Theories on the origin of black forest cakes

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.

The black forest cake first made its appearance in the 16^th century. However this was not the same as the cake we see in stores today. The earliest black forest cake was a dessert that included cream, cooked cherries and biscuit, something similar to berry shortcake.