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Decadent Black Forest Mini Cakes topped with cherries and chocolate sprinkles.

Black Forest Mini Cakes

Deliciously rich mini cakes that combine velvety chocolate, luscious cherry filling, and silky whipped cream, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Adjust quantity if using baking powder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt A pinch of sea salt can enhance flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar You can reduce the quantity for less sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used as a vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure almond extract can also elevate the taste.
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk Mix vinegar with regular milk as a buttermilk substitute.
For the Assembly
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling Fresh or frozen cherries can be used as substitutes.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar Optional if you prefer unsweetened cream.
  • Chocolate shavings for garnish Crushed nuts can also be a delightful topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cake pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Cool the cakes completely before assembling.
Assembly
  1. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  2. Layer the cakes with cherry pie filling and whipped cream.
  3. Garnish with chocolate shavings and serve.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent dense cakes. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.