The English name of this is famous cake is Black Forest Cake or Black Forest Gateau. In Germany, it is called “Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte,” that literally translates to “Black Forest cherry-torte.” The cake has many layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream and cherries. It is decorated with additional whipped cream, cherries and chocolate shavings. It is truly not a black forest cake unless the layers have been added with “kirschwasser” (a clear spirit made with sour cherries).

Many people think it is named after the Black Forest. However, it is really named after the specialty liquor of that region.

We sometimes get requests for cake, and although not ideal for aircraft due to packaging, it always best to source any cake from a great bakery in your area. Build that relationship with local suppliers for items that we do not carry in-house. Many times, these products are a much better quality, as well it can also lower food cost with a good relationship.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this article or flight crew culinary training, contact me at jdetloff@airculinaire.com. For questions about in-flight catering, contact weborders@airculinaire.com.