: Classic Black Forest Cake with Cherry Filling & Whipped Cream

👩‍🍳 Preparation

🔥 1. Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cherry juice, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5–8 minutes).
3. Stir in the Kirsch (if using). Set aside to cool completely before assembling.

🍫 2. Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C / 350°F.
2. Grease three 20 cm (8-inch) round cake tins and line the bases with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and lump-free.
5. Add hot coffee or water and mix until the batter is glossy and runny.
6. Divide the batter evenly into the three pans.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto racks to cool completely.
   

   🍦 3. Prepare the Whipped Cream