This is a fun twist of Black Forest Cake that uses brownies for cake layers! Rich dark chocolate brownies, cherry compote, and fluffy whipped cream layered together and stacked high. It can be made either with or without alcohol, and is a great cake for any special occasion!
This Is A Unique Twist on Black Forest Cake
This recipe was a brainchild of me really wanting to make a brownie cake and also me getting unnecessarily excited about the first cherries of the season at the store. I feel like black forest cake is one of those love it or hate it type of foods. I’ve never really liked the store-bought version–the cake was always dry and the neon red cherries were just a little off-putting.
That’s nothing to worry about with this cake though! Instead of cake, the foundation of this cake is made up of dark chocolate fudge brownie layers. The recipe for this was based on my favorite tried and true brownie recipe! Super rich, fudgey, and chewy. There’s a block of dark chocolate in there to make the flavor extra rich.
I also use fresh cherries to make a compote instead of jarred or canned cherries. This way, you really get authentic flavor! You can make this black forest cake without alcohol, or with alcohol–totally up to you!
While this is by no means a traditional black forest cake, it’s inspired by such and still brings forth the dark flavors of chocolate and cherry that go so well together!
Ingredients & Equipment Needed
To prepare this brownie black forest cake, you will need:
- Three 6″ round cake pans, or two 8″ round cake pans, depending on how many layers you want.
- A stand mixer and hand mixer for the brownies and whipped cream
- A nonstick skillet to make the cherry compote
Ingredients for Brownie Cake
- A box of your favorite brownie mix: or use homemade brownie batter, but I think that sometimes it’s totally fine to take the shortcut route. 🙂
- Ingredients needed to prepare boxed mix: usually eggs, water, and oil, but refer to the box!
Ingredients for Cherry Compote
- 1 lb of fresh cherries, pitted and sliced in half
- Granulated sugar
- Cherry liquor such as Kirsch or water: you can make this cake without alcohol or with
Ingredients for Whipped Cream
- Heavy whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
Tips for Making The Cake
Choose a High Quality Brownie Mix
I personally really love the Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix for rich and fudgy brownie cake layers. While I’ve never had a bad brownie mix before, make sure you pick one that you know you love.
Let the Brownie Cake and Cherry Compote Cool Before Assembling
To maintain the integrity of the cake and prevent the whipped cream from melting, wait until the brownie layers and cherries are completely cool before putting the cake together. You can even prepare all of the components of the recipe ahead of time, and then store them in the fridge overnight.
Assembling The Cake
To assemble the cake you will need your three brownie cake layers, cherry compote filling, and whipped cream.
Start by placing one layer down onto a cake stand or cake board. Spread a third of the whipped cream followed by half of the cherries on top.
Add the next brownie layer, then repeat the same order of whipped cream and cherries.
Lastly, add the third and final brownie round and top the cake off with the remaining whipped cream. I also like to garnish with fresh cherries and some finely chopped dark chocolate. A little extra chocolate never hurt anybody. 😉
Can I Prepare This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Make the brownie layers and cherry compote the day or two before you need the cake and store them tightly wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble the cake, just make the whipped cream and put it together!
How To Store Leftovers
Tightly wrap and store leftover black forest cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it truly is enjoyed best within the first two days.
Did You Make This Recipe?
If so, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to leave a comment or rating to share your thoughts and help others on the internet find this recipe.
Or, take picture and share it with me on Instagram @toppedwithhoney. Looking forward to seeing your stunning brownie black forest cake!
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Equipment
- Three 6" round cake pans
- Stand Mixer
- nonstick skillet
Ingredients
Brownie Cake
- 1 18oz box of brownie mix
- Ingredients needed to prepare brownie mix, refer to the box
Cherry Compote
- 1 lb fresh cherries, pitted and sliced in half
- 2-3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1-2 tbsp cherry liquor (such as Kirsch) or water
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, very cold
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Brownie Cake Layers
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box and preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Grease three 6" round cake pans and line with parchment if desired.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. Use a measuring cup to help portion it out evenly. Bake for 24-28 minutes, or until the brownies are set. Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
Cherry Compote
- While your brownies are baking, make the cherry compote. Add the cherries, sugar, and whichever liquid you are using into a nonstick pan.
- Cook the cherries over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until they are broken down and the liquid has started to thicken.
- Transfer the cherries into a bowl and let them cool down completely. The compote will continue to thicken as it cools.
Whipped Cream & Assembly
- Once the brownie cake layers and cherries are completely cooled, it's time to assemble the cake.
- Freeze the whisk attachment for your mixer for 5 minutes to get it extra cold. Then, add the whipping cream into the bowl of your mixer and start beating on high speed.
- Add in the powdered sugar, a little bit at a time, and continue beating on high speed until you have stiff peaks.
- To assemble the cake, place one brownie layer onto a cake board or plate. Spread ⅓ of the whipped cream on top, followed by ½ of the cherry compote. Place another brownie layer on top and repeat. Lastly, place the last layer over that, spread the remaining whipped cream over it. Garnish with fresh cherries and chopped chocolate. Enjoy!
Hi! What size can pans do I use for this recipe? You didn’t mention it lol
Hi Zoe! I used 6″ round cake pans for this recipe. I made sure to add a note in there about this too–thanks for calling it out haha. 🙂