Black Forest Roll Cake – A Chocolate & Cherry Delight

The Black Forest Roll Cake is a delicious dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the sweet-tart taste of cherries. This rolled cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to eat. With fluffy whipped cream and juicy cherries tucked inside a soft chocolate sponge, it’s a treat that makes any occasion special.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make this Black Forest Roll Cake because it’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The smooth chocolate sponge cake rolls up easily, creating a beautiful presentation when sliced. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase fresh cherries during the summer months. Whether for a birthday, a special gathering, or just to indulge yourself, this cake will impress everyone.

How to Make Black Forest Roll Cake

Ingredients

4 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1/4 cup cherry preserves
1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings
Fresh cherries for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Sponge Cake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is thick and pale.
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate it. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. While the cake is warm, turn it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove the parchment paper and roll the cake tightly in the towel. Let it cool completely.
Make the Filling: Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Unroll the cooled cake and spread a thin layer of cherry preserves, followed by the whipped cream. Scatter the halved cherries over the cream.
Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, then place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
Garnish: Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the outside and top with dark chocolate shavings and fresh cherries. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing.

How to Serve Black Forest Roll Cake

Serve the Black Forest Roll Cake chilled. Slice the cake into even pieces and place it on dessert plates. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh cherries on top for extra decoration.

How to Store Black Forest Roll Cake

To store the Black Forest Roll Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfilled rolled cake for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before filling and serving.

Tips to Make Black Forest Roll Cake

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; they whip up better and make the cake fluffier.
Don’t skip the powdered sugar dusting on the towel; it helps prevent sticking when rolling the cake.
Use fresh cherries for the best flavor, but you can substitute them with cherry pie filling if needed.

Variation

You can try different fruit fillings if you want to switch it up! Strawberries or raspberries can be used instead of cherries for a twist on the classic recipe. Alternatively, you can add a hint of liqueur, like Kirsch, to the cream for a more traditional flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well beforehand to avoid excess moisture.

2. How do I prevent my cake from cracking when rolling?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm helps to prevent cracking. Also, make sure you roll it tightly, but not too hard that it squishes the cake.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and assemble it the day you plan to serve it. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator.

Enjoy making this delightful Black Forest Roll Cake, and savor every heavenly bite!