Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe

The Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe is the kind of showstopper that makes an ordinary day feel utterly extraordinary. Imagine four decadent layers of tender chocolate cake, lush cherry filling, billowy mounds of whipped cream, and the gleam of a glossy chocolate glaze, each bite a symphony of rich, fruity, and creamy flavors. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply indulging the chocoholic within, this cake is unapologetically generous and extravagantly delicious—just the way a legendary Black Forest cake should be.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This classic dessert may look fancy, but every ingredient plays an essential role in making the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe a true masterpiece. The quality of your cocoa, fresh cherries, and real cream will shine in every bite, bringing a homemade touch that no bakery can quite capture.

• Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness to the cake layers for that irresistible crumb.
• Light brown sugar: Brings a subtle note of caramel and helps keep the cake moist.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy yet soft foundation for those sky-high layers.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Splurge on a good quality brand for maximum chocolate flavor.
• Baking soda & baking powder: This dynamic duo ensures a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
• Espresso powder (optional): Just a touch deepens the chocolate without making the cake taste like coffee.
• Salt: Strengthens the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• Large eggs & 1 yolk: Responsible for structure, moisture, and richness.
• Sour cream: Makes the cake wonderfully tender and adds a gentle tang.
• Whole milk: Loosens the batter just enough for a tender crumb.
• Canola oil: Produces a soft, moist cake that stays fresh longer than butter.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate and cherry flavors with warmth.
• Freshly brewed coffee: Intensifies the cocoa, resulting in a deeper, more complex chocolate cake.
• Cherries: Fresh or frozen, they provide the true Black Forest experience—juicy and tart.
• Kirsch liqueur: A classic pairing with cherries, it lends a beautiful, sophisticated kick.
• Sugar & cornstarch (for filling): Sweetens and thickens the cherry compote so it won’t leak through the cake.
• Heavy cream: The key to a dreamy, cloud-like frosting.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without grittiness.
• Mini chocolate chips (optional): Sprinkle between layers or on top for extra chocolate bursts.
• Dark chocolate, grated (optional): Adds beautiful drama as a finishing touch.
• Fresh cherries (for decoration): The ultimate crowning glory for presentation and taste.
• Semi-sweet chocolate: Forms the base of that rich, glossy glaze.
• Espresso powder (for glaze, optional): Mirrors the cake’s rich undertones for a full flavor spectrum.
• Heavy whipping cream (for glaze): Ensures your glaze is silky and glossy every time.
• Kirsch (for glaze, optional): Ties together all the boozy cherry notes in the cake.

How to Make Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grease two 9-inch round pans generously. In one bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients—the flour, sugars, cocoa powder, leaveners, espresso powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine those eggs, yolk, sour cream, milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth and homogenous. Carefully blend wet and dry together, then slowly stream in the hot coffee. Don’t be alarmed: the batter is supposed to be thin! This is what creates those plush, tender layers. Pour evenly into the pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 30 to 35 minutes. Let them cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then fully on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling

While your cakes are cooling, move on to the heart of the Black Forest—those juicy cherries. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and Kirsch. Cook over medium-high, stirring non-stop, until bubbly and thickened, about 6 minutes. Lower the heat and simmer gently for another couple of minutes to soften the fruit. Once thick and syrupy, transfer the filling to a bowl to cool completely before using.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Fluffy pillows of whipped cream are what make the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe so luxurious! Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, start whipping your heavy cream. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla, then whip until sturdy, billowy peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it creamy, not buttery. Keep chilled until ready to assemble.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

For that irresistible glossy topping, place your chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Warm the cream on the stove until hot (not boiling), stir in espresso if using, then pour over your chocolate. Wait a minute—then whisk until silky smooth. Finish with a splash of Kirsch for even more depth. Let this cool for about 5 minutes so it’s lush but pourable.

Step 5: Assemble the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe

Very carefully, slice each cooled cake layer in half horizontally, so you have four even rounds. Place your first cake layer on a beautiful stand or plate. Slather with whipped cream, then dollop on that thick cherry filling. Repeat with the next layers, stacking them high, finishing with cake. Frost the entire top and sides with more whipped cream for that signature snowy look. Drizzle your luscious chocolate glaze over the top, nudging it toward the edges so it gently drips down. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if desired. Chill for at least 20 minutes so everything sets beautifully.

Step 6: Decorate for Perfection

Right before serving, crown your masterpiece with fresh whole cherries and shavings of dark chocolate. Not only does this look incredibly dramatic, but it truly captures the spirit of the original Black Forest treat—cheerful, generous, a little dreamy, and a whole lot delicious.

How to Serve Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For that unmistakable bakery finish, always top your cake with a flourish of whole cherries and a generous scattering of dark chocolate curls or shavings. The ruby red of the cherries, glossy chocolate glaze, and ethereal whipped cream together make the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe a true centerpiece.

Side Dishes

This cake is plenty rich all on its own, but a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a glass of cold milk, or even a small cup of espresso makes a stellar pairing. If you’re going all out, offer a light berry salad or a platter of fresh summer fruits alongside for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Play up the “mile-high” drama by serving each slice tall and proud on a cake stand. For parties, consider mini versions in mason jars or individual cake rings. You can even make a deconstructed trifle layered in clear glasses for a playful, modern take on the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe—fancy yet fuss-free!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cake this grand deserves to last! Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream and cherries keep the cake delightfully moist for up to three days, so you can sneak a midnight treat or a celebratory breakfast.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze slices for later, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil. For best quality, freeze without the whipped cream and chocolate glaze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and finish with fresh toppings before serving for that just-made magic.

Reheating

Black Forest cake doesn’t need traditional reheating, but if your kitchen is chilly, let chilled slices sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This softens the cake just enough and brings out all those beautiful flavors in the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use jarred cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

You can! Just drain them well and reduce the added sugar slightly, since jarred cherries are often packed in syrup. Taste your filling as you go to strike the right balance.

Is there a substitute for Kirsch if I want a non-alcoholic version?

Absolutely—a touch of cherry juice, water with a splash of almond extract, or even a cherry-flavored syrup will deliver a deliciously similar effect without the booze.

Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Yes, the cake layers can be baked, cooled, wrapped tightly, and refrigerated for up to two days before assembling. You can also freeze the layers up to a month ahead; just thaw thoroughly before slicing and building your Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe.

Why is my whipped cream not stiff enough?

The secret is starting cold: use chilled beaters and a cold bowl. If it’s still too soft, sprinkle in a spoonful more confectioners’ sugar and keep whipping—you want sturdy but not grainy peaks.

Do I have to slice the cake layers in half?

For true “mile-high” drama, slicing is recommended, but you can make a slightly shorter version by leaving them whole—just layer as usual. It’ll still be delicious and stunning!

Final Thoughts

Baking the Mile-High Black Forest Cake Recipe is honestly as fun as eating it—especially when you get to share those generous, chocolate-cherry layers with people you love. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill up with the irresistible scents of chocolate and celebration. I can’t wait for you to taste that first sky-high forkful!

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