The Black Forest ‘Viennetta’ combines the classic elegance of a Viennetta with the rich, decadent flavors of a Black Forest cake. With layers of velvety vanilla ice-cream, crunchy dark chocolate, and bursts of sweet cherries, this frozen dessert is topped with a luscious cherry sauce that will leave your guests in awe. Surprisingly easy to make, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, and the dramatic presentation ensures it’s always the centerpiece of the table.

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest ‘Viennetta’

This dessert isn’t just stunning; it’s also versatile and straightforward to prepare. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact: Despite its luxurious look, this dessert requires only six ingredients and a few simple steps.
• Rich Black Forest Flavors: The combination of cherries, chocolate, and vanilla ice-cream is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It can be prepared the day before, so you can focus on other aspects of your meal when hosting.
• Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to include your favorite chocolate or liqueur, making it truly your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Black Forest Viennetta

Here’s what makes this dessert both simple and spectacular:

1. Vanilla Ice-Cream (2L tub): Forms the creamy base of the dessert, perfectly complementing the cherries and chocolate.
2. Dark Chocolate (200g, melted): Creates thin, crispy layers that add texture and richness.
3. Pitted Black Cherries (415g can): Sweet and juicy, these cherries are essential for the Black Forest flavor. Use the syrup for the sauce and keep some fresh cherries for decoration.
4. Black Cherry Jam (160g, ½ cup): Adds depth and sweetness to the cherry sauce.
5. Brandy (2 tbsp): Enhances the flavor of the cherry sauce with a subtle warmth and complexity.
6. Fresh Cherries (to decorate): Adds a vibrant and festive touch to the presentation.

How to Make Black Forest ‘Viennetta’

This recipe involves just a few key steps: softening the ice-cream, creating chocolate layers, assembling the dessert, and preparing the cherry sauce.

Step 1: Soften the Ice-Cream
Place the vanilla ice-cream tub in the fridge for about 30 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to layer. Meanwhile, lightly grease a 7.5cm-deep, 11cm x 21cm loaf pan and line it with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap extends beyond the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Chocolate Layers
Lay five sheets of baking paper on your countertop. Using the base of the loaf pan as a guide, trace and cut out five rectangles. Thinly spread melted chocolate onto each rectangle to create delicate chocolate layers. Allow these to set at room temperature or refrigerate them briefly if your kitchen is warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherries
Drain the canned cherries, reserving the syrup for the sauce. Gently pat the cherries dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture. Coarsely chop the cherries and set them aside.

Step 4: Assemble the ‘Viennetta’

1. Break one chocolate rectangle into shards and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for later use as decoration.
2. Divide the softened ice-cream into four portions. Take one portion and roughly cut it into slices on a chopping board.
3. Layer these ice-cream slices in the base of the prepared pan, smoothing the surface gently with the back of a spoon.
4. Sprinkle one-quarter of the chopped cherries over the ice-cream layer, then place a whole chocolate rectangle on top.
5. Repeat this process with the remaining ice-cream, cherries, and chocolate rectangles, finishing with a chocolate layer on top.
6. Cover the pan with foil and freeze overnight or until the dessert is completely firm.

Step 5: Make the Cherry Sauce

1. Combine the black cherry jam, brandy, and 185g (¾ cup) of the reserved cherry syrup in a small saucepan.
2. Stir the mixture over medium-low heat until smooth.
3. Increase the heat to medium and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Allow the sauce to cool completely before serving.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

1. Invert the ice-cream loaf onto a serving plate and carefully remove the plastic wrap.
2. Decorate the top with the reserved chocolate shards and fresh cherries.
3. Drizzle the cooled cherry sauce over the dessert. Serve immediately for a dramatic, delicious finale to your meal.

Tips for Success Black Forest Viennetta

• Softening the Ice-Cream: Don’t let the ice-cream melt completely; it should be soft enough to spread but still hold its shape.
• Chocolate Layers: Thin chocolate is essential for easy slicing. Spread the chocolate as evenly as possible for a professional look.
• Cherry Sauce: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the brandy or replace it with a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
• Fresh Cherries: For a pop of color and flavor, use fresh, plump cherries as garnish, especially if serving this dessert during cherry season.

Variations to Try

• Berry Swap: Replace cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruit profile.
• Chocolate Upgrade: Experiment with flavored chocolate (e.g., orange-infused dark chocolate) for an extra twist.
• Liqueur Options: Substitute the brandy with Kirsch (cherry liqueur) or a chocolate liqueur for enhanced flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) of Black Forest Viennetta

• Energy: 1578 kJ (377 cal)
• Protein: 5.4g
• Total Fat: 17.7g (Saturated: 13.7g)
• Carbohydrates: 47.4g (Sugars: 20.1g)
• Sodium: 46.9mg

A Dessert Worth the Effort

The Black Forest ‘Viennetta’ is a true showstopper that delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Each bite combines the smooth creaminess of vanilla ice-cream, the crispness of dark chocolate, and the sweetness of cherries, all brought together by the indulgent cherry sauce.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to impress your family, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Its nostalgic flavors and elegant presentation make it a memorable treat for any occasion. So go ahead—give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

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