White Forest Cake

White Forest Cake is a delicate twist on the classic Black Forest Cake, swapping dark chocolate for white chocolate and offering a lighter, more elegant dessert. This cake features layers of moist white cake, sweet-tart cherries, and luscious whipped cream, often finished with white chocolate shavings for a beautiful, snowy appearance. It’s perfect for celebrations, weddings, or anytime you want a sophisticated and delicious treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

white cake flourgranulated sugarunsalted butteregg whitesbaking powdermilkvanilla extractmaraschino cherries or cherry pie fillingheavy whipping creamsugarwhite chocolate (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg whites one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Mix in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.

Whip the heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream, then top with cherries.

Repeat with the second layer, adding whipped cream and cherries.

Add the final cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining whipped cream.

Garnish with white chocolate shavings and extra cherries on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 slices.Preparation time: 25 minutesBaking time: 25 minutesCooling and assembling time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of cherry liqueur or kirsch to the cherries for an adult version.

Use fresh cherries when in season for a more natural flavor.

Add a layer of cherry jam for extra fruitiness.

Incorporate white chocolate chips into the cake batter for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store White Forest Cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months.Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Not recommended for reheating.

FAQs

What is the difference between White Forest and Black Forest Cake?

White Forest Cake uses white chocolate and a white cake base, while Black Forest features dark chocolate and chocolate sponge cake.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?

Yes, but fresh whipped cream gives the best flavor and texture.

Do I need to use three cake layers?

You can use two or even one thicker layer if preferred, adjusting the filling accordingly.

Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, canned cherries or cherry pie filling work well in this recipe.

How do I make white chocolate shavings?

Use a vegetable peeler on a bar of white chocolate to create delicate curls.

Is this cake very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness, with the whipped cream offsetting the sugary cherries and cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble the cake the day of serving.

Is White Forest Cake gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend if desired.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and a stabilized non-dairy whipped topping.

What type of white chocolate should I use?

Use high-quality white chocolate bars for the best flavor and visual appeal.

Conclusion

White Forest Cake is a stunning dessert that brings elegance and a delightful contrast of flavors to your table. With its light cake, sweet cherries, and airy whipped cream, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat at home. Give it a try—you may find it becomes a new favorite.

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