Are you a dessert lover looking for a showstopper recipe? Look no further than this 3-layer Black Forest Cake, perfect for any special occasion. With a rich chocolate-cherry flavor and a calorie count of 3395 per cake, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

To break it down further, each slice of this cake is approximately 425 calories. But with those calories come a delicious blend of chocolate sponge cake layers, cherry compote, and Whipped Cream Frosting that are well worth the indulgence.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of Baking this cake, as well as some tips for variations and serving suggestions.

Flavor Profile

If you're unfamiliar with the flavor of Black Forest Cake, imagine a decadent blend of chocolate and cherry flavors in every bite. The chocolate sponge cake layers are infused with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor, while the cherry compote provides a sweet-tart contrast. The Whipped Cream Frosting brings it all together with a light and creamy finish.

Baking Time

Baking time for this cake will vary based on the size of the pan used. For an 8-inch or 9-inch diameter pan, bake the cake layers for 25-30 minutes at 350°F. Allow the layers to cool completely before assembling the cake.

Calories Per Slice

As mentioned earlier, each slice of this 3-Layer Cake contains approximately 425 calories. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to remember that this cake is intended for special occasions and should be enjoyed in moderation.

Ingredients List

To make this Black Forest Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can cherry pie filling
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup Chocolate Shavings or curls (optional)

Frosting Type

This Black Forest Cake is frosted with a classic Whipped Cream Frosting, which complements the rich chocolate and cherry flavors perfectly. To make the frosting, beat 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Decoration Ideas

To decorate your Black Forest Cake, you can use Chocolate Shavings or curls, fresh cherries, or even chocolate-dipped cherries. You can also pipe the Whipped Cream Frosting using a piping bag and decorating tip for a more professional look. Get creative and have fun with it!

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect for any special occasion, such as birthdays, holidays, and dinner parties. Cut each slice of cake carefully with a sharp knife, as the layers can be delicate. Serve with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for a delicious and indulgent treat.

Storage Recommendations

This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the cake for up to 1 month if desired.

Variations to Try

While this classic Black Forest Cake recipe is delicious as-is, there are some variations you can try to mix things up. For example, you can add Kirsch or cherry liqueur to the cherry compote for a boozy twist. Or, you can use a different type of frosting, such as chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting. Get creative and put your own spin on this classic recipe!

Expert Tips

- Be sure to use good quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor in your cake. - If you don't have cherry pie filling, you can make your own by cooking down fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and a little bit of cornstarch. - To make sure your cake layers are even, weigh the batter before pouring it into the pans.