Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte
Black Forest Gateau
A classic and iconic German dessert, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest Gateau, features layers of rich chocolate sponge cake, soaked in Kirsch (cherry liqueur), filled with whipped cream and tart cherries, and adorned with chocolate shavings. A true indulgence.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 Chocolate cake layers(These should be baked in advance and cooled completely. A standard 8-inch (20cm) diameter cake recipe, yielding 3 thin layers, is typical.)
- 400 g Sour cherries(Drained weight. Fresh or preserved sour cherries (like Morello) are best. Reserve the juice if using preserved cherries.)
- 750 ml Heavy whipping cream(Chilled. You'll need more than initially stated for filling and frosting.)
- 100 g Powdered sugar(For sweetening the whipped cream.)
- 80 ml Kirsch (cherry liqueur)(This is crucial for the authentic flavor. Adjust to taste, but don't omit.)
- 150 g Chocolate(Dark or semi-sweet, for shavings and decoration.)
- 50 ml Optional: Cherry juice or syrup(If the cherries are not very juicy, or to enhance the cherry flavor in the filling.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chocolate cake layers. Ensure they are fully cooled before assembly. If not already baked, bake your preferred chocolate sponge cake recipe according to its instructions. Typically, this involves preheating the oven to 175°C (350°F) and baking for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
⏱️ 30-35 minutes (baking) + cooling time - 2
Prepare the kirsch syrup. In a small bowl, combine the Kirsch with 50ml of the reserved cherry juice (or water/simple syrup if no juice is available). Stir well.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the whipped cream. In a large, chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it will turn buttery. Set aside about one-third of the whipped cream for decorating the top and sides.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Assemble the first layer. Place one chocolate cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Generously brush the surface with the kirsch syrup, ensuring it is evenly moistened but not soggy. Spread a layer of whipped cream (from the larger portion) over the syrup.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Add the cherries. Arrange about half of the drained cherries over the whipped cream layer. If using, you can lightly toss the cherries with a tablespoon of kirsch or cherry juice before adding them for extra flavor.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Continue layering. Place the second chocolate cake layer on top of the cherries. Brush it with kirsch syrup, then spread another layer of whipped cream and top with the remaining cherries. Place the final chocolate cake layer on top.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 7
Soak the top layer. Brush the top cake layer generously with the remaining kirsch syrup. This ensures the entire cake is infused with the liqueur's flavor.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 8
Frost the cake. Using the reserved whipped cream, frost the top and sides of the cake smoothly. Aim for an even coating.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 9
Decorate. Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, create chocolate shavings from the chocolate bar. Sprinkle these generously over the top and sides of the cake. You can also pipe rosettes of whipped cream around the edge and top with a few whole cherries for a traditional finish.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 10
Chill thoroughly. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly, making it easier to slice.
⏱️ 2-3 hours minimum chilling
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality and quantity of Kirsch are paramount to achieving the authentic Black Forest flavor. Do not skimp!
- ✓Ensure all dairy products (cream, butter if used in cake) are very cold for optimal whipping.
- ✓Chill the cake for a significant amount of time before slicing. This is crucial for clean cuts and a stable structure.
- ✓For a less boozy version, you can reduce the amount of Kirsch or soak the cake layers with a mixture of cherry juice and a smaller amount of Kirsch.
- ✓The cake is best served chilled.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use a chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for a richer, denser cake.
- Incorporate a layer of cherry jam or compote for an intensified cherry flavor.
- Add a touch of almond extract to the cake batter for added complexity.
- Create individual mini Black Forest cakes in ramekins or as cupcakes.