Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of Germany’s iconic Black Forest Gateau, reimagined with creative twists and variations. From classic recipes to innovative fusion creations, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering Black Forest Gateau recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of Black Forest Gateau, where traditional ingredients like cherries, chocolate, and whipped cream meet modern twists and creative interpretations. Whether you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, or simply unique dessert options, we’ve got you covered with recipes that range from elegant and sophisticated to playful and whimsical.
So sit back, get ready to satisfy your cravings, and join us on this culinary adventure as we explore the world of Black Forest Gateau in all its decadent glory!
Classic Black Forest Gateau with Kirsch Cream
This rich and decadent cake is a classic German dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, cherries, and Kirsch liqueur. The moist chocolate cake is layered with whipped cream infused with the sweet and tart taste of cherry preserves and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons Kirsch liqueur
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and melted chocolate in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
7. Whip heavy cream with Kirsch liqueur until stiff peaks form.
8. Assemble cake by spreading whipped cream on top of one layer, then topping with cherry preserves and finishing with the second cake layer.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including baking time)
Vegan Black Forest Gateau with Coconut Whipped Cream
This decadent dessert is a vegan twist on the classic German cake, featuring rich chocolate layers, sweet cherry filling, and creamy coconut whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 8 ounces vegan chocolate chips, melted
– 1 cup cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Coconut whipped cream (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add sugar, non-dairy milk, oil, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in melted chocolate; whisk until combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans; bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with cherry filling and coconut whipped cream.
Coconut Whipped Cream:
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk, chilled
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk all ingredients together until stiff peaks form; use immediately.
Gluten-Free Black Forest Gateau with Almond Flour
This classic German dessert gets a gluten-free makeover using almond flour, resulting in a dense and velvety cake infused with the deep flavors of cherries and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup (30g) melted unsalted butter, cooled
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120g) pitted cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add almond milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
4. Fold in chopped cherries and chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before assembling and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Mini Black Forest Gateau Cupcakes
These bite-sized treats are a delightful twist on the classic German dessert. Rich chocolate cake, sweet whipped cream, and tart cherry filling come together in a mini cupcake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream and cherry filling, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and cherry filling.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Cheesecake Fusion
Experience the perfect blend of classic German Black Forest cake and creamy cheesecake in this unique fusion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Chocolate shavings or chopped cherries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
6. Allow to cool completely before topping with cherry preserves and whipped cream.
7. Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped cherries.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Trifle with Layers of Chocolate and Cherries
This decadent trifle is a creative twist on the classic Black Forest Gateau, featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, whipped cream, and succulent cherries. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping dessert for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 package chocolate cake mix (about 2 cups)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup Kirschwasser or cherry liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Cut the cooled cake into 1-inch cubes.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering the cake, whipped cream, and chopped cherries in a large bowl or individual serving dishes.
5. If using Kirschwasser or cherry liqueur, drizzle it over the top layer of whipped cream.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (for cake only)
Black Forest Gateau Ice Cream Cake
Rich and decadent, this Black Forest Gateau Ice Cream Cake is a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions. Layers of creamy ice cream, chocolate cake, and cherry compote come together to create a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts black forest gateau ice cream
– 12-16 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos), crushed
– 1 cup cherry compote
– 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cherries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into a large bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften.
2. In a small bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the softened ice cream until well combined.
3. Cut the chocolate sandwich cookies in half and layer them with the cherry compote and whipped ice cream mixture in a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped ice cream on top.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh cherries and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an assembled dessert.
Black Forest Gateau Mousse with Dark Chocolate Shavings
This rich and decadent mousse combines the flavors of traditional Black Forest cake with a light and airy texture, topped with dark chocolate shavings for an added layer of sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cherry jam or preserves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Fresh cherries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, cherry jam, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold the softened mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Allow melted chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the cream mixture until fully incorporated.
6. Spoon mousse into individual serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cherries and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including melting chocolate)
Black Forest Gateau Roll with Swiss Buttercream
This decadent dessert combines the classic flavors of black forest cake with a silky smooth Swiss buttercream, all wrapped up in a elegant roll. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) cake flour
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Swiss buttercream ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and milk. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth. Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler or microwave; let cool slightly. Whisk into the cake batter until well combined.
3. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Roll cake tightly, using confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking.
5. Make Swiss buttercream by whipping heavy cream and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Brownies with Cherry Compote
Experience the classic German dessert in a new form – rich, fudgy brownies infused with the deep flavors of black forest gateau, served with a sweet and tangy cherry compote.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 1 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cherry Compote:
– 1 cup (200g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cherry jam or preserves
– 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. While brownies cool, combine cherries, sugar, jam, and liqueur (if using) in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until cherries are tender.
6. Serve warm brownies with cherry compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Pancakes with Chocolate Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Germany’s famous Black Forest cake in a fluffy pancake form, topped with a decadent chocolate sauce. This recipe combines the best of both worlds for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and chopped cherries for garnish (optional)
– Chocolate Sauce:
+ 1 cup heavy cream
+ 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook another minute.
5. To make chocolate sauce, combine heavy cream and dark chocolate chips in a bowl. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Serve pancakes with warm chocolate sauce and garnish with whipped cream and chopped cherries (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Tart with a Shortcrust Pastry Base
This Black Forest Gateau Tart is a decadent dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. A buttery shortcrust pastry base provides a perfect foundation for the rich chocolate ganache and sweet cherry compote.
Ingredients:
For the Shortcrust Pastry Base:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
For the Black Forest Gateau Filling:
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sweet cherry compote (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a tart pan with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the shortcrust pastry base and press into the prepared tart pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in heavy cream to form a smooth ganache.
4. Spread the ganache over the cooled tart crust. Top with cherry compote and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Parfait with Whipped Cream Layers
Experience the rich flavors of Germany’s famous Black Forest Gateau in a creative and refreshing parfait form, featuring layers of whipped cream and chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup black forest cake cubes (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy whipped cream
– 1 cup chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
– Fresh raspberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined.
3. Cut the black forest cake into small cubes.
4. Start building the parfait by spreading a layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
5. Add a layer of cake cubes, followed by a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or chocolate chips.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Garnish with fresh raspberries and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required!
Black Forest Gateau Crepes with Fresh Cherries
Celebrate the flavors of Germany with these delicate crepes filled with whipped cream, cherry compote, and shaved chocolate. A sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh cherries, pitted (about 1 cup)
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
– Shaved dark chocolate (about 1 ounce)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add eggs, milk, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat; pour in batter to form a thin crepe.
4. Cook for 30 seconds, flip, and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Fill cooled crepes with whipped cream, cherry compote (simmer pitted cherries with sugar and water), and shaved chocolate.
6. Roll up and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for the crepes)
Black Forest Gateau Eclairs with Chocolate Ganache
Discover the perfect fusion of German heritage and French patisserie with these decadent Black Forest Gateau eclairs smothered in rich chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Chocolate ganache (recipe below)
Eclair Dough:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour dough into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
5. Pipe into long, thin strips onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Chocolate Ganache:
1. Melt 1 cup dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
2. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Allow ganache to cool slightly before using.
Black Forest Gateau Donuts with Cherry Jelly Filling
Experience the flavors of Germany’s iconic Black Forest Gateau in a delicious donut form, filled with sweet and tangy cherry jelly.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cherry jelly filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and salt; mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Pipe donuts onto the hot oil using a piping bag or a spoon.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Allow donuts to cool before filling with cherry jelly.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Pavlova with Chocolate Drizzle
A decadent dessert that combines the classic German Black Forest cake with the Australian pavlova, topped with a rich chocolate drizzle. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1 cup chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until combined.
4. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
6. Allow meringue to cool completely.
7. Assemble by topping cooled meringue with whipped cream, mixed berries, and chocolate shavings.
8. Drizzle with melted butter and additional chocolate, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Black Forest Gateau Smoothie Bowl with Cocoa Nibs
Rich and indulgent, this smoothie bowl is a twist on the classic German dessert. Layers of chocolatey goodness, whipped cream, and crunchy cocoa nibs come together in a healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons cocoa nibs
– Whipped cream and additional berries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Blend banana, mixed berries, cocoa powder, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt and honey until combined.
3. Add chopped dark chocolate chips to the yogurt mixture and stir until melted.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl, followed by the chocolate-yogurt layer.
5. Top with cocoa nibs and whipped cream (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (blending only)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Germany’s beloved Black Forest Gateau! This classic dessert has been reimagined with a twist in 18 decadent recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic Kirsch cream to vegan coconut whipped cream and gluten-free almond flour, there’s something for every palate. Try mini cupcakes, cheesecake fusion, trifle layers, ice cream cake, or even brownies with cherry compote. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a fan of fruit-infused treats, these creative takes on the Black Forest Gateau will delight.
