Discover the magic of a timeless classic made effortlessly! This incredibly simple yet indulgently sweet Black Forest Cake brings together the rich, deep flavors of chocolate cake, the vibrant burst of cherry pie filling, and a hint of almond, all crowned with a cloud of creamy Cool Whip. It’s a dessert that boasts a stunning presentation perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering, yet its simplicity makes it an ideal treat to whip up for a casual weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Contents

Effortless Elegance: The Ultimate Easy Black Forest Cake Recipe

There’s an undeniable charm to a homemade cake, especially one as iconic and universally loved as Black Forest Cake. But what if you could achieve that luxurious taste and stunning appearance without spending hours in the kitchen? Our easy Black Forest Cake recipe is designed to do just that. It’s a delightful shortcut to pure indulgence, leveraging a simple chocolate cake mix to create a perfectly moist and tender foundation, layered with a sweet, tart cherry pie filling and a dreamy topping of Cool Whip. This isn’t just a cake; it’s a celebration of convenience and classic flavors, making it accessible to even the most novice bakers. Prepare to be enchanted by its bold flavors and beautiful presentation, all while enjoying the ease of its preparation.

Why This Black Forest Cake Recipe Stands Apart

When it comes to desserts, the balance between ease of preparation and extraordinary taste is often elusive. However, this particular Black Forest Cake recipe masterfully strikes that balance, making it an absolute favorite for countless reasons. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular, proving that you don’t need to be a pastry chef to bake a showstopping dessert.

Unbelievably Easy: The secret to its simplicity lies in using a high-quality cake mix as its base. Forget tedious measuring and sifting of multiple dry ingredients. With a Devil’s Food cake mix, you’re already halfway to a moist, rich chocolate cake. Just a few additional pantry staples transform it into a masterpiece, saving you precious time and effort.
Irresistibly Delicious: This isn’t just easy; it’s profoundly delicious. The chocolate cake boasts an exquisite moistness that practically melts in your mouth, offering a rich cocoa flavor that’s both comforting and decadent. Paired with the juicy, slightly tart cherries and the light, creamy Cool Whip, each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy, soft and smooth textures. It’s a flavor combination that chocolate and fruit lovers will adore.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, hosting a casual dinner party, or simply craving something sweet, this Black Forest Cake fits every bill. Its elegant appearance makes it suitable for formal gatherings, while its straightforward preparation ensures it’s never too much trouble for an impromptu treat.
The Ultimate Holiday Treat: There’s something inherently festive about the combination of deep chocolate and bright red cherries, making this cake a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces as you present this stunning, flavorful cake during Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any special seasonal celebration. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that evokes warmth and joy.
Aromatic Experience: Beyond the taste, the baking process itself is a treat. As this cake bakes, your kitchen will be filled with the intoxicating aroma of rich chocolate and sweet cherries, a prelude to the deliciousness that awaits.

A Personal Journey: From Holiday Staple to Blog Favorite

My first encounter with making this delightful Black Forest Cake was for our family Christmas dinner in 2016. The holidays always ignite a special craving for cherry desserts in me, a tradition that extends right through Valentine’s Day. Naturally, this cake, with its luscious cherry filling, felt like the perfect festive addition. It was a huge hit that evening, loved by everyone around the table. However, as often happens when you’re caught up in the joy of the moment (and perhaps a little late-night baking after an hour-long drive to the in-laws), the initial photos I took of it were, shall we say, less than stellar. The lighting was poor, and the hurried snapshots didn’t do justice to the cake’s true beauty and deliciousness.

Years passed, but the memory of that cake’s success lingered, along with the regret of not capturing its true charm. Finally, I carved out the time to re-shoot it, determined to showcase just how visually appealing and truly showstopping this dessert is. And I’m so glad I did! The vibrant layers, the rich chocolate, and the creamy white topping are a feast for the eyes, perfectly matching the incredible flavors. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory transformed into a visually stunning, easy-to-make classic that I’m thrilled to share with you now.

Unraveling the Mystery: What Exactly is Black Forest Cake?

The Black Forest Cake, known in German as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is far more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural icon. Traditionally, this decadent German gateau is a masterpiece of layers: moist chocolate sponge cake, rich cherry filling (often made with tart cherries), and generous amounts of whipped cream. What truly sets it apart and gives it its authentic character is the distinctive cherry brandy, or Kirschwasser (often shortened to Kirsch), which is typically used to soak the cake layers and enhance the cherry flavor. This spirited touch is actually where the cake gets its name, drawing inspiration from the specialty liquor distilled from tart cherries found in Germany’s Black Forest region.

While our simplified recipe uses cherry pie filling and omits the Kirsch for broader appeal and ease, the essence of the Black Forest Cake remains: a harmonious blend of deep chocolate, bright cherries, and creamy lightness. Beyond these core components, traditional garnishes often include chocolate shavings or curls dusted over the whipped cream, and of course, fresh cherries, sometimes stemmed, sometimes with their stems on, adding both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor. Whether you stick to the authentic version or opt for this delightful shortcut, the result is always a universally beloved dessert.

The Symphony of Flavors: What to Expect from Every Bite

Prepare your palate for a truly unforgettable experience with every forkful of this easy Black Forest Cake. It’s a dessert that excites the senses, offering a delightful interplay of textures and tastes that make it a true crowd-pleaser. The first sensation is the rich, sweet chocolate, delivered through an incredibly moist and tender cake that practically melts on your tongue. This isn’t just any chocolate; it’s a deep, satisfying cocoa flavor that forms the perfect foundation for the other elements.

Following the chocolate, you’ll encounter the juicy, vibrant burst of cherry. Our cherry pie filling provides a wonderful balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness, cutting through the richness of the chocolate and adding a refreshing fruitiness. The almond extract infused within the cake and the filling adds another layer of complexity, a subtle nutty undertone that complements both the chocolate and cherry beautifully, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Finally, the smooth, creamy Cool Whip brings it all together. Its light, airy texture and balanced sweetness provide a cooling contrast to the dense cake and fruit, creating a harmonious blend that leaves a lingering, pleasant aftertaste. If you are a fan of chocolate and fruit pairings, especially the classic combination of chocolate and cherry, then this creamy, moist, and utterly delicious Black Forest Cake will undoubtedly become your new favorite. It’s a decadent treat that feels incredibly luxurious, yet its straightforward preparation means you can enjoy this culinary delight whenever the craving strikes.

Gather Your Delights: Essential Ingredients for Your Black Forest Masterpiece

One of the beauties of this Black Forest Cake recipe lies in its approachable ingredient list. We’ve streamlined it to ensure maximum flavor with minimal fuss, using components readily available in most grocery stores. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delectable dessert:

Devil’s Food Cake Mix: This is our secret weapon for an easy and incredibly rich chocolate cake. Devil’s Food cake mix is renowned for its deep cocoa flavor and moist texture, providing the perfect foundation for our Black Forest creation. While other chocolate cake mixes can work, Devil’s Food consistently delivers that intense chocolatey goodness we crave in this classic dessert. It’s a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t compromise on taste!
Water & Eggs: These standard additions to any cake mix help create a moist, fluffy, and perfectly structured cake. The eggs also contribute to the cake’s tenderness and provide a binding element that ensures your layers hold together beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour: A couple of tablespoons of flour are added to the cake mix to give it a slightly more structured crumb, making it easier to handle and cut into layers without crumbling. This small addition enhances the homemade feel of the cake.
Almond Extract: This unassuming ingredient is a game-changer for Black Forest Cake. Its nutty, slightly bitter-sweet aroma perfectly complements the chocolate and especially brightens the cherry flavor. We use it both in the cake batter and mixed with the cherry pie filling to infuse every layer with its irresistible essence, creating a more complex and authentic taste.
Cherry Pie Filling: For ultimate convenience and consistent flavor, a can of store-bought cherry pie filling is absolutely ideal. It provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart cherries suspended in a thick, glossy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous and have extra time, you can certainly prepare a homemade cherry filling from scratch using fresh or frozen tart cherries, sugar, and a thickener. Either way, this vibrant cherry layer is non-negotiable for a true Black Forest experience.
Cool Whip: This light, airy, and creamy whipped topping crowns our Black Forest Cake, providing a delicate sweetness and a beautiful contrast to the rich chocolate and bold cherries. Cool Whip is convenient, stable, and holds its shape wonderfully, making for easy frosting and presentation. For those who prefer a more traditional touch or enjoy homemade elements, a stabilized homemade whipped cream frosting is an excellent alternative that adds a luxurious, fresh dairy note.

With these simple ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure that promises a truly rewarding outcome.

Baking Bliss: Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Black Forest Cake

Crafting this easy Black Forest Cake is a straightforward and rewarding process. By following these simple steps, you’ll create a beautifully layered, richly flavored dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. Let’s get baking!

Step 1: Prepare Your Foundation – The Chocolate Cake Batter

First things first, ensure your oven is ready. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet. We’ll be using a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet. To prevent sticking and ensure easy removal, grease the pan, then line it with aluminum foil, and lightly grease the foil as well. This extra step will make lifting the delicate cake layers a breeze later on.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix, water, three large eggs, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat these ingredients together until they are just combined and smooth, which usually takes about two minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher cake. You want a light and airy batter.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection and Cool

Once your batter is mixed, pour it evenly into the prepared baking sheet. Gently spread it to the corners with a spatula to ensure an even thickness. Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for approximately eighteen to twenty minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry cake.

After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to rest in the pan for about ten minutes. This initial cooling helps the cake set. Then, carefully use the edges of the foil to lift the cake gently from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the cake to cool fully before layering is crucial to prevent the layers from tearing or the filling from melting.

Step 3: The Luscious Cherry Layer

While your cake is cooling, prepare your cherry filling. In a small bowl, combine the can of cherry pie filling with the remaining 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Stir gently to incorporate the almond extract evenly. This small addition significantly enhances the cherry flavor, adding a depth that elevates the entire cake.

Once the cake is completely cooled, it’s time to create the layers. Carefully cut the rectangular cake in half crosswise, creating two equal layers, each roughly 10×7 inches. Place one of these chocolate cake layers onto your chosen cake plate or serving dish. Evenly spread the almond-infused cherry pie filling over this first cake layer, ensuring it covers the surface almost to the edges. This creates a beautiful, luscious middle.

Carefully place the second cake layer directly on top of the cherry pie filling. Take your time to align it properly, ensuring an even and attractive cake structure.

Step 4: The Grand Finale – Frosting and Presentation

With your cake beautifully layered, it’s time for the final touch: frosting. Generously frost the top and all sides of the Black Forest Cake with the thawed Cool Whip. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create smooth, elegant swirls or a clean, even finish, depending on your preference. The white Cool Whip provides a stunning contrast to the dark chocolate cake and peeking cherry filling.

Once frosted, refrigerate the cake until it’s ready to be served. Chilling the cake allows the Cool Whip to set firmly and gives the flavors time to meld together perfectly, enhancing the overall taste and texture. When you’re ready to serve, slice into this magnificent creation and watch your guests marvel at your effortless elegance. Enjoy every decadent bite!

Pro Tips for Your Best Black Forest Cake Yet

While this Black Forest Cake recipe is delightfully simple, a few extra tips can elevate your baking experience and ensure a flawless, delicious result every time. These insights will help you customize, troubleshoot, and store your cake like a seasoned pro.

Choosing Your Chocolate Cake Mix: While Devil’s Food cake mix is recommended for its deep flavor, feel free to experiment with any rich chocolate cake mix. A dark chocolate fudge mix, for instance, could offer an even more intense chocolate experience, while a standard chocolate cake mix will yield a slightly milder flavor.
Homemade vs. Canned Cherry Pie Filling: The recipe’s brilliance lies in the ease of canned cherry pie filling, which is quick, consistent, and tastes wonderful. However, if you prefer to make your cherry pie filling from scratch, go for it! Using fresh or frozen tart cherries with a homemade glaze can add another layer of gourmet flavor. Just ensure your homemade filling is cooled completely before layering.
Whipped Topping Alternatives: Cool Whip provides fantastic stability and convenience. For a more classic and luxurious touch, consider using a homemade whipped cream frosting. To prevent it from deflating, stabilize your homemade whipped cream with a little unflavored gelatin or cream cheese. This ensures it holds its shape beautifully over time.
Perfect Storage Solutions: To maintain its freshness, store any leftover Black Forest Cake in an airtight container. At room temperature, it will keep for up to three days, though refrigeration is generally recommended due to the whipped topping. When refrigerated in an airtight container, the cake will stay delicious for about a week.
Preventing Overbaking: Chocolate cakes can quickly dry out if overbaked. Keep a close eye on your oven during the last few minutes of baking. The toothpick test is your best friend here: remove the cake as soon as the toothpick comes out clean to preserve its incredible moistness.
Enhance with Kirsch (Optional): For an authentic German touch, lightly brush your cooled cake layers with Kirschwasser (cherry brandy) before adding the cherry filling. This traditional liquor adds a unique depth of flavor that defines a classic Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte.
Garnish for Grandeur: Elevate your cake’s presentation by garnishing the top with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder. These small touches add visual appeal and a professional finish.

Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings

This Easy Black Forest Cake is a showstopper on its own, but a few thoughtful serving suggestions can elevate the experience even further. For a truly elegant presentation, serve each slice with an extra dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. A few fresh cherries artfully placed beside the slice also add a pop of color and a touch of gourmet flair. The deep, rich flavors of the cake pair wonderfully with a robust cup of coffee or a dark, fruity tea. For an adult indulgence, consider a small glass of Kirsch (cherry brandy) or a dessert wine that complements the cherry notes. This cake is also fantastic alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for an extra layer of decadence. Its versatility means it’s equally delightful as the grand finale of a holiday meal or a comforting treat on a quiet evening.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Black Forest Cake

What gives Black Forest Cake its distinct flavor?: The signature taste comes from the rich combination of moist chocolate cake, sweet and slightly tart cherry filling, and creamy whipped topping. The hint of almond extract further enhances these flavors, creating a harmonious and complex profile. Traditionally, cherry brandy (Kirschwasser) is also used to soak the cake layers.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?: Absolutely! This cake is excellent for making ahead. Assemble the entire cake, then cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cake to become even more moist.
Is Kirsch essential for Black Forest Cake?: While traditional Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) is famously made with Kirsch (cherry brandy), our easy recipe omits it, making it family-friendly and accessible. The almond extract in our recipe provides a wonderful flavor complexity that complements the cherries beautifully without alcohol. You can always add a splash of Kirsch if you prefer an authentic, boozy kick!
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?: Yes, you can! If you opt for homemade whipped cream, it’s best to stabilize it to ensure it holds its shape on the cake. You can do this by adding a small amount of gelatin or cream cheese to your whipping cream before beating it. This will prevent it from weeping or deflating.

More Indulgent Cherry & Chocolate Delights to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the combination of chocolate and cherry, or simply enjoy effortless yet impressive desserts, you’re in luck! Here are more delicious recipes that feature these irresistible flavors or offer similar easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing qualities:

Cherry Filled Coffee Cake (pictured above) – A delightful morning or anytime treat bursting with cherry goodness.
Sour Cream Coffee Cake – Another wonderfully moist and flavorful coffee cake option.
Strawberry Cake – A fresh and vibrant cake perfect for spring and summer.
Mom’s Cherry Dessert – A nostalgic and comforting cherry delight.
Carrot Bundt Cake – A classic, spiced cake with a beautiful bundt shape.
Chocolate Cherry Brownies – Rich, fudgy brownies studded with sweet cherries.
Chocolate Pancakes with Raspberry Sauce – A decadent breakfast or brunch option.

This Easy Black Forest Cake is a true testament to how simple ingredients can yield an impressive, delicious result. Its stunning presentation and unforgettable blend of chocolate and cherry flavors are sure to garner rave reviews from everyone who tries a slice. Bake it for your next celebration, or simply to treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss!

Black Forest Cake: The Recipe Card

LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!

Black Forest Cake

Easy to make, beautiful presentation, this chocolate and cherry Black Forest Cake is sure to get rave reviews!

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Additional Time

1 hr (cooling)

Total Time

1 hr 30 mins

Cuisine: Dessert

Keywords: Black Forest Cake, easy chocolate cherry cake, cake mix dessert, holiday cake, simple black forest cake

Servings: 16

Calories: 214 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Rubber Spatulas
Kitchenaid Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
15x10x1-inch Baking Sheet
Wire Rack
Cake Plate or Serving Dish

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 (15.25 oz) box Devil’s Food Cake Mix
1 1/2 cups water
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For the Filling:

1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Topping:

12 ounces (approx. 3.5 cups) Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet. Line it with aluminum foil and lightly grease the foil. Set aside.
Using your mixer, beat together the cake mix, water, flour, eggs, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for 2 minutes until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Gently lift the cake from the pan using the foil and cool completely on a wire rack.
While the cake cools, mix the remaining 1 teaspoon almond extract with the cherry pie filling in a small bowl.
Once the cake is fully cooled, cut it in half to make two approximate 10×7-inch layers. Place one layer on your serving dish and top evenly with the cherry pie filling. Place the remaining cake layer on top of the filling.
Frost the top and sides of the cake generously with the thawed Cool Whip.
Refrigerate until ready to eat. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the topping to set beautifully.

Notes

This recipe was originally inspired by a classic Pillsbury recipe. For a traditional German touch, consider brushing the cooled cake layers with Kirsch (cherry brandy) before adding the cherry filling. If using homemade whipped cream, stabilize it with a bit of gelatin or cream cheese to ensure it holds its shape.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 214 kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 259mg
Sugar: 19g

This recipe was originally posted on January 11, 2016. It has been thoroughly updated and expanded to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and provide a more comprehensive guide on December 22, 2021.