Black Forest Pancakes with Cherries & Whipped Cream

Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat that marries fluffy pancakes with the rich, decadent flavors of the Black Forest region in Germany. These Black Forest Pancakes are a heavenly concoction of chocolate-infused batter, juicy cherries, and a cloud of whipped cream that transforms your morning routine into a celebration.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is renowned for its dense woods, picturesque landscapes, and, of course, its legendary cake. This region has a storied history steeped in tradition, where the marriage of chocolate, cherries, and cream became a beloved combination. The inspiration for these pancakes comes from the classic Black Forest cake, a dessert that has captivated taste buds for centuries. By channeling the essence of this iconic treat into a breakfast format, these pancakes allow you to savor a slice of history with every bite.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

What sets these pancakes apart is their harmonious blend of ingredients that evoke a symphony of flavors. Rich cocoa powder swirls through the pancake batter, imparting a deep, chocolatey taste that pairs exquisitely with the tartness of fresh cherries. The use of buttermilk lends a delightful tang and ensures that each pancake is tender and airy, while the whipped cream adds a luxurious finish that feels like a warm embrace. Together, these elements create a breakfast dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, inviting you to savor the moment and relish in the simple joys of life.

With every forkful, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re partaking in a delicious story that bridges cultures and time, making these Black Forest Pancakes a delightful way to start your day.

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr

Cooking Method: Cooking, Mixing

Cuisine: European, Germane

Courses: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: 10

Calories: 240 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

These Black Forest Pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring layers of chocolate pancakes, tart cherries, and a cloud of whipped cream that will make your breakfast unforgettable.

Ingredients

Pancake Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour (Sifted for a lighter pancake texture.)
2 tbsp cocoa powder (Unsweetened for rich chocolate flavor.)
2 tbsp sugar (Adjust to taste; you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.)
1 tbsp baking powder (Ensure it's fresh for optimal fluffiness.)
1/2 tsp salt (Balances the sweetness.)
1 cup milk (Whole milk is best for richness, but any milk works.)
1 large egg (Room temperature for better mixing.)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (Melted, plus more for cooking.)

Cherry Topping

1 cup cherries (Pitted and chopped; fresh or frozen both work.)
2 tbsp sugar (Adjust according to your sweetness preference.)
1 tbsp lemon juice (Enhances the cherry flavor.)

Creamy Topping

1 cup whipped cream (Homemade is best, but store-bought works in a pinch.)
2 tbsp powdered sugar (Adjust according to your sweetness preference.)
1 tsp vanilla extract (For depth of flavor.)

Instructions

Preparing the Pancake Batter

1
Mix the Dry IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
Sifting the cocoa powder can help avoid clumps, ensuring a smoother batter.
2
Combine the Wet IngredientsIn another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot to avoid cooking the egg.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3
Combine Wet and Dry IngredientsPour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes, so embrace those lumps!

Cooking the Pancakes

4
Preheat the PanHeat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles on the surface.
Make sure the pan is evenly heated to avoid uneven cooking.
5
Cook the PancakesPour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the other side is cooked through.
Keep the pancakes warm in a low oven while you cook the remaining batter.

Preparing the Cherry Topping

6
Cook the CherriesIn a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices.
You can add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost!

Whipping the Cream

7
Whip the CreamIn a chilled mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip until soft peaks form.
Make sure your bowl and beaters are cold to help the cream whip faster.

Serving the Pancakes

8
Assemble the PancakesStack 2-3 pancakes on a plate, spoon the warm cherry mixture over the top, and finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top!

Note

For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen cherries. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent sogginess.
Consider using dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer taste.
For a lighter pancake, separate the eggs and beat the egg whites until fluffy, then fold them into the batter at the end.
If you prefer a sweeter pancake, add a tablespoon of sugar or maple syrup to the batter.
Swap out regular milk for buttermilk to add a tangy flavor and improve the pancake's texture.
To enhance the cherry flavor, simmer them with a bit of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract before serving.
Use a non-stick skillet or griddle and keep it at medium heat to avoid burning the pancakes while ensuring they cook through.
For serving, stack the pancakes high and layer with whipped cream and cherries for a beautiful presentation.
Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a toaster or skillet.
Feel free to experiment with toppings such as chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate the dish.

Keywords: pancakes, black forest, cherries, whipped cream, breakfast

Final Thoughts

A Taste of Indulgence

As you savor each bite of these Black Forest Pancakes, let the rich chocolate harmoniously blend with the sweet and tangy cherries, all beautifully crowned with a cloud of whipped cream. It’s a symphony of flavors that evokes cozy mornings and joyful gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve them warm and fresh off the griddle, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that extra touch of decadence.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat in a skillet for a few moments to bring them back to life.

Join the Community

I invite you to try this recipe and experiment with your own twists, maybe adding a splash of vanilla or using different berries. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below—let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together!