Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau Recipe

If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that brings together indulgent chocolate, luscious cream, and sweet cherries, Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a must-try. This iconic cake offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, and with Jamie’s signature twist, it’s bound to impress both your taste buds and your guests!

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a modern take on the traditional German dessert, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. Known for its decadent layers of rich chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and maraschino or fresh cherries, Jamie’s version brings together simple ingredients for a luxurious treat.

What sets his recipe apart is its balance between indulgence and lightness. The cake’s dark chocolate sponge is moist and fluffy, perfectly paired with the creamy, airy filling, and complemented by tangy cherries that cut through the sweetness. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both comforting and celebratory, making it perfect for any occasion from birthdays to a special Sunday treat.

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Chocolate Sponge

• 225g of plain flour
• 225g of caster sugar
• 225g of unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs
• 60g of cocoa powder (preferably unsweetened)
• 2 tsp of baking powder
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1 pinch of salt
• 120ml of milk

For The Filling And Decoration

• 300ml of double cream (whipped)
• 2 tablespoons of icing sugar (for sweetening the whipped cream)
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract (to flavor the cream)
• 300g of fresh cherries (pitted) or jarred maraschino cherries (drained)
• A splash of kirsch (cherry schnapps) or fruit juice (optional for soaking the cake)
• Dark chocolate shavings or curls (for decoration)
• A few whole cherries (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

• A 20-23 cm round cake tin
• A large mixing bowl
• Electric hand whisk or stand mixer (for whipping the cream)
• Sifter (for sifting the dry ingredients)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• A sharp knife for slicing the cake
• A serving platter or cake stand
• Grater or vegetable peeler (for the chocolate shavings)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease and line your cake tin with baking paper.

Step 2: Make the chocolate sponge

In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder into the bowl, adding a pinch of salt. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients with a spatula, followed by the milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Bake the sponge

Pour the batter into your prepared cake tin, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the whipped cream

While the cake is cooling, whip the double cream with the icing sugar and vanilla extract until it forms soft peaks.

Step 5: Slice the cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully slice it horizontally into two or three even layers, depending on the height of your cake. You can trim the top of the cake to make it level if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the cake

Place the first layer of cake onto your serving platter. Lightly drizzle some kirsch or cherry juice on top (if using).

Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the sponge, and scatter half of the cherries on top. Repeat the process with the next layer of cake, whipped cream, and cherries.

If you have a third layer, repeat once more. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream on top, then decorate with chocolate shavings and a few whole cherries.

Step 7: Chill and serve

Let the cake chill for about 30 minutes to set, and then serve!

Each slice should show off the layers of chocolate sponge, creamy filling, and fruit. The contrast between the rich chocolate and light cream is just heavenly.

Expert Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients: It’s important that your butter, eggs, and cream are at room temperature. This helps them mix more evenly, giving you a better texture in your sponge and whipped cream.
• Chill the cake before serving: After you’ve assembled the cake, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the cream to set properly. This will make slicing easier and prevent the cream from spilling out when you cut into it.
• Quality chocolate matters: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate for the best taste. The richness of the chocolate sponge will shine through when paired with quality ingredients.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar slightly in the whipped cream or opt for a less sweetened cherry topping.

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who loves the perfect combination of rich chocolate, fluffy cream, and tart cherries. The recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and the best part is that you can adapt it based on what you have on hand.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood for something sweet, this cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients and start baking – it’s time to treat yourself to a slice of heaven!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a decadent dessert with layers of chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and luscious cherries. While the classic version is unbeatable, there are numerous ways to play around with the ingredients and technique to create different twists. Here are a few easy recipe variations to make this indulgent cake your own:

1. Dark Chocolate Black Forest Gateau

   • Swap the chocolate sponge: Use a rich dark chocolate sponge for a more intense flavor profile. Dark chocolate not only enhances the cake’s depth but also balances the sweetness of the cherries and whipped cream.
   • Cherries in chocolate syrup: Instead of the traditional kirsch, you could soak your cherries in a dark chocolate syrup for extra richness and depth.

2. Vegan Black Forest Gateau

   • Vegan sponge: Replace eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) or flax seeds. Swap dairy milk for almond milk, and use a non-dairy butter alternative to create a soft and moist sponge.
   • Vegan whipped cream: Use coconut cream or a cashew-based whipped cream alternative. Both provide the smooth, creamy texture without the dairy.

3. Mini Black Forest Gateau

   • Individual servings: Rather than a large layered cake, make mini Black Forest Gateaux. You can use muffin tins or small cake pans to bake individual cakes, which can be served as single portions. This makes the dessert easy to share and present at parties.
   • Assembly: Layer these mini cakes with whipped cream and cherries in between, just like the larger version, and decorate them with chocolate shavings for a cute, bite-sized twist.

4. Boozy Black Forest Gateau

   • Kirsch-infused whipped cream: If you’re looking for an extra kick, infuse your whipped cream with some Kirsch (a traditional cherry schnapps) or even a splash of rum or brandy for added depth and flavor. This will create a sophisticated take on the classic recipe.
   • Drizzle liquor on layers: To add another level of flavor, lightly drizzle Kirsch or your choice of liquor over the chocolate sponge before assembling.

5. Berry Fusion Black Forest Gateau

   • Mixed berries: Instead of using just cherries, consider a mix of fresh berries like raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. This adds complexity to the flavor and a vibrant color contrast to the whipped cream and chocolate layers.
   • Berry compote: Make a berry compote with sugar, lemon juice, and mixed berries to fill between the layers instead of whole cherries, offering a tangy and fresh component.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of your delicious Black Forest Gateau requires careful attention to preserve its flavor and texture. Here’s how you can ensure the cake stays fresh for a few days:

1. Refrigerate promptly: As Black Forest Gateau contains whipped cream and fresh fruit, it should always be stored in the fridge to prevent spoilage. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerating helps keep the cake cool and prevents the cream from wilting.
2. Avoid storing for too long: Due to the perishable nature of the cream and fruit, it is best to consume the leftover cake within 2 to 3 days. The whipped cream may lose its structure and texture after a longer period.
3. Prevent sogginess: If you’re worried about the sponge becoming soggy from the moisture in the fruit and cream, it’s a good idea to store the cake in layers. You can wrap the individual layers of the cake separately and only assemble it when you’re ready to serve again.
4. Freeze for longer storage: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Slice the cake into individual portions, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. When you want to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the fridge overnight and allow the whipped cream to regain its smoothness.
5. Rewhip cream before serving: If the cream begins to lose its fluffiness after being stored, give it a quick rewhip with a little sugar and vanilla extract to bring back its texture before serving. This helps maintain the cake’s indulgent, airy quality.

What Goes Well With Black Forest Gateau?

Black Forest Gateau is a rich and indulgent dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments. Here are a few options to elevate your dining experience:

1. Coffee: A strong cup of coffee, whether black or a cappuccino, provides the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cake. The bitterness of the coffee balances the cream and chocolate while complementing the cherries.
2. Red Wine: A light red wine such as Pinot Noir or a fruity Merlot pairs well with the rich chocolate and the tartness of the cherries. The wine’s subtle flavors can enhance the fruity and cocoa notes in the cake.
3. Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, offering a cold, creamy contrast to the rich, moist layers of the gateau. Alternatively, a tangy cherry sorbet could be a refreshing and vibrant option to complement the cherries in the cake.
4. Fresh Berries: Adding a side of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, can introduce a new layer of texture and a slight tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. They add freshness and color, elevating the dessert visually as well.
5. Liqueurs: For an adult twist, serve the cake with a splash of dessert liqueur, such as Chambord (black raspberry liqueur) or Amaretto. The nutty or berry-infused flavors pair beautifully with the chocolate and cream.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a timeless dessert that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re opting for a vegan version, adding extra booze for an indulgent kick, or trying out a mini version for easy serving, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this decadent treat.

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can savor this cake for a few days, and pairing it with the right beverages, such as coffee or wine, enhances the experience further. So, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, the Black Forest Gateau will never disappoint!.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is a rich and indulgent dessert made with layers of light chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and a filling of sweetened cherries soaked in kirsch. It is topped with more whipped cream and chocolate shavings, making it a decadent treat perfect for special occasions.

What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

The main ingredients include chocolate sponge cake, heavy cream, fresh or jarred cherries, kirsch (a type of cherry brandy), sugar, dark chocolate, and vanilla extract.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

The preparation time for Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau is about 30 minutes, and the baking time for the sponge cake is around 25 minutes. Once everything is assembled, it will need some time to chill, so expect the total process to take around 2-3 hours.

Can I Use Store-bought Cake For Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

Yes, you can use store-bought chocolate sponge cake as a shortcut. However, for the best results, homemade cake is recommended for a fresher texture and richer flavor.

Is There A Non-alcoholic Version Of Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

Yes, you can skip the kirsch (cherry brandy) and replace it with cherry juice or a mix of water and a bit of cherry syrup to maintain the flavor without the alcohol.

How Should I Store Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

Store the Black Forest Gateau in the fridge, covered, for up to 2-3 days. It’s best served chilled for the ultimate texture and flavor.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers and cherries ahead of time and assemble the cake a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more intense taste.

What Can I Use As A Substitute For Kirsch In Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

If you prefer not to use kirsch, you can substitute it with cherry juice, grenadine, or another fruit-flavored syrup for a non-alcoholic version. If you’re okay with a bit of alcohol, brandy or rum can work as alternatives.

What Is The Best Type Of Chocolate To Use For Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This will provide a rich, intense chocolate taste that balances the sweetness of the cream and cherries.

Can I Add Other Fruits To Jamie Oliver’s Black Forest Gateau?

While the traditional recipe calls for cherries, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a different twist. However, cherries are classic and provide the authentic flavor of this dessert.