Black Forest Cake with Amarena Cherries – Elegant Chocolate Recipe

The famous Black Forest cake, originally from Germany, is traditionally made with sour cherries, kirsch, chocolate sponge and generous layers of whipped cream. This version offers a refined variation using Amarena cherries, appreciated for their smooth texture and deep, aromatic flavor.

Preserved in a rich syrup, Amarena cherries bring a rounder sweetness and an intense fruity note that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate and cream. They allow you to create an elegant and modern interpretation, perfect for special occasions or festive desserts.

This Amarena Black Forest recipe delivers a balanced combination of rich chocolate, light cream and indulgent fruit, resulting in a generous and visually impressive cake.

To learn more about the tradition and craftsmanship behind candied fruits, discover our guide: Everything about candied fruits.

Ingredients (serves 6–8)

For the chocolate sponge

• 4 eggs
• 120 g sugar
• 90 g all-purpose flour
• 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 pinch of salt

For the filling

• 400 ml heavy cream (30–35% fat), well chilled
• 40 g powdered sugar
• 200–250 g Amarena cherries, drained
• 5–8 cl Amarena syrup
• (Optional) 2–3 cl kirsch

For decoration

• 100–150 g dark chocolate (shavings)
• Whole Amarena cherries

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Gently fold in the sifted flour, cocoa powder and salt.
4. Pour into a 20–22 cm (8–9 inch) pan and bake for 20–25 minutes. Let cool completely.
5. Remove from the pan and slice the sponge into three layers.
6. Whip the cold cream until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar.
7. Brush the first layer with Amarena syrup (and kirsch if desired).
8. Spread whipped cream and distribute Amarena cherries.
9. Repeat with the second layer.
10. Place the final layer on top, cover the entire cake with whipped cream and smooth the sides.
11. Decorate with chocolate shavings and whole cherries.
12. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips for a perfect Black Forest cake

• Since Amarena cherries are already sweet, adjust the amount of syrup to avoid an overly sweet dessert.
• The cake tastes even better the next day, once the sponge has absorbed the flavors.
• Use high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for better balance.

How to use Amarena cherries in desserts

Thanks to their smooth texture and intense flavor, Amarena cherries are ideal for:

• chocolate cakes and layered desserts
• tiramisu and creamy desserts
• ice cream and sundaes
• cheesecakes and dessert cups

Where to find quality Amarena cherries

The quality of the fruit directly affects the final result. Carefully selected cherries ensure a soft texture and a well-balanced flavor.

Discover our candied fruits selection

Frequently asked questions

Is traditional Black Forest cake made with Amarena cherries?

No. The original German recipe uses sour cherries combined with kirsch. Amarena cherries are a modern variation, appreciated for their softer texture and sweeter, more rounded flavor.

Can Amarena cherries replace sour cherries?

Yes. They bring a smoother texture and deeper flavor. Because they are preserved in syrup, it is recommended to slightly reduce the soaking syrup or sugar in the recipe.

How long does homemade Black Forest cake keep?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours in an airtight container or under a cake dome.