Description
Black Forest Gateau, also known as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is a classic German dessert that combines the best of chocolate and fruit in a beautiful, multi-layered cake. The dish originated from the Black Forest region of Germany, and its name is derived from the traditional use of Kirschwasser (cherry schnapps), which hails from the region. The cake is known for its combination of dark chocolate cake, whipped cream, and fresh cherries, usually garnished with shaved chocolate.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups (300g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp kirsch (optional)
For the Pistachio Cream Layer:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (60g) finely ground pistachios (unsalted)
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, chilled
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Decoration:
- Fresh cherries
- Shaved dark chocolate
- Crushed pistachios
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Slowly mix in the boiling water (the batter will be thin, but that’s normal).
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices (about 5 minutes).
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the cherries and cook until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the kirsch (if using). Let the filling cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Pistachio Cream Layer
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in the ground pistachios.
- Refrigerate the pistachio cream until ready to use.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling evenly over the top.
- Add a generous layer of pistachio cream on top of the cherries.
- Place the second chocolate cake layer on top and spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the entire cake, including the sides.
- Decorate the cake with fresh cherries, shaved chocolate, and crushed pistachios.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Slice and enjoy your unique Black Forest Gateau with Pistachio Cream Layer!
Notes
This twist on the classic Black Forest Gateau adds a nutty surprise with creamy pistachio layers—perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress! For an extra touch, garnish with crushed pistachios and dark chocolate shavings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: Black Forest Gateau with a Decadent Pistachio Cream Layer