Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sift through the flour and sugar, the sweet scent of nostalgia fills the air. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for White Forest Cake—a delightful dessert that effortlessly brings elegance to any occasion. This stunning cake features layers of light, fluffy sponge, complemented by a luscious cherry filling and a creamy, not-too-sweet cream cheese frosting. Not only is it a showstopper for celebrations like Valentine’s Day and Christmas, but it also boasts incredible versatility—perfect for those who love a touch of fruitiness in their desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone looking to elevate your baking game, this White Forest Cake promises to impress without hours of complicated prep. Ready to create a dessert that looks as good as it tastes? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe! Why is White Forest Cake So Special? Simplicity at Its Finest: This elegant cake is easy to make, making it perfect for all bakers, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro. Balanced Flavors: With a delightful marriage of tart cherries and creamy frosting, each bite is a taste of pure heaven. Versatile Option: Switch out the cherry filling for your favorite berries or try a fluffy whipped cream frosting for a fun twist! Eye-Catching Design: The layers of cake and filling create a stunning visual that will impress at any gathering—don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe! Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cake layers in advance and freeze them, saving time for those busy celebration days. Need more inspiration? You might enjoy making a Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon or a Jiggly Japanese Cheesecake for your next baking adventure! White Forest Cake Ingredients • Get ready to bake the perfect White Forest Cake! For the Cake Cake Flour – Provides a light texture for the sponge cake; substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser result. Sugar – Sweetens the cake and beautifully balances the tart cherry filling; no direct substitutes recommended. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help the cake rise; fresh supplies are key for the best rise. Salt – Enhances flavor; either standard table salt or sea salt works wonderfully. Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness; regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar can serve as a substitute. Melted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; vegetable oil can replace it if desired. Egg Whites – Offers the light, airy texture; whole eggs can be used but will alter color and texture slightly. Vanilla & Almond Extract – Flavor enhancers that deepen the taste; pure extracts yield the best results. For the Cherry Filling Frozen Cherries – Used in the filling; fresh cherries are a seasonal swap, but adjust sweetness if necessary. Cherry Liqueur – Adds a rich flavor to the filling; you can omit it for a non-alcoholic version or use cherry extract instead. Cornstarch – Thickens the cherry filling; no substitute needed here. For the Frosting Cream Cheese – The main ingredient in the creamy frosting; mascarpone can be used for variety, though flavors will differ. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting; alternative sweeteners may work, but texture may vary. Enjoy the process of creating your delicious White Forest Cake! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Forest Cake Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of cake flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly blended. This precise combination sets the foundation for a fluffy White Forest Cake. Take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma of the sugar as it dances with the flour! Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of melted butter, 4 egg whites, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated. This creamy blend will help achieve the cake’s moisture and delicate texture, creating a luscious base for your delightful dessert. Step 3: Prepare Batter Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. Take a moment to appreciate the batter’s glossy sheen, which indicates it’s ready for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the pans. Step 4: Bake Evenly divide the batter among three greased 8-inch round cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and carefully place them in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Step 5: Prepare Cherry Filling In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of frozen cherries, ¼ cup of cherry liqueur (or cherry extract), ½ cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Once achieved, transfer to a bowl and chill it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 6: Make Frosting In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Don’t rush through this step; take the time to achieve a silky texture that will elevate your White Forest Cake. Step 7: Assemble Cake Begin layering your cake by placing the first layer on a serving plate, and generously frost the top with your cream cheese mixture. Spoon a layer of chilled cherry filling on top, then repeat this process with the second cake layer. For the third layer, top and frost the entire cake to create a beautiful, creamy exterior, making sure each layer is visually distinct and delicious. Step 8: Garnish and Serve For a charming touch, garnish your finished White Forest Cake with fresh cherries on top and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Slice into the cake and serve, enjoying each light, fluffy bite. With this elegant presentation, your delightful White Forest Cake is sure to be the star of any celebration! How to Store and Freeze White Forest Cake Fridge: Store leftover White Forest Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture. Freezer: Slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: Thaw frozen cake slices in the refrigerator overnight. Enjoy them at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds. Assembly Tips: If you plan to assemble before freezing, frost the layers only before serving to preserve the frosting’s texture and flavor. White Forest Cake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative—this delightful cake can easily be tailored to suit your taste and dietary needs! Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a plant-based version. It keeps the cake moist while making it a friendlier option for those avoiding dairy. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake flour blend in place of regular flour. This ensures everyone gets to enjoy a slice without compromising on taste or texture. Berry Twist: Swap out the cherry filling for raspberries or a mix of seasonal berries. The brightness of the berries brings a lovely and refreshing flavor profile to this already elegant cake. Lighter Frosting: Use whipped cream instead of cream cheese for a fluffy, airy frosting. It offers a lighter touch that perfectly complements the cake without overpowering it. Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a bright citrus twist. This adds a refreshing zesty note that elevates the entire dessert experience. Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, on top of the frosting for added texture. The crunch balances the softness of the cake beautifully while adding a nutty flair. Omit the Liqueur: For a non-alcoholic option, skip the cherry liqueur and use extra cherry extract. This maintains the authentic cherry flavor without any alcohol. Vegan Version: Replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture or applesauce while using the dairy-free options mentioned. This gives you a completely vegan-friendly White Forest Cake that everyone will love. Want something sweeter? You might also enjoy diving into vibrant desserts like Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon or classic Butterfinger Cheesecake! Make Ahead Options Preparing your stunning White Forest Cake ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy celebration days! You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance and freeze them for optimal freshness—just wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. The cherry filling can also be made a day prior, ensuring you refrigerate it after cooking to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. On the day of serving, simply thaw the layers in the fridge overnight, then assemble the cake by frosting and layering the cherry filling. With this make-ahead approach, your White Forest Cake will be just as delicious, ready to impress your guests at a moment’s notice! What to Serve with Elegant White Forest Cake? This stunning dessert deserves delightful companions to elevate your dining experience and create memorable moments. Coffee or Espresso: The rich, deep flavors in coffee beautifully balance the sweetness of the cake, making each bite even more enjoyable. Refreshing Mint Tea: A soothing mint tea offers a cool contrast to the cake’s creamy frosting, refreshing your palate with every sip. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats add a fruity, chocolaty element, harmonizing perfectly with the cake’s elegant layers. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in texture, enhancing the cherry filling’s tartness with its comforting sweetness. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a burst of freshness, making for a celebratory and colorful plate alongside the cake. Sparkling Water with Citrus: Bright, fizzy beverages cleanse the palate and provide a zesty kick that enhances the cake’s rich flavors. Lemonade: A tart and sweet lemonade creates a playful contrast to the creamy layers, making every slice a refreshing experience. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, a side of chocolate mousse adds an indulgent flair that pairs well with the cherry notes of the cake. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses with honey or fig preserves provides a savory balance, rounding out the dessert experience with gourmet flair. Expert Tips for White Forest Cake Baking Even Layers: Ensure even cake layers by placing the pans in the center of the oven and rotating them halfway through baking. Chill Layers: To prevent domed tops, wrap the cooled layers in plastic wrap and refrigerate before frosting. This helps create a flatter surface for stacking. Avoid Crumbly Frosting: For a smoother cream cheese frosting, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve the right consistency. Use Serrated Knife: If the cakes have risen unevenly, use a serrated knife to level the tops for neat stacking and a professional finish. Flavor Adaptations: Experiment with different fruit fillings or extracts to customize your White Forest Cake. Swap cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist! White Forest Cake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right cherries for my filling? Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for firm, plump ones with a vibrant color. If using fresh cherries, ensure they are in season for the best sweetness—avoid those with dark spots or blemishes. For frozen cherries, check that they are without ice crystals and packed in resealable bags to prevent freezer burn. How should I store my White Forest Cake once it’s made? Very! Store your White Forest Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its moisture and freshness, you can place a layer of plastic wrap between the cake and container lid. If your cake has decorations made from cream cheese frosting, it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later to retain the quality. Can I freeze my White Forest Cake? Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they are sealed well to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze your cake for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. What should I do if my cake layers dome while baking? Not a problem! If your cake layers dome, you can level them with a serrated knife for even stacking before frosting. To avoid this in the future, consider wrapping the pans in damp cloths while baking. This helps regulate the temperature and keeps the cakes from baking too quickly, resulting in flat tops. Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free? Definitely! To adapt your White Forest Cake to be dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and use dairy-free butter. Be sure to check your cream cheese for dairy-free options or explore making your own frosting with coconut cream as a delicious alternative. Can I modify the frosting for allergies? Very! If anyone has a cream cheese allergy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese or a whipped coconut cream frosting. Both will provide a delightful base that complements the White Forest Cake without compromising on taste. Always check labels for any hidden allergens in the ingredients you choose. Delightful White Forest Cake with Cherry Filling and Creamy Frosting This White Forest Cake combines light sponge layers with luscious cherry filling and creamy frosting for an elegant dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 26 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 6 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: CakesCuisine: DessertCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups cake flour can substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser result1.5 cups sugar no direct substitutes recommended2 teaspoons baking powder fresh supplies are key for the best rise1 teaspoon baking soda fresh supplies are key for the best rise0.5 teaspoon salt standard table salt or sea salt works well1 cup buttermilk can substitute with regular milk and vinegar0.5 cups melted butter vegetable oil can replace if desired4 large egg whites whole eggs can be used but may alter texture2 teaspoons vanilla extract pure extracts yield the best results1 teaspoon almond extract pure extracts yield the best resultsFor the Cherry Filling2 cups frozen cherries can substitute with fresh cherries, adjust sweetness0.25 cups cherry liqueur omit for a non-alcoholic version0.5 cups sugar2 tablespoons cornstarch no substitute neededFor the Frosting8 ounces cream cheese can substitute with mascarpone3 cups powdered sugar alternative sweeteners may work Equipment Mixing bowlsWhiskSpatulaCake PansSaucepanElectric mixerrefrigeratorOvenWire racks Method Cake PreparationIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, melted butter, egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract, whisking until smooth.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).Evenly divide the batter among three greased 8-inch round cake pans and bake for approximately 26 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.Cherry Filling PreparationIn a medium saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, cherry liqueur, sugar, and cornstarch.Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened. Chill in the refrigerator after reaching desired consistency.Frosting PreparationIn a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with vanilla extract until creamy.Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.Cake AssemblyLayer the first cake on a serving plate and frost the top with the cream cheese mixture.Spoon a layer of cherry filling on top, repeat with the second layer, and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.Garnish with fresh cherries and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftover White Forest Cake in an airtight container. Can freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator. 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