Black Forest cake is a cake that’s made up of multiple layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries. Some historians believe that it originated in the Black Forest region of Germany during the 16th century and saw an increase in popularity in the United States starting in the 1930s. This dessert is so popular it has even earned its own holiday—a holiday that’s observed on March 28th annually and is known as National Black Forest Day.

The History of Black Forest Cake

While the origins of the Black Forest cake aren’t all that clear, some historians believe that its origins can indeed be traced back to the Black Forest region of Germany. This part of Germany is well known for its sour cherries and Kirschwasser—a clear cherry brandy. While cakes made in the 16th century weren’t exactly like modern Black Forest cakes, it’s believed that sponge cake and cherries were made into cakes that were very similar. During the 18th century, Kirschtorte was created after Kirschwasser brandy production began to ramp up in the region. The cakes created during this time didn’t contain whipped cream, however. That addition wouldn’t happen until the beginning of the 20th century.

The confectioner Josef Keller has stated that he invented the modern Black Forest cake in 1915 at the Café Agner near Bonn—a city in Western Germany that straddles the Rhine. However, it needs to be said that his claims have never been verified, so it’s unclear whether or not he actually invented the cake. One thing that is clear, however, is that recipes for Black Forest Gateau began to appear in print during the 1930s and 1940s.

As far as the origin of this holiday, we were unable to uncover who invented it or when it was invented. While we’ll continue searching for its illustrious beginnings, it’s likely that the holiday’s origins have been lost to history.

Random Facts About Black Forest Cake

Since it’s important to always have some tasty facts about a holiday available so you can impress your friends with them on the day of the holiday, we decided to look up some random facts about Black Forest cake.

• Black Forest cake is also known as Black Forest cherry cake, Black Forest torte, and Black Forest gateau.
• It’s said that it gets its name from the region where it was invented, while others say it got its name because it resembles the traditional Black Forest costumes worn by people in the region.
• Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte must use Kirschwasser, cherries, cream, and buttercream.

Observing National Black Forest Cake Day

National Black Forest Cake Day is one of the most delicious holidays to celebrate. All a person who wants to celebrate it has to do is pick up a Black Forest Cake, or Black Forest Gateau as it’s commonly called, or try their hand at making their own. Black Forest cakes are delicious, especially when they’re served with a nice coffee. While observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalBlackForestCakeDay to spread the love about it around the world.