If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, chocolatey, and beautifully layered but don’t want to spend hours baking, this quick Black Forest cake is the perfect solution. With a few smart shortcuts, you can create a stunning dessert in 20 minutes or less!
⭐ Ingredients (Quick Version)
For the cake (choose one quick option):
1 store-bought chocolate sponge cake OR
1 boxed chocolate cake mix (baked and cooled earlier)
For the filling:
1 can (about 400–425g) cherry pie filling OR pitted cherries in syrup
2 tbsp cherry syrup (optional but adds great flavor)
2 tbsp sugar (if using unsweetened cherries)
For the cream layer:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For decoration:
Chocolate shavings
Extra cherries on top
🍰 Quick Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the whipped cream
Whip together:
Heavy cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla
Beat until stiff peaks form.
This takes 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.
2️⃣ Prep the cherries
If using canned cherry pie filling → ready to go!
If using cherries in syrup:
Drain slightly
Mix with 2 tbsp syrup + sugar
3️⃣ Assemble the cake
If using 1 whole sponge cake:
Slice it into two layers.
Layer 1:
Spread whipped cream
Spoon cherries evenly
Add a drizzle of cherry syrup for flavor
Layer 2:
Place top cake layer
Cover with whipped cream
Add cherries
Finish with chocolate shavings
Assembly takes 5–7 minutes!
🍫 Tips to Make It Perfect (Fast!)
✔ Use cold heavy cream — it whips faster
✔ Freeze the bowl for 5 minutes before whipping
✔ Add a splash of Kirsch (cherry brandy) for authentic flavor (optional)
✔ Use a vegetable peeler to make chocolate shavings instantly
✔ Refrigerate for 10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices
🎉 Why This Recipe Works
No baking required if using store-bought cake
Fresh, light whipped cream tastes better than canned
Cherry filling makes the flavor pop
Classic Black Forest taste without the long prep
🍰 Enjoy Your Quick Black Forest Cake!
This Homemade Black Forest cake recipe in minutes gives you all the flavor you love—rich chocolate, sweet cherries, creamy frosting—without spending hours in the kitchen.