Mini Black Forest Cakes
Delightful bite-sized desserts that combine rich chocolate sponge with cherry filling and whipped cream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge
- 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Forms the base of your chocolate sponge.
- 1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens and balances the cocoa.
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Helps the cakes rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda Adds extra lift and softness.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances chocolate flavor.
- 1 large Egg Binds and adds structure.
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk Keeps the cake tender.
- 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil Moisture without heaviness.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract A fragrant foundation.
- 1/2 cup Boiling Water Intensifies the cocoa flavor.
For the Filling and Topping
- 1 cup Cherry Pie Filling Sweet and tangy cherry goodness.
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Light and airy topping.
- 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar Lightly sweetens the cream.
- Optional Fresh Cherries Adds freshness and flair.
- Optional Chocolate Shavings A finishing touch of luxury.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour mini cake pans or muffin tins.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine both mixtures and stir in the boiling water until smooth.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans, filling each cavity two-thirds full.
- Gently tap the pans to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely, then slice each mini cake in half horizontally.
Assembly
- Pipe whipped cream onto the bottom halves of the cakes and spoon cherry filling on top.
- Sandwich with the tops, then decorate with more whipped cream, cherry filling, and optional garnishes.
- Chill to set or serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature ingredients and ensure your pans are properly greased and floured. Variations include adding kirsch to the whipped cream or using different fruit fillings.