Imitators be warned, the Black Forest Gateau - or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, as it is known in Germany - has been granted protected status by the European Commission.

The cake takes its name from the clear schnapps made from the sour cherries that grow in the Black Forest in south-western Germany.

The cake’s protected status now means it must be made using kirsch from the Black Forest, in order to be called a Black Forest Gateau.

Local bakers in the Black Forest region, who have long had to adhere to a set of regulations, have backed the decision, reported The Independent.

Will you be affected by this decision? Let us know by emailing bb@wrbm.com.