Light Black Forest Cake definitely takes a little time, a little extra work, and a lot of dirty dishes – but it is really, really worth it. A few family members stated that it was more moist and flavorful than the black forest cakes they get from their bakeries!! Now that’s quite a compliment! And THIS version has 1/3 the calories of the black forest cakes from the bakery – so keep in mind that even though it takes a little more work – it is well worth the reward!!
Light Black Forest Cake
Equipment
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 small bowl
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons confectioners sugar
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup ice-cold evaporated skim milk
Instructions
- Place the water in a small saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin on top. Let this sit for 5 minutes to “soften”, then set the saucepan over very low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the gelatin fully dissolves (about 5 minutes). Set saucepan aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream at high speed with an electric mixer until it holds soft peaks. Add the confectioners sugar 1 teaspoon at a time, then add the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it holds very stiff peaks. Set aside.
- In another small bowl, combine the ice cold evaporated skim milk and lemon juice. Beat with the electric mixer (clean the beaters first!) at high speed until very stiff, then beat in the gelatinwater mixture.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped cream mixture into this mixture. Use as stated above in assembling the cake.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
Mastering the art of creating a perfect Light Black Forest Cake requires a combination of skill and attention to detail. In this section, we will share valuable cooking tips and tricks to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time. We will also shed light on common mistakes to avoid, empowering you to become a true dessert maestro.
- Achieving Moisture: To ensure a moist and tender cake, consider brushing the cake layers with a simple syrup infused with cherry liqueur. This subtle addition will enhance the flavors while keeping the cake irresistibly moist.
- Whipped Cream Perfection: When making the whipped cream, ensure that the heavy cream is well-chilled. Place the mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes prior to whipping. Whip the cream just until soft peaks form to avoid overmixing and ending up with butter.
- Chocolate Shavings: Create elegant chocolate shavings for garnishing by using a vegetable peeler. Gently drag the peeler along the edge of a chocolate bar, allowing the shavings to fall onto a plate. Sprinkle these delicate curls over the cake for a visually striking presentation.
- Even Cake Layers: Achieve level and evenly baked cake layers by using cake strips or moistened, folded kitchen towels wrapped around the cake pans. This helps distribute heat evenly, resulting in a uniform rise and a flat top.
- Cooling and Assembling: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling the cake. Chilled layers are easier to handle and less likely to crumble. For a neater presentation, trim the tops of the cake layers to create an even surface before layering with whipped cream and cherries.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have mastered the art of creating a Light Black Forest Cake, it’s time to explore the best ways to serve and enjoy this delectable dessert. In this section, we will provide specific serving suggestions, recommend complementary sides, garnishes, and beverages, and inspire you with different ways to present this delightful cake.
- Occasions and Audience: The Light Black Forest Cake is a versatile dessert that suits a wide range of occasions. It is perfect for celebratory gatherings, dinner parties, or simply as a sweet treat for family and friends. Its elegant appearance and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Complementary Sides and Garnishes: Serve the Light Black Forest Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. The creamy texture enhances the cake’s flavors and provides a delightful contrast. For added flair, garnish with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair this indulgent dessert with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. The rich flavors of the cake harmonize beautifully with the bitterness of coffee or the creamy smoothness of milk.
- Alternative Presentations: For individual servings, create mini versions of the Light Black Forest Cake by assembling the cake in individual dessert glasses or jars. This allows for portion control and adds an elegant touch to individual presentations.
- Seasonal Variations: Embrace the versatility of the Light Black Forest Cake by incorporating seasonal fruits. During the summer, consider adding a layer of fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a vibrant burst of flavor.
FAQs about Light Black Forest Cake
Introduction: As you embark on your Light Black Forest Cake baking journey, it’s natural to have questions. In this section, we address some frequently asked questions to provide clarity and ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
Can I make the cake layers in advance?
Absolutely! To save time, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. This allows for easier assembly when you’re ready to create the cake.
How should I store leftover Light Black Forest Cake?
If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, note that the whipped cream may lose some of its volume and texture over time.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for this recipe. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the cake. Frozen cherries may be slightly softer, but their flavor remains delicious.
Can I substitute the chocolate cake with a different flavor?
While the traditional Black Forest Cake uses chocolate cake, you can experiment with different flavors if desired. A moist vanilla or even a rich chocolate-hazelnut cake can provide interesting variations to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Certainly! To make the Light Black Forest Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as baking powder and cocoa powder, are also gluten-free. Follow the recipe instructions asdirected, making necessary adjustments for the gluten-free flour blend.
Explore the world of a lighter, more indulgent Black Forest Cake with our expertly crafted recipe. We have shared cooking tips, serving suggestions, and answered FAQs to ensure your baking success. Join our community of food enthusiasts by sharing this recipe and subscribing to our blog for a constant stream of culinary inspiration.