Print

Mary Berry Black Forest Gateau Recipe

Mary Berry Black Forest Gateau
Print Recipe
Print Recipe

Mary Berry’s Black Forest Gateau is a traditional layered chocolate cake filled with cherries and whipped cream. It is inspired by the classic German Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte but simplified for home bakers. The sponge is airy, the cherries add moisture, and the cream brings a soft, cloud-like finish that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge:

  • 175g plain flour

  • 25g cocoa powder

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

  • 150g caster sugar

  • 2 eggs

  • 150ml milk

  • 150ml sunflower oil

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 150ml boiling water

For the Filling and Decoration:

  • 300ml double cream, whipped

  • 300g tinned or jarred cherries, drained

  • 4 tbsp cherry syrup or kirsch (optional)

  • Chocolate shavings for decoration

  • Icing sugar for dusting

Instructions

  • Prepare the tins: Grease and line cake tins to prevent sticking.

  • Mix the dry ingredients: Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, bicarbonate, and sugar.

  • Add wet ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

  • Add boiling water: Pour slowly into the mixture to create a runny batter.

  • Bake the sponge: Divide batter between tins and bake until risen and springy.

  • Cool completely: Allow cakes to cool on a rack before filling.

  • Level the cakes: Trim the tops if needed to ensure even stacking.

  • Prepare the cherries: Drain thoroughly and reserve syrup for brushing.

  • Whip the cream: Beat until soft peaks form, keeping it light and airy.

  • Assemble the layers: Place the first sponge layer on a plate, brush with cherry syrup, then spread cream and scatter cherries.

  • Add the second layer: Repeat with cream and cherries.

  • Decorate: Cover the top with cream, add chocolate shavings, and place extra cherries for garnish.

  • Chill before serving: Refrigerate the gateau to help it set beautifully.

Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-black-forest-gatea0u/