White Forest Cake Recipe

If you want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a divine dessert, this White Forest Cake is nothing short of magical. Combining a tender, fluffy white cake layered with luscious cherry filling and wrapped in silky white chocolate cream cheese frosting, this cake is a dazzling twist on the classic Black Forest Cake. Every bite bursts with bright cherry flavors balanced by the smooth sweetness of white chocolate and a touch of almond, making the White Forest Cake a showstopper for any occasion or a perfect indulgence for a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the White Forest Cake lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients that come together seamlessly to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays its part, from the light cake layers to the rich frosting and tangy cherry filling.

• 3 1/2 cups Cake flour: Provides a soft, tender crumb perfect for delicate white cakes.
• 2 tsp Baking powder: Helps the cake rise evenly and stay fluffy.
• 1 tsp Baking soda: Adds just the right lift along with the baking powder.
• 1 tsp Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture.
• 1/4 cup Oil (canola or vegetable): Keeps the cake extra moist and tender.
• 1 1/2 cups White granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering it.
• 3/4 cup Sour cream (room temperature): Gives a slight tang and helps keep the cake moist.
• 1 TBSP Pure vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with warm, sweet vanilla aroma.
• 5 Egg whites (room temperature): Provide structure and lightness.
• 1 cup Buttermilk (room temperature): Adds tenderness and subtle tang.
• 1 lb Cherries (fresh or frozen): The star of the filling, adding natural sweetness and tartness.
• 1/2 cup White granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cherry mixture perfectly.
• 1 TBSP Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling to the perfect consistency.
• 1 TBSP Water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and blend the filling smoothly.
• 1/4 tsp Almond extract: Adds a lovely nutty depth that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• 2 cups Unsalted butter (room temperature): For the decadent, creamy frosting.
• 8 oz Cream cheese (room temperature): Brings tanginess and richness to the frosting.
• 8 oz White chocolate bars (2 bars Lindt recommended): Melts into a luscious, sweet frosting base.
• 5 cups Powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens and gives structure to the frosting.
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract: Completes the frosting with a fragrant lift.

How to Make White Forest Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease three 8-inch cake pans with baking spray, line them with parchment paper, and spray again for perfect nonstick layers. Sift together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; this ensures your cake turns out cloud-light and perfectly even.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature butter, oil, and sugar on high speed for two minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step creates the creamy base that helps your cake maintain moisture while providing a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream, Vanilla, and Egg Whites

Mix in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and egg whites on medium speed until just combined. The egg whites add airiness to the batter, while the sour cream lends subtle tanginess and moisture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Add the sifted flour mixture and buttermilk alternately to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, or the cake layers might become dense rather than fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Scrape the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans using a rubber spatula, baking for 22-25 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges start to pull away from the pan.

Step 6: Cool the Cake Layers

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before decorating. Cooling fully is essential to avoid melting the frosting when assembling.

Step 7: Make the Cherry Filling

Place pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and almond extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the cherries soften and juices release, then mash them slightly to create a chunky yet spreadable filling. Continue cooking until thickened, about 10 minutes, then cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the White Chocolate Frosting

Sift powdered sugar into a mixing bowl. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Beat butter in a mixer until pale and fluffy, then add cream cheese and mix well. Gradually blend in the melted white chocolate and powdered sugar, finishing with vanilla extract. Whip until beautifully creamy and spreadable.

Step 9: Assemble the White Forest Cake

Level the cakes with a serrated knife to ensure they stack neatly. Place the first cake layer on your serving board and spread three-quarters of a cup of frosting evenly on top. Pipe a frosting border around the edge and spoon half of the cherry filling inside the border. Repeat for the second layer, then place the third layer upside down for a smooth top. Fill any gaps with frosting, crumb coat the entire cake, and chill briefly to lock crumbs in place. Finally, frost the whole cake thickly, pipe decorative swirls if desired, and top with extra cherries for that signature White Forest Cake look.

How to Serve White Forest Cake

Garnishes

To make your White Forest Cake pop visually and flavorfully, garnish with a handful of fresh whole cherries and delicate white chocolate shavings. You can also sprinkle slivered almonds around the edges to bring out the almond extract’s subtle notes.

Side Dishes

This cake is a dessert all on its own, but pairing it with a simple dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream elevates each bite into a celebration. For a fresh contrast, a vibrant berry salad or a citrusy fruit compote works beautifully alongside the rich and sweet flavors of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Mix up the presentation by slicing the White Forest Cake into individual trifles served in clear glasses layered with extra cherry filling and frosting. Alternatively, create mini versions of this cake in cupcake tins for bite-sized delights perfect for parties or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover White Forest Cake tastes just as divine the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the frosting fresh and the cherry filling perfectly moist.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake fully assembled or just the cake layers. Wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freezing for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling with frosting and filling for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

Because this cake is best served chilled, avoid microwaving. If you’d like a softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enjoy that perfect balance of firmness and softness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for the White Forest Cake filling?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain them slightly before cooking the filling to avoid excess liquid.

Is it possible to make the White Forest Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cake flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just be sure to include xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it for structure.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and voilà, homemade buttermilk!

How do I prevent the cherry filling from making the cake soggy?

Piping a frosting border before adding the filling helps seal it within the layers and prevents it from leaking or soaking into your cake too much.

Can I make the frosting without cream cheese?

While cream cheese adds wonderful tanginess and creaminess, you can substitute with all butter for a classic white chocolate buttercream. Just omit the cream cheese and increase butter slightly for best results.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a White Forest Cake that brings joy and celebration to any table. Its delicate layers, bright cherry filling, and rich white chocolate frosting come together in perfect harmony, making it a treat you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or simply because you deserve a delicious slice, the White Forest Cake is guaranteed to impress and delight. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make this stunning dessert your own favorite!

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