucial role—from the deep cocoa that gives richness to the cake layers, to the fresh cherries that bring that signature tart kick, and the creamy, dreamy whipped frosting that ties it all together. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this beautiful and flavorful masterpiece.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your cake structure and softness.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter to perfection, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds that rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to that perfect height.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Works with the baking powder to create a light, tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the chocolate and cherry flavors.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and moisture, making the cake irresistibly soft.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with warm sweetness.
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without overpowering.
- 2 1/2 cups pitted dark sweet cherries: The star of the cherry filling, fresh or frozen works beautifully.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cherries just right.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling to perfect spoonability.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps blend the filling ingredients smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon kirsch (optional): Adds a traditional cherry brandy note, but you can skip or substitute as desired.
- 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped into cloud-like frosting.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds fragrant depth to the whipped cream.
- Chocolate shavings or curls: For an elegant and tasty cake decoration.
- Whole cherries for garnish: The classic finishing touch for that authentic Black Forest look.
How to Make Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping three 8-inch round pans with butter and parchment paper. Mix your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—in a large bowl until evenly combined. Then whisk in the wet ingredients: buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or water. This unique step elevates the chocolate flavor and ensures a moist, tender crumb. Divide the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
While the cakes cool, combine your cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning and cook until the mixture thickens, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Turn off the heat and gently stir in kirsch if you’re using it—this traditional addition brings a subtle boozy cherry essence that’s hard to resist. Let the filling cool completely so it’s ready to layer without melting the whipped cream.
Step 3: Whip the Cream Frosting
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for best results, then whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to stiff peaks. This whipped cream frosting is wonderfully light and fluffy, creating a dreamy contrast to the dense chocolate cake and vibrant cherry filling. Be careful not to overwhip, or it could become grainy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place your first cake layer on the serving plate and spread a generous layer of whipped cream over it. Spoon some of the cherry filling next, distributing it evenly but not too thick to keep the cake stable. Repeat with the second cake layer—whipped cream then cherry filling. Finish by placing the last cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with a smooth layer of whipped cream frosting. Decorate with chocolate shavings and whole cherries for that authentic Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe look and extra flair.
How to Serve Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Always have fun with your garnishes! Whole fresh cherries or maraschino cherries bring visual appeal and a pop of color. Chocolate shavings or curls give a sophisticated touch and a little extra chocolate kiss with each bite. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar can add a delicate finish if you like.
Side Dishes
This Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe shines on its own but pairing it with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries can add a refreshing dimension. For a festive touch, serve it with a glass of sparkling wine or a cherry liqueur-based cocktail, complementing the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning your cake slices into elegant individual parfaits layered with whipped cream and cherry filling for a stunning presentation. Or twist the traditional by serving mini versions as bite-sized cake bites or cupcakes. No matter how you serve it, the Mile-High Black Forest Cake always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays moist and fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the whipped cream frosting and cherry filling, it’s best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers before assembly to save time—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect from freezer burn. Thaw completely before adding the whipped cream and cherry filling, as these won’t freeze well once combined.
Reheating
Avoid reheating this cake since the whipped cream frosting loses its texture with heat. Instead, bring slices to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and softness. If you want a warm dessert, pairing a cool slice with a warm beverage is the perfect alternative.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for the filling?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully here. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking your filling to avoid it becoming too watery.
Is kirsch necessary for the cherry filling?
Kirsch is traditional and adds an authentic boozy cherry flavor, but it’s completely optional. You can substitute with cherry juice or skip it to keep the recipe alcohol-free.
How long does it take to make this cake?
From start to finish, expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking and cooling time. It’s a manageable project for a special weekend treat or celebration.
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the layers a day ahead, wrap them tightly, and keep refrigerated. The cherry filling and whipped cream frosting should be made fresh for best results.
What’s the best way to get clean slices when serving?
For neat slices, chill the fully assembled cake for at least an hour before cutting. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts to glide through layers smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished dessert for special occasions and family gatherings alike. The harmony of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream makes every bite unforgettable, and the impressive height ensures it’s a centerpiece worth sharing. Give it a go and watch smiles grow with every slice served!
Print
Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mile-High Black Forest Cake is an indulgent German-inspired dessert featuring moist chocolate cake layers filled with a luscious cherry filling and topped with fluffy whipped cream frosting. This elegant layered cake is garnished with chocolate shavings and whole cherries, creating a stunning presentation perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 1/2 cups pitted dark sweet cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon kirsch (optional)
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Whole cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
- Make the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Slowly pour in the hot coffee or hot water while stirring continuously to create a smooth batter.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and cool them completely in their pans before removing.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in kirsch if using. Allow the filling to cool completely before assembling the cake.
- Make the Whipped Cream Frosting: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. This will create a light, fluffy frosting perfect for layering and coating the cake.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the cake surface, then spoon some of the cherry filling evenly on top. Repeat this layering with the second cake layer. Top with the final cake layer and coat the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
- Decorate: Garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or curls and whole cherries to enhance both appearance and flavor.
Notes
- For easier and cleaner slicing, chill the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving.
- If you prefer an alcohol-free version, substitute kirsch with cherry juice or omit it entirely.
- This cake is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Use fresh cherries when in season for the best flavor, or frozen cherries work well if properly thawed and drained.
