Black Forest Tiramisu Recipe

If you adore the rich, layered decadence of classic tiramisu but crave a fruity, chocolatey twist, this Black Forest Tiramisu is an absolute game-changer. Combining luscious dark cherries soaked in kirsch with silky mascarpone cream and tender cocoa-infused chocolate cake layers, this dessert bursts with complex flavors that dance on your palate. Every bite offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet notes that will make you fall head over heels for this spectacular reinterpretation of a beloved classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something truly satisfying about how these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients come together to create the layers and depth of the Black Forest Tiramisu. Each component plays a starring role, from the moist chocolate cake providing structure, to the juicy cherries lending brightness, and the smooth mascarpone cream delivering richness and balance.

• 2 large eggs: They add moisture and help create the tender cake base for the dessert.
• 175 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and adds a lovely golden color when baked.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural flavors with a warm, comforting note.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the flavors.
• 100 grams full fat Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a gentle tang to the cake batter.
• 90 grams neutral oil: Keeps the cake tender and soft without overwhelming the flavor.
• 50 grams milk: Adds extra moisture for a light crumb.
• 150 grams all-purpose flour: Forms the base structure of the cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and be airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to achieve perfect texture.
• 35 grams cocoa powder (plus 20 grams for dusting): Gives that deep chocolate flavor and classic tiramisu appearance.
• 1 kilogram dark sweet cherries (pitted): The soul of the Black Forest twist, packed with juicy flavor.
• 75 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the cherry filling thoughtfully.
• 75 grams kirsch: Adds authentic Black Forest charm and subtle boozy warmth.
• 200 grams tart cherry juice: Used to soak the chocolate layers, infusing each bite with cherry goodness.
• 4 egg yolks: Provide richness and are the base for the luscious mascarpone cream.
• 80 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings aromatic depth to the cream.
• 450 grams mascarpone cheese: The heart of any tiramisu, creamy and dreamy.
• 450 grams heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks for that airy, indulgent texture.

How to Make Black Forest Tiramisu

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet by greasing and optionally lining it with parchment. Combine the eggs, sugar, vanilla, sea salt, Greek yogurt, milk, and oil in a medium bowl—beat these until the batter is silky smooth. Carefully sift in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cocoa powder, then mix everything just until fully incorporated. Spread this rich chocolate batter evenly in your baking pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let your cake cool in the pan briefly before flipping it out with the help of parchment and a cooling rack—this gentle handling keeps it moist and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

While the cake cools, pit your cherries and slice them in halves. Toss them in a pan with sugar and kirsch, then simmer on medium heat until the mixture thickens into a lush, syrupy filling. Stir frequently to keep cherries intact while softening gently into that perfect consistency. Once cooked through, remove from heat and allow the cherries to cool completely so the flavors settle beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Cream Filling

In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, sea salt, and vanilla extract at high speed until the mixture turns pale and thick, giving you a strong and smooth base for your cream. Blend in the mascarpone cheese until velvety, then gradually whip in the cold heavy cream until soft peaks form—this luscious cream will be the indulgent glue that holds your tiramisu layers together.

Step 4: Assemble the Black Forest Tiramisu

Trim your cooled chocolate cake into two even layers that fit snugly into your chosen serving dish. Start by laying down one cake layer and brush it generously with half of the tart cherry juice to soak in all that tangy sweetness. Spoon over half of your sumptuous cherry filling, then dollop half of the mascarpone cream, spreading it into an even blanket of richness. Repeat the process with the second cake layer, soaking it with the remaining juice and layering the cherries and cream on top. If your dish is full, give your remaining cream a quick whip to stiffer peaks and artfully dollop it atop to hold its shape. Smooth the surface carefully, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to marry perfectly.

How to Serve Black Forest Tiramisu

Garnishes

Right before serving, gently remove the plastic wrap and dust the top with a fine layer of cocoa powder for that elegant final touch. You can also scatter a few fresh cherries or small chocolate shavings for extra flair and to hint at the vibrant flavors inside. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also teases the sensory experience to come.

Side Dishes

Black Forest Tiramisu is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with light, refreshing sides works beautifully. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette or a simple cup of black coffee or espresso to balance the creamy sweetness. Fresh fruit like sliced kiwi or berries can add a refreshing burst that complements the dessert’s richness brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

If traditional plating feels a bit too classic, try presenting the Black Forest Tiramisu in individual glass jars or stemmed glasses to showcase its stunning layers. For a festive touch, serve portions on elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of cherry syrup and a sprig of fresh mint. These creative presentations can elevate the experience and make your guests feel truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Black Forest Tiramisu keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy every luscious bite at your own pace. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent any fridge odors from creeping in.

Freezing

While this tiramisu is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving—note that texture may soften slightly, but the flavors will still be pleasing.

Reheating

Reheating Black Forest Tiramisu isn’t typically recommended because it’s meant to be served cold. However, if you prefer it slightly less chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before digging in. This brings out the flavors without compromising its signature creamy texture.

FAQs

What makes Black Forest Tiramisu different from traditional tiramisu?

Unlike the classic coffee-soaked ladyfingers, this Black Forest Tiramisu incorporates chocolate cake layers soaked in tart cherry juice and features a cherry and kirsch filling, giving it a unique fruity and chocolaty profile inspired by the Black Forest cake tradition.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen for the filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries are fantastic in this recipe and bring a bright, natural sweetness. Just make sure to pit and halve them carefully before cooking to achieve the ideal consistency without breaking down the fruit too much.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in the mascarpone cream?

If you’re concerned, you can use pasteurized eggs for safety or find pasteurized mascarpone alternatives. The egg yolks are gently whipped with sugar, which reduces risk, but always prioritize safety based on your circumstance.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend with a 1:1 ratio. You may need to watch the baking closely as gluten-free flours can sometimes alter the texture slightly, but it should still deliver a delicious Black Forest Tiramisu.

How long should I chill the tiramisu before serving?

It’s best to refrigerate the assembled Black Forest Tiramisu at least overnight, ideally 8 to 12 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cream to set perfectly for an ideal sliceable texture.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you experience the irresistible harmony of rich chocolate cake, boozy cherries, and creamy mascarpone in this Black Forest Tiramisu, it’ll become your go-to dessert for special occasions or anytime you want to impress. It’s a fun, heartfelt twist on a classic that’s surprisingly approachable and infinitely rewarding to make and share. Go on, give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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