A decadent and indulgent dessert with layers of chocolate cake, sweetened cherries, whipped cream, and a dusting of chocolate shavings. This quick version makes it easy to enjoy the classic flavors of a Black Forest Cake without all the time-consuming steps.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box chocolate cake mix (or your favorite chocolate cake recipe)
Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Filling:
1 can (14 oz) sweetened cherries (cherry pie filling or jarred maraschino cherries)
1 tablespoon cherry juice (from the can)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Whipped Cream:
2 cups heavy cream (cold)
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
Whole cherries (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box (usually 350°F or 175°C).
Prepare the chocolate cake according to the box instructions, typically by mixing the cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water.
Pour the cake batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch round pans for a layered cake.
Bake according to the instructions (typically 25-30 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Prepare the Whipped Cream:
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Once the cake has completely cooled, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers (if using a 9-inch round cake).
Place the bottom layer of the cake on a serving platter.
Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the cake.
Spoon a layer of cherry pie filling or maraschino cherries with a bit of cherry juice over the whipped cream.
Place the second layer of cake on top and gently press down.
