Black Forest Gateau with Cherry Filling

Spread the love

Introduction
Indulging in a slice of Black Forest Gateau is like experiencing a taste of elegance and nostalgia wrapped in layers of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and decadent whipped cream. The contrast of flavors is heavenly: the deep, slightly bitter chocolate sponge is perfectly balanced by the vibrant, tart cherries, while the fluffy whipped cream adds an airy, delicate touch. This dessert, popular in European bakeries, combines the best of both worlds: a little indulgence and a lot of sophistication.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this Black Forest Gateau is the perfect way to impress guests or enjoy an indulgent moment alone. Ready in just a few simple steps, it’s the kind of dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, it’s a fun and easy project to tackle in the kitchen.

“A slice of heaven in every bite, this Black Forest Gateau is as beautiful as it is delicious!”

Find more inspiring recipes and culinary adventures on our website – where every dish tells a delicious story.

Key Info Box
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 30 min
Difficulty: Moderate | Cost: $$ (moderate)
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients
Fresh, indulgent, and just the right amount of decadent:

For the chocolate sponge
- 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 150g (5 oz) caster sugar
- 100g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 100ml (3.4 oz) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 tbsp hot water
For the cherry filling
- 400g (14 oz) jar of Morello cherries in syrup (or fresh cherries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice)
- 2 tbsp kirsch (optional, for an authentic touch)
- 2 tbsp sugar (adjust depending on the sweetness of your cherries)
For the whipped cream
- 500ml (2 cups) heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For garnish
- Extra cherries (fresh or preserved)
- Chocolate shavings or grated chocolate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chocolate sponge:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Let it cool slightly. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate, oil (or butter), and vanilla extract, mixing gently. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together and fold into the mixture. Add the hot water to thin out the batter slightly. Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
Bake the sponge:
Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the cherry filling:
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cherry filling. If using fresh cherries, chop them and combine them with sugar and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Simmer until the cherries release their juices and become soft (about 10 minutes). Strain out the juice if you prefer a thicker filling. If using preserved cherries, simply drain them and reserve a small amount of syrup for soaking. For added authenticity, add a tablespoon of kirsch to the cherries for a traditional flavor.
Make the whipped cream:
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can turn buttery.
Assemble the cake:
Once the cakes are completely cool, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers. Place one layer on a serving plate and generously spread with a portion of the whipped cream. Top with a few spoonfuls of the cherry filling. Repeat this process for the remaining layers, finishing with a generous topping of whipped cream and a crown of cherries. Garnish with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate for an extra touch of luxury.
Chill before serving:
Allow the cake to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing. This will help the layers set and allow the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips:

Make the sponge ahead of time: The chocolate sponge can be baked a day ahead, allowing the cake to absorb more flavor and moisture before assembly.
For extra fluffiness: Whip your cream just before assembling the cake to ensure it stays light and airy.
Use fresh cherries when in season: Fresh cherries add a delightful burst of flavor and texture.

Health Benefits
While Black Forest Gateau is certainly a decadent dessert, there are some benefits to the ingredients:

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health. They are also a natural source of melatonin, promoting better sleep. Harvard’s Nutrition Source offers more insights into the benefits of fruit in your diet.

Dark chocolate is known for its heart-healthy benefits, being high in flavonoids that may improve circulation and lower blood pressure. It’s also a source of iron and magnesium. Enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Whipped cream (in moderation) offers calcium, which is essential for bone health, though it’s a treat best enjoyed sparingly.

Variations & Swaps

Vegan version: Swap the eggs with flaxseed or chia egg replacers and use coconut cream or almond cream instead of dairy.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the chocolate sponge.
Fruit alternatives: Replace cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Serving & Storage Tips

Best served chilled: The Black Forest Gateau is best enjoyed after it’s been chilled in the fridge for an hour or two, which helps the flavors set and meld.
Store leftovers: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream: For an added touch, serve each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries?
Frozen cherries are fine, though they may release more liquid when thawed. Drain them well before using them as a filling.

How can I make the whipped cream lighter?
Use a 50/50 blend of heavy cream and mascarpone cheese for an ultra-silky texture that still holds its shape.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving. This allows the flavors to develop further.

Conclusion
This Black Forest Gateau with cherry filling proves that indulgence can be sophisticated and delicious. Perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or special celebrations, this cake delivers an unforgettable experience with its balance of rich chocolate, tart cherries, and creamy texture. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, this cake will undoubtedly impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice.

Treat yourself to a slice of luxury—this cake is worth every bite!

Spread the love