Step 1: Preparing the Cherry-Kirsch Filling

• - 🍒 Combine the Filling Ingredients: 3 cups of pitted dark sweet cherries, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of kirsch (kirschwasser), 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir together.
• - 🍒 Cook and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
• - 🍒 Chill the Filling: Remove from heat, cool, cover, and chill in the refrigerator until needed.

Step 2: Preparing the Cake Layers

• - 🍰 Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C, line three 6-inch cake pans with parchment, and use baking spray.
• - 🍰 Mix the Dry Ingredients: Combine 1 1/2 cups of cake flour, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
• - 🍰 Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then 5 teaspoons of vegetable oil, 2/3 cup of buttermilk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Gradually add egg whites and mix until smooth.
• - 🍰 Bake the Layers: Pour batter into pans and bake for 12-15 minutes, then cool on wire racks.

Step 3: Preparing the White Chocolate Whipped Cream Frosting

• - 🍫 Melt and Combine: Heat 4 oz of white chocolate and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Chill until cold.
• - 🍫 Whip the Frosting: Use an electric mixer to whip until fluffy. Optionally, add 1 tablespoon of white chocolate instant pudding mix for stability.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

• - 🍰 Layer and Frost: Place a cake layer, add cherry filling and whipped cream frosting. Repeat with the second layer.
• - 🍰 Add the Third Layer: Place the third cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
• - 🍰 Final Touches: Top with more cherry filling and white chocolate shavings if desired.

Enjoy your delightful White Forest Cake! 🍒🍰😋