Black Forest cakes have always been a
favorite among people all over the world and its popularity has only grown in
the past few decades. The Black Forest cake or Black Forest Gateau is
essentially a cream cake. In the 1930s its consumption became widespread in
Germany. Germany has always been known for its quality chocolate and Kirsch
made from cherries. A combination of the two gives us the Black Forest Cakes
we know today.
Tracing the history of black forest
cakes has led to some uncertain conclusions. However, a few theories throw
light on its origin. Most of the theories revolve around the question “What
gave the black forest cake its name?”
The most common theory states that the
name is derived from the appearance on the cake itself. Black Forest Cakes
are decorated in a particular way. The entire cake is coated with whipped cream
along the ring and the top. This layer of whipped cream is covered with dark
chocolate shavings. This leads to the assumption that the dark chocolate
shavings resemble a black forest. Another theory traces back its origins to a
region that is described as a black forest. A region in the southern part of
Germany is known as Black Forest. This forest is known for its delicious
Morella cherries and Kirsch, a cherry brandy. The cherries that go into making
of Black Forest Cakes are infused with kirsch to bring out their flavor.
Some people believe that the cake may be inspired by the Black Forest Woman’s
costume. This costume is a dark dress that resembles chocolate, a cream colored
blouse resembling whipped cream and a hat with red pompoms that remind us of
cherries.
