Published
- 2 min read
Black Forest Cake
Black Forest cake is a rich and decadent chocolate sponge cake layered with whipped cream and cherries. Infused with a hint of coffee and cocoa, this classic dessert is perfect for celebrations, offering a beautiful balance of moist layers and light, creamy filling.
Info
- Prep Time: About 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: About 35 minutes
- Cooling Time: About 1 hour
Ingredients
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Cake flour – 3/4 cup
(To substitute: Use 1 cup all-purpose flour, remove 2 tablespoons, and replace with 2 tablespoons of cornflour) -
Cocoa powder – 1/4 cup
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Instant coffee powder – 1 teaspoon
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Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
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Salt – 1 pinch (optional)
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Buttermilk – 1/2 cup
(To make: Mix 1 cup whole milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes) -
Cooking oil – 1/2 cup
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Vanilla extract (Halal) – 1 teaspoon
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Strawberry essence – 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for added aroma)
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Granulated sugar – 3/4 cup
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Whole eggs – 2 large, at room temperature
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Vinegar – 1 teaspoon
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Baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon
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Cake mold – 6.5 to 7-inch round pan
Procedure
- Sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, coffee powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl or mug, mix the buttermilk, cooking oil, vanilla extract, and strawberry essence (if using). Set aside.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks.
- In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the egg whites.
- Beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar in three batches, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Stop the mixer once the meringue is ready.
- Using a spatula or hand whisk, gently fold in the dry ingredients and wet mixture in alternating batches.
- Do not use an electric mixer at this stage to preserve the airiness of the batter.
- Line a 6.5–7 inch round cake pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap it gently to release air bubbles.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for approximately 35 minutes.
- For stovetop baking, cover and bake over low heat for around 45 minutes.
Notes
- Make sure the mixing bowl is completely clean and dry—any yolk or moisture can prevent the meringue from forming.
- For authentic Black Forest flavor, soak the cake layers with cherry syrup or kirsch before layering with whipped cream and cherries.
- The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing or decorating.