What’s inside? Layers of chocolate sponge brushed with kirsch, sandwiched with whipped cream and cherries. On top you get more cream, dark chocolate shavings, and a few whole cherries for drama. Black, white, and red — sharp contrast, looks gorgeous on a plate.
History of Black Forest cake
The first written recipe appeared in 1934, and pastry chef Josef Keller is often credited with creating the original version earlier in the 1900s.
Fun bits:
- In 2021 UNESCO added the craft of making Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte to Baden-Württemberg’s intangible cultural heritage list.
- The biggest one ever baked weighed over 3,000 kg and stretched close to 10 meters — of course it happened in the Black Forest.
- The U.S. even celebrates National Black Forest Cake Day on March 28.
- It’s huge in India and Japan too, usually made without alcohol for birthdays and weddings. In Austria and Switzerland some bakers swap in rum instead of kirsch.
Where to try the Black Forest Cake in Germany
- Café Schäfer, Triberg – Often called the “home” of Black Forest cake. They still bake from a recipe linked to Josef Keller.
- Café König, Baden-Baden – Old-world café (since 1889) with a classic, richly boozy slice in a gorgeous salon setting.
- Titisee-Neustadt & Feldberg – Lakeside cafés and mountain hotels around here serve proud local versions; perfect after a hike.
- Freiburg im Breisgau – Gateway to the Black Forest. Wander the old town and you’ll see the cake on basically every menu — great with a cup of local coffee.
- Café Buchwald, Berlin – Far from the forest but famous for cakes for 160+ years; their Black Forest is a city favorite.
Visiting in spring? Check out the Black Forest Cake Festival in Todtnauberg — pastry chefs go all-in to crown the ultimate slice. Bring friends. And maybe elastic waistbands.
Want to bake a Black Forest cake at home? We’ve got a tried-and-true recipe.
Classic Black Forest Cake Recipe (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte)
Updated: September 27, 2025