Savor the taste of tradition with our heavenly Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, a quintessential German dessert renowned worldwide for its rich flavors and exquisite layers. Translated as Black Forest Cherry Cake, this decadent delight comprises layers of chocolate sponge cake soaked in cherry brandy, adorned with whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings, and luscious cherries. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors, reminiscent of the enchanting Black Forest region. Whether enjoyed as a dessert after a hearty meal or as a centerpiece for celebrations, our Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte promises an unforgettable culinary experience that embodies the essence of German baking craftsmanship.

Here's a classic recipe for Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, the beloved Black Forest cherry cake from Germany:

Ingredients:

For the chocolate cake layers:

• 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the cherry filling:

• 2 cups (500g) pitted cherries (fresh or canned), drained
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 tablespoons Kirschwasser (cherry brandy), optional

For the whipped cream:

• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, chilled
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For decoration:

• Dark chocolate shavings
• Additional cherries for topping

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.

Prepare the chocolate cake layers: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined. Reduce speed and carefully pour in the boiling water, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin.

Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the cherry filling: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and Kirschwasser (if using). Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices, stirring occasionally. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the cherry mixture and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Prepare the whipped cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by a layer of cherry filling. Place the second cake layer on top and press gently.

Frost the cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate the top with dark chocolate shavings and additional cherries.

Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Slice and enjoy this indulgent Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte!

This classic recipe captures the essence of the iconic Black Forest cherry cake, perfect for any occasion or celebration. Guten Appetit!

Nutritional Values:

Providing precise nutritional values for recipes can be challenging due to variations in ingredients, serving sizes, and specific brands used. However, I can offer approximate nutritional information for some of the main ingredients in the Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte recipe:

All-purpose flour (1 and 3/4 cups, 220g):

• Calories: 778
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 163g
• Fiber: 6g

benefits:Provides carbohydrates for energy and contains some protein and fiber.

Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup, 75g):

• Calories: 228
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 34g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. Cocoa powder has been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health and mood enhancement.

Granulated sugar (1 and 3/4 cups, 350g):

• Calories: 720
• Carbohydrates: 180g

benefits:A source of quick energy but provides little to no nutritional value. Consumed in moderation to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.

Eggs (2 large):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:High-quality protein source containing essential amino acids. Eggs also provide vitamins (B vitamins, vitamin D) and minerals (iron, zinc) necessary for various bodily functions.

Whole milk (1 cup, 240ml):

• Calories: 149
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits:Good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D, essential for bone health. It also contains other vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, potassium, and phosphorus.

Vegetable oil (1/2 cup, 120ml):

• Calories: 964
• Fat: 109g

benefits:Contains unsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health. Provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E.

Cherries (2 cups, 500g):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Fiber: 10g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and vitamin C. Cherries have anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit heart health, exercise recovery, and sleep quality.

Heavy cream (2 cups, 480ml):

• Calories: 1,440
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 152g
• Carbohydrates: 16g

benefits:High in fat and calories, heavy cream provides energy and adds richness to dishes. Contains fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin E.

Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, 60g):

• Calories: 234
• Carbohydrates: 60g

benefits:Essentially granulated sugar ground into a fine powder. Used for sweetness and texture in recipes but offers minimal nutritional benefits.

Dark chocolate shavings (for decoration):

• Nutritional information varies based on the amount used and the specific brand. Dark chocolate is a source of calories, fat, and carbohydrates.

benefits:Dark chocolate contains antioxidants called flavonoids, which may improve heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow. It also provides small amounts of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as ingredient brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes. If you require precise nutritional information, it's recommended to calculate it using the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe.