German Black Forest Cake

German Black Forest Cake is a cherished family recipe with a rich history that can be traced back to Stephanie Travis Fallon’s German great-grandma. The significance of this cake goes beyond its delicious taste, as it symbolizes the passing down of traditions and love through generations. When Stephanie got married, her mother gifted her with her very own copy of this treasured recipe, cementing its place as a family heirloom.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 eggs
• ½ cup canola oil
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• ¾ cup baking cocoa
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt

FILLING:

• 2 cans (14½ ounces each) pitted tart cherries
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cherry brandy or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

WHIPPED CREAM:

• 3 cups heavy whipping cream
• ⅓ cup confectioners’ sugar

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the bottoms of two 9-inch round baking pans with greased paper and grease the paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the whole milk, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract until well blended. Gradually beat in the mixture of all-purpose flour, sugar, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Transfer the batter to the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to a wire rack. Remove the paper and let them cool completely.
4. For the filling, drain the tart cherries, reserving ½ cup of the juice. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and reserved juice. Add the cherries and cook and stir over low heat for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in the cherry brandy. Let the filling cool completely.
5. In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken. Add the confectioners’ sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Using a long serrated knife, cut each cake horizontally in half. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and top it with 1½ cups of whipped cream. Spread ¾ cup of the filling to within 1 inch of the edge. Repeat this process twice. Top with the remaining cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream, reserving some for optional decorations. Spoon the remaining filling onto the top of the cake. Refrigerate until serving.

YIELD:

• 12 servings

COOKING TIME:

• 45 minutes (prep time)
• 30-35 minutes (bake time)
• Cooling time not specified

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• When cutting the cake layers, use a long serrated knife for even and smooth cuts.

TIPS:

• For a non-alcoholic version, use vanilla extract instead of cherry brandy in the filling.

German Black Forest Cake holds a special place in Stephanie Travis Fallon’s heart, as it carries the legacy of her German great-grandma’s cherished recipe. Passed down through generations, this cake is not only a delicious treat but also a symbol of family traditions and love.

The combination of moist chocolate cake layers, tart cherry filling, and luscious whipped cream creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that captivate the taste buds. Stephanie’s mother’s thoughtful gift of the recipe on her wedding day further emphasizes the sentimental value of this dessert in her family.

The origin of Black Forest Cake is an intriguing tale, with two men credited with its creation in different periods, adding to its mystique. Whether it was created in 1915 by pastry chef Josef Keller or in 1930 by Erwin Hildenbrand, the cake’s association with Black Forest cherry brandy or traditional women’s garb in the region contributes to its unique name and cultural significance.

Creating the German Black Forest Cake requires attention to detail, from slicing the cake layers evenly to perfectly layering the whipped cream and cherry filling. The result is a stunning and delicious masterpiece that can serve as the centerpiece of any celebration or special occasion.

Stephanie’s story of passing down the recipe from one generation to another underscores the meaningful role of food in preserving family heritage and memories. The German Black Forest Cake is not just a dessert; it is a connection to the past and a celebration of the present.

In conclusion, the German Black Forest Cake is more than just a recipe; it is a symbol of love, tradition, and shared memories. Stephanie Travis Fallon’s family has lovingly preserved this delightful dessert, ensuring that its legacy continues for generations to come.