Try Easy Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Recipe

Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau
Yields: 1 Serving

Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau is an extravagant dessert, boasting layers of moist chocolate cake, rich whipped cream, and succulent cherries. This dessert stands as a pinnacle of indulgence, perfect for gracing the tables of special events, or dinner parties, or serving as a sumptuous treat for family gatherings. Designed to cater to 8-10 people, this gateau requires about 2 to 2.5 hours of preparation and cooking time.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of creating this masterpiece, complete with all the insider tips and techniques to ensure your Black Forest Gateau is nothing short of spectacular.

What is Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Recipe?

The Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau is a luxurious reinterpretation of the German classic, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. It features layers of moist chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries, often laced with Kirsch, a cherry brandy. This gateau stands out for its intricate balance of flavors and textures, making it a beloved dessert worldwide.

 

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Elegance on a Plate: Its sophisticated appearance makes it a showstopper for any occasion.
  • Layered Flavors: The combination of chocolate, cherries, and cream is both rich and refreshing.
  • Versatile: Suitable for various celebrations, from birthdays to holiday gatherings.
  • Skill Building: A great opportunity to hone your baking and cake decorating skills.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau

To make Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau, you need the following Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 200g plain flour
  • 250g caster sugar
  • 50g cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100ml vegetable oil
  • 250ml buttermilk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 100ml boiling water

For the Filling and Topping:

  • 600ml heavy cream
  • 50g icing sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 400g cherries (pitted and halved, fresh or canned)
  • 100ml Kirsch (optional)
  • Dark chocolate shavings (for decoration)
  • Whole cherries (for decoration)

Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau

Follow these steps to make this recipe:

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Layers

  • Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 4). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  • Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add sugar and mix well.
  • Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Combine and Bake: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth and well combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Assembling the Gateau

  • Whip the Cream: While the cakes cool, whip the heavy cream with icing sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If using Kirsch, reserve some cream for the topping and fold the Kirsch gently into the remaining cream.
  • Layer the Cake: Once cooled, if the cakes have domed on top, level them with a knife. Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Brush generously with Kirsch if using. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, then scatter over half the cherries. Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.
  • Decorate: Cover the top and sides of the gateau with the reserved whipped cream. Use a piping bag and nozzle for a more decorative finish, if desired. Scatter over the remaining cherries and sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings.

Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Recipe

What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau?

Pairing the perfect accompaniment with the Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau elevates the overall dining experience.

Here are some suggestions that complement its rich flavors:

  • A Cup of Strong Coffee: The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the gateau.
  • Glass of Dessert Wine: Choose a sweet dessert wine to enhance the deep cherry and chocolate flavors.
  • Whipped Cream on the Side: Extra whipped cream offers a creamy texture for those who desire more.
  • Fresh Cherries: Serve with fresh cherries to highlight the cherry component in the gateau.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau

Achieving perfection in making the Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau is about understanding the subtleties of its preparation.

Here are expert tips to guide you:

  • Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for high-quality chocolate and fresh cherries for a richer taste.
  • Do Not Rush the Cooling Process: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembly to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
  • Even Layers are Key: Use a serrated knife to ensure your cake layers are even and flat for a balanced structure.
  • Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled gateau for at least an hour before serving to set the layers perfectly.

Variations of Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau

Exploring variations of the classic Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau allows you to tailor this delightful dessert to your taste preferences or to simply experiment with new flavors.

  • Alcohol-Free Delight: Opt for cherry juice instead of Kirsch for a family-friendly version.
  • Berry Twist: Substitute cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different berry experience.
  • Chocolate Richness: Use dark chocolate cake layers for an even more intense chocolate flavor.
  • Nutty Layer: Add a crunch by sprinkling chopped hazelnuts or almonds between the layers.

How do I Store Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Leftovers?

Proper storage of your Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau leftovers ensures you can enjoy this exquisite dessert for a little longer.

  • Refrigeration Is Key: Store the gateau in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • Keep It Cool: Ensure it’s kept cool to maintain the integrity of the whipped cream and prevent sogginess.
  • Short-Term Solution: Best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.

How do I Reheat Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Leftovers?

Enjoying your Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau at its best means knowing how to properly serve it after storage.

  • Room Temperature Serving: Ideally, serve it chilled or allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
  • Avoid the Microwave: Reheating is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the cream and sponge.
  • Embrace the Chill: Enjoying this gateau cold is part of its charm, enhancing the cream’s richness and the cake’s moistness.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving, estimates for the entire gateau divided into 10 servings):

  • Calories: 450-550 kcal
  • Fat: 25-35g (Saturated Fat: 15-20g)
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g (Sugar: 35-45g)
  • Protein: 5-7g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sodium: 200-300mg

FAQs

Can I Make Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau Without Alcohol?

Yes, you can easily make this gateau without alcohol. For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the Kirsch traditionally used to soak the cherries and cake layers with cherry juice or cherry syrup. This substitution keeps the cake family-friendly while still offering the delightful cherry flavor that complements the chocolate and cream.

What’s the Best Way to Store Black Forest Gateau?

The best way to store Black Forest Gateau is by keeping it in the refrigerator. Place the gateau or any leftovers in an airtight container or cover it well with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge. Properly stored, the gateau can last for up to 3 days. Remember, it’s not recommended to freeze the gateau because freezing can alter the texture of the cream.

How Do I Ensure My Cake Layers Are Moist?

To ensure your cake layers remain moist, avoid overbaking them. Keep a close eye on the baking time and check the cakes towards the end of the recommended baking period with a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean, your cakes are done. Additionally, brushing the cake layers with cherry syrup or Kirsch (if using alcohol) not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the cake moist.

Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Canned for the Gateau?

Absolutely, fresh cherries are a wonderful choice for this gateau, especially when they are in season. If you opt for fresh cherries, ensure they are pitted and halved before using. Fresh cherries not only add a vibrant flavor but also contribute to the overall presentation of the cake. If fresh cherries are not available, canned cherries are a convenient and tasty alternative.

Final Words

Making the Hairy Bikers Black Forest Gateau is an adventure in baking that’s definitely worth the effort. It’s perfect for any special event or just as a treat for yourself and the people you care about. This recipe is your key to making a dessert that everyone will remember. Baking isn’t just about the steps; it’s about putting your love into what you make. So relax, have fun with it, and look forward to enjoying a piece of this delicious cake. Enjoy your baking!

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