Black Forest Cherry Cake
A indulgent Black Forest Cherry Cake featuring layers of chocolate, cherry filling, whipped cream, and topped with cherries and chocolate curls, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare and bake two 9-inch cakes according to the package directions.
- Cool the cakes on a wire rack.
- Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice.
- Sprinkle the reserved cherry juice over one layer of the cake.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the soaked layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top.
- Spread whipped cream over the top and sides of the assembled cake.
- Decorate with cherries and chocolate curls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using a chocolate cake mix instead of a standard one. If you can't find maraschino cherries, fresh cherries can be used instead, though you'll need to add a bit of sugar. For a lighter texture, whip the cream until soft peaks form before spreading it on the cake. This dessert pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Pound Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for special occasions and pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Serve it alongside a light salad like Cranberry Freeze Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a slice of Cream Cheese Pecan Cake to impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Black Forest Cherry Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Forest Cherry Cake contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. Assemble the cake with the cherry filling and whipped cream just before serving to ensure freshness and prevent sogginess.
How do I make my whipped cream stable?
To make your whipped cream more stable, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch or instant vanilla pudding mix while whipping. This will help it hold its shape longer, especially if the cake will be displayed for a few hours.
What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can substitute cherry pie filling with a mixture of fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a bit of cornstarch. Cook this mixture on the stovetop until it thickens, allowing for a fresh and fruity layer in your cake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).