Chocolate Forest Layer Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Forest Layer Cake is a rich, show-stopping dessert that combines layers of moist chocolate cake with sweet cherries and fluffy whipped cream. It’s my homemade take on the beloved Black Forest flavor—but without the use of spirits—making it family-friendly, deeply indulgent, and perfect for celebrations. Every slice offers a perfect balance of chocolate and cherry in a creamy, elegant finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cake feels luxurious without being overly complicated. The chocolate layers are soft and fudgy, the cherries give a juicy contrast, and the whipped cream keeps it light and smooth. It looks impressive on the table but comes together with simple ingredients and basic techniques. Whether I’m baking for a birthday, holiday, or just a special dinner, this cake never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chocolate cake:

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Eggs

• Granulated sugar

• Vegetable oil

• Buttermilk

• Vanilla extract

• Hot water or brewed coffee (to enhance the chocolate flavor)

For the filling and topping:

• Pitted cherries (fresh, canned in juice, or cherry pie filling)

• Granulated sugar (if sweetening fresh cherries)

• Whipping cream or heavy cream

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), grease two 8-inch cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment.

2. In a bowl, I whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, I mix eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.

4. I gradually add the dry ingredients, then stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth and pourable.

5. I divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. While the cakes cool, I prepare the cherries. If using fresh or canned cherries, I simmer them gently with a little sugar to create a syrupy filling, then let them cool.

7. I whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

8. To assemble, I slice each cake layer in half for four thin layers. I spread whipped cream and cherries between each, stacking carefully.

9. I frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream and decorate with chocolate shavings and extra cherries.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one tall 8-inch cake, yielding 10–12 generous slices. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, including baking and assembly time.

Variations

• I sometimes use cherry jam instead of whole cherries between layers for an easier spread.

• For a less sweet version, I reduce the sugar in the whipped cream or skip the cherry syrup.

• I’ve made mini versions using cupcake tins for individual layered servings.

• Mixing some mascarpone into the whipped cream gives a richer texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the whipped cream is delicate, I avoid freezing. Before serving leftovers, I let the cake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften the cream and boost the flavor.

FAQs

What kind of cherries should I use?

I use fresh cherries in season, but canned cherries in juice or even cherry pie filling work well too.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Yes, I often bake the cake layers a day ahead, wrap them tightly, and assemble the next day for convenience.

Is this cake overly sweet?

Not at all. The whipped cream balances the sweetness, and I adjust the sugar in the cherry mixture to my taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use a plant-based milk and a non-dairy whipped topping to make it fully dairy-free.

How do I keep the cake from slipping during assembly?

I chill each layer for a few minutes after stacking and use a light hand with the cherry filling to prevent excess moisture.

Conclusion

Chocolate Forest Layer Cake is a stunning dessert that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to serve. With layers of rich cake, juicy cherries, and whipped cream, it’s a timeless treat I return to again and again. Whether I’m celebrating something special or just treating myself, this cake delivers beauty and flavor in every bite.