Dutch Oven Black Forest Cake

There’s something truly magical about the combination of rich chocolate and cherries in a decadent dessert—especially when it’s as easy to make as our Dutch Oven Black Forest Cake. This delightful treat brings together the classic flavors of a Black Forest cake in a rustic, cozy, and oh-so-satisfying way. Baked to perfection in a Dutch oven, this cake is not only delicious but also beautifully presented. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a comforting dessert, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a show-stopping dessert your friends and family will love.

**Dutch Oven Black Forest Cake**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– ¾ cup buttermilk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– ¾ cup boiling water
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your Dutch oven by placing it over a small bed of hot coals.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. It will be thin, but that’s okay.
6. Grease the bottom of the preheated Dutch oven with a little butter or non-stick spray.
7. Pour half of the batter into the Dutch oven, spreading it evenly.
8. Spoon cherry pie filling over the batter, making sure to distribute it evenly.
9. Gently pour the remaining batter over the cherry layer, spreading it out to cover the cherries.
10. Place the lid on the Dutch oven and carefully arrange hot coals on top of the lid to create an even heat source.
11. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Once done, remove the Dutch oven from the heat and let the cake cool for a few minutes.
13. Serve the Black Forest Cake warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.

This Dutch Oven Black Forest Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for cozy nights by the fire or special occasions. The combination of rich chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to please any crowd. So, next time you’re craving a bit of indulgence, whip up this easy and delicious treat for a memorable culinary experience. Enjoy every bite of this homemade delight!