Mile High Black Forest Cake

Hey, you ever dream about a super tall, chocolatey cake? Well, I made a Mile-High Black Forest Cake, and it’s like a sweet tower of yum! It’s got layers of chocolate, cherries, and fluffy cream that make your taste buds dance.

So, I stacked rich chocolate cake with juicy cherry filling. The whipped cream is, like, super light and dreamy. Every bite feels like a big, happy hug from dessert heaven.

Man, I can’t stop thinking about this cake! You’ll want to grab a fork and dig into those moist layers. It’s perfect for parties or just treating yourself.

Come on, let’s bake this Mile-High Black Forest Cake together! I’ve got an easy recipe you can follow. Ready to make something totally awesome?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Mouthwatering Layers: This cake features layers of rich, moist chocolate cake paired with luscious cherry filling and whipped cream—a combination that’s impossible to resist.
• Impressive Yet Easy: While it may look like a showstopper, this cake is surprisingly straightforward to make. I promise you’ll get plenty of compliments with minimal effort!
• Great for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday or a holiday gathering, this cake is guaranteed to turn heads and fill your home with sweet aromas.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, making it as boozy or as fruity as you’d like!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This cake can be made in advance—it’s perfect for prepping ahead of time and saving you stress on the big day.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need:

• 9-inch Round Cake Pans – Two of these to bake the cake layers.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – To beat the cake batter and the whipped cream.
• Spatula – For spreading the frosting and cherry filling.
• Cake Stand or Serving Platter – To display your gorgeous cake.
• Cake Slicing Tools – To cut through those thick layers of chocolatey goodness.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure precise measurements of your ingredients.
• Cooling Rack – To cool your cake layers evenly.

Ingredients for the Mile High Black Forest Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• Granulated Sugar – 1 ½ cups
• Light Brown Sugar (packed) – ½ cup
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – ¾ cup
• Baking Soda – 1 ½ tsp
• Baking Powder – 1 tsp
• Espresso Powder (optional) – 1 tsp (This adds depth to the chocolate flavor)
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Large Eggs (room temperature) – 3
• Large Egg Yolk (room temperature) – 1
• Sour Cream (room temperature) – 1 cup
• Whole Milk (room temperature) – 1 cup
• Canola Oil – ½ cup
• Vanilla Extract – 2 tsp
• Freshly Brewed Hot Coffee – 1 cup (This intensifies the chocolate flavor!)

For the Cherry Filling:

• Fresh or Frozen Cherries – 4 cups (pitted)
• Kirsch Liqueur – ¼ cup (optional, but it adds an authentic flavor)
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
• Cornstarch – 2 tbsp (to thicken the cherry sauce)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• Heavy Cream – 2 cups
• Confectioners’ Sugar – ½ cup
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
• Mini Chocolate Chips (for decoration, optional)
• Grated Dark Chocolate (for decoration, optional)
• Fresh Cherries (for decoration, optional)

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate (finely chopped) – 4 oz
• Espresso Powder (optional) – 1 tsp
• Heavy Whipping Cream – ½ cup
• Kirsch (optional) – 1 tbsp (adds a subtle boozy note)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the instructions and create this towering cake that everyone will rave about.

1. Prepare the Cake Layers

Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper to ensure the cakes don’t stick.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. This mixture is the base for your cake’s rich chocolate flavor.

Combine the Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, sour cream, whole milk, canola oil, and vanilla extract. The wet ingredients should be smooth and well-combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until fully incorporated. Once combined, pour in the hot coffee and stir until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s exactly what you want—it ensures a moist, tender cake.

Bake the Cake Layers:

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Cherry Filling

Prepare the Cherries:

If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them first. If you’re using frozen cherries, make sure they are thawed and drained. Place the cherries in a medium saucepan.

Cook the Cherry Filling:

Add the sugar and cornstarch to the cherries in the pan. Stir to combine and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a syrupy consistency. If you’re using Kirsch liqueur, add it in during the last minute of cooking. Set aside to cool completely.

3. Make the Whipped Cream Topping

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as the cream can turn into butter. Set aside in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cake.

4. Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble!

First Layer:

Place the first layer of cake on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top, smoothing it out evenly.

Add the Cherry Filling:

Top the whipped cream with a layer of cherry filling, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

Second Layer:

Place the second cake layer on top of the cherry filling and repeat the process—adding whipped cream and cherries.

5. Add the Chocolate Glaze

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If you’re using espresso powder or Kirsch, add those in as well.

Drizzle the warm chocolate glaze over the top of the assembled cake, letting it drip down the sides. For an extra touch, sprinkle mini chocolate chips and grated dark chocolate over the top.

6. Decorate the Cake

Top the cake with a few fresh cherries for decoration. You can also sprinkle more chocolate chips or drizzle additional glaze over the cherries for an even more decadent finish.

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7. Chill and Serve

Place the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing all the flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, slice with a sharp knife for perfectly neat layers.

How to Serve Mile High Black Forest Cake

This cake is as versatile as it is delicious! Here’s how to serve it:

• As a Showstopper Dessert: Serve it as the centerpiece of your celebration. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for a luxurious treat.
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: For extra indulgence, serve it with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream on the side.
• With a Fresh Fruit Salad: For a lighter touch, pair the cake with a refreshing fruit salad on the side. The tartness of the fruit complements the richness of the cake.

Storing Mile High Black Forest Cake

• Unassembled: If you plan on making the cake ahead of time, store the individual cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep the cherry filling and whipped cream separately in the fridge.
• Assembled Cake: Once assembled, the cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The whipped cream topping will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the individual cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before assembling.

Nutrition Facts

One of the best parts about Mile High Black Forest Cake is that it feels indulgent but can be tailored to fit various dietary needs. Since this cake features a variety of ingredients, including heavy cream, chocolate, and cherries, it’s definitely a treat to enjoy in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on a standard 12-serving cake):

Nutrition (per serving, 1 slice)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	540
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	15g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	180mg
Carbohydrates	72g
Fiber	3g
Sugars	53g
Protein	5g
Vitamin A	8% DV
Vitamin C	10% DV
Calcium	4% DV
Iron	10% DV

These numbers can vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes. You can reduce the sugar content or swap out ingredients like low-fat cream or sugar substitutes if you’re looking to make this a bit lighter. However, when you’re treating yourself, the full experience is absolutely worth it!

FAQs about Mile High Black Forest Cake

Can I make this cake without alcohol (Kirsch)?

Yes! If you prefer to keep the cake alcohol-free, you can simply skip the Kirsch liqueur. The cherry filling will still be delicious and flavorful without it. You can even substitute it with a bit of cherry juice or a non-alcoholic cherry flavoring for an extra burst of cherry goodness.

How do I make this cake ahead of time?

This cake actually stores well if you want to prepare it ahead of time! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. The cherry filling and whipped cream can be made the day before and stored in the fridge. Simply assemble the cake when you’re ready to serve it.

Can I use a different type of fruit in the filling?

Absolutely! While cherries are traditional for Black Forest Cake, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or even mixed berries for a twist. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness and consistency as needed when cooking the fruit.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! To make the cake gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking cakes. Be sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients throughout, including the whipped cream and chocolate decorations.

How can I make the cake less sweet?

If you want to reduce the sweetness, try using a sugar substitute for the cake and cherry filling. You could also reduce the amount of sugar in the whipped cream or use a more neutral-tasting sugar alternative. Keep in mind, however, that the flavor balance will change slightly.

Is there a way to make this cake more boozy?

If you enjoy a more intense flavor of Kirsch or other liquors, feel free to increase the amount of alcohol in the cherry filling or drizzle more over the layers. Just be mindful that the cake’s texture may slightly change with a larger alcohol ratio.

Troubleshooting Tips

When making a cake as complex as Mile High Black Forest Cake, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Here are some common challenges and how to overcome them:

1. Cake Layers Not Rising:

If your cake layers didn’t rise as expected, it could be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check that your leavening agents are fresh! Also, make sure you didn’t overmix the batter, which can deflate the air and prevent it from rising.

2. Whipped Cream Too Soft:

If your whipped cream turns out too soft or runny, it’s likely because it wasn’t whipped long enough, or your cream wasn’t cold enough to start. Be sure to chill the mixing bowl and beaters, and don’t stop whipping until you reach stiff peaks.

3. Cherry Filling Too Runny:

If your cherry filling doesn’t thicken up, you may not have used enough cornstarch. Feel free to add a little more cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it further. Let the filling cook a little longer to reduce and concentrate the syrup.

4. Cake Layers Too Dry:

Dry cake layers can be caused by overbaking or not measuring your ingredients properly. Always check your cake layers at the minimum baking time and test them with a toothpick to avoid overbaking. Also, if the recipe calls for room-temperature ingredients, make sure they’re at the right temperature to ensure proper mixing.

5. Chocolate Glaze Too Thick or Too Thin:

If your chocolate glaze is too thick, add a little more cream to thin it out. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it cool slightly before drizzling, or add a little more melted chocolate to thicken it to the perfect consistency.

How to Serve Mile High Black Forest Cake

Once you’ve assembled your gorgeous Mile High Black Forest Cake, the fun part is all about serving and presenting it to your guests! This cake is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just when you want to treat yourself. Here’s how I recommend serving and presenting it for maximum impact:

1. Serving as a Showstopper:

• Presentation is Key: Since this cake is tall and layered, it’s definitely a showstopper. Make sure to serve it on a large cake stand or a beautiful platter. The layers and decorations should be visible from all angles, and you can even add a few extra cherries or chocolate shavings on the cake stand for extra flair.
• Chill Before Serving: Since the whipped cream and cherry filling need to stay stable, chill the cake for at least an hour before serving. This allows everything to firm up nicely and makes slicing a lot easier.

2. Slice with Care:

• Sharp Knife: To get clean, neat slices, use a sharp serrated knife to cut through the cake layers. If the knife gets sticky with whipped cream or filling, wipe it clean between cuts.
• Smaller Portions: Given the richness of this cake, I recommend serving smaller slices. A little goes a long way with this decadent dessert!

3. Pairing with Drinks:

• Coffee or Espresso: A nice cup of coffee or espresso pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and cherry flavors of this cake. The bitterness of the coffee helps balance the sweetness.
• Dessert Wine or Champagne: If you’re serving this cake at a celebratory event, you can pair it with a dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a sparkling rosé, to complement the richness of the chocolate.
• Milk or Hot Chocolate: For a classic pairing, a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate will always make this cake taste even more decadent.

4. Top with Additional Garnishes:

• Mini Chocolate Chips or Shavings: For extra chocolatey goodness, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped cream or use a vegetable peeler to make chocolate shavings. This adds texture and makes the cake look extra festive.
• Cherries: Garnish each slice with a fresh cherry for that authentic Black Forest look. If you want to go all out, use maraschino cherries or even soak them in Kirsch for a boozy touch.
• Whipped Cream Piping: If you’re feeling fancy, pipe additional whipped cream onto each slice or around the top of the cake. It gives it an elegant, refined look.

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Mile High Black Forest Cake (which is a rarity, believe me!), here’s how to store it so it stays fresh:

Refrigeration:

• Since this cake is made with whipped cream, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Keep the cake in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• If the cake hasn’t been fully frosted, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If fully frosted, try to eat it within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing the Cake:

• If you need to store the cake longer, you can freeze individual slices! Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat it, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’ll taste nearly as good as the day it was made.
• For larger portions of the cake, consider freezing the layers separately. This allows you to defrost the cake without compromising the texture of the whipped cream and filling.

Reheating Tips:

• While the cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, if you do want to warm it up, I recommend removing the whipped cream topping before reheating. Simply pop the cake in the microwave for 15-20 seconds and then top with freshly whipped cream before serving.

Conclusion

The Mile High Black Forest Cake is everything you could want in a dessert: indulgent, satisfying, and visually stunning. Each layer of moist chocolate cake, tangy cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream makes for a showstopper that will steal the spotlight at any gathering. Plus, you can customize it to suit your tastes, whether you want to make it boozy or fruitier.

I hope you enjoy making this delicious cake as much as I do, and I can’t wait for you to experience how truly decadent and memorable it is! Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit.