Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) Recipe
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Layers of rich chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and tart cherries soaked in Kirsch. Finished with chocolate shavings and whole cherries on top.
About This Recipe
"Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)" is a Dessert recipe that brings eggs, sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder and heavy cream together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Hard and ready in about 76 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 12 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.75 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 jar sour cherries, drained
- 3 tbsp Kirschwasser (cherry brandy)
- chocolate shavings for decoration
Instructions
- 1
Beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Fold in flour and cocoa. Bake in 3 layers at 180°C for 12 minutes each.
- 2
Brush each layer with Kirschwasser.
- 3
Whip cream until stiff. Assemble: cake, cream, cherries, repeat.
- 4
Cover the entire cake with remaining cream. Press chocolate shavings on the sides.
- 5
Decorate top with cream rosettes and whole cherries. Chill 2 hours before serving.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Eggs is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)" is a versatile Dessert dish that pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or espresso, lightly sweetened whipped cream, vanilla ice cream and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or at room temperature for 1–2 days if it does not contain dairy or custard. Cover loosely so the texture stays fresh. For the best flavor, bring to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes of prep and 36 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 76 minutes. It serves 12 and is rated Hard.
How do I store leftover Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)?
Store leftover Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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