A delightful twist on the classic Black Forest Cake, this recipe combines rich chocolate layers with a luscious cherry filling and a light whipped cream frosting.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Lining the pans ensures easy removal of the cake layers.
In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Sifting helps to aerate the dry ingredients, resulting in a lighter cake.
In another bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
Ensure the shortening and sugar are well creamed for a smooth batter.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until smooth.
Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling the cakes completely prevents the frosting from melting.
Pit the cherries, reserving 10 whole for decoration. Soak the pitted cherries in kirsch for at least 1 hour.
Soaking the cherries enhances their flavor and adds moisture to the cake.
Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the icing sugar, dry milk, and vanilla.
Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better results.
Place one cake layer on a cake stand. Spread a portion of the whipped cream frosting, then layer with soaked cherries.
Use a piping bag for a neat frosting application.
Repeat with the second layer, then top with the final cake layer. Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
Smooth the frosting with a spatula for a professional finish.
Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings and the reserved whole cherries. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
