Black Forest Cake Roll: A Classic Dessert with a Modern Twist

Indulge in this Black Forest Cake Roll, a stunning dessert inspired by the classic Black Forest cake. With its soft chocolate sponge, whipped cream filling, and luscious cherry topping, this roll is drizzled with chocolate for a sophisticated touch. Perfect for celebrations or any occasion where you want to wow your guests!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Decoration:

• 1 cup cherries (fresh or canned, pitted)
• 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate
• Chocolate curls or shavings
• Whipped cream for garnish

Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Sponge

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Batter: Beat the eggs and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together, then gently fold them into the egg mixture. Add the vanilla extract and stir gently.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the sponge springs back when lightly pressed.

2. Roll the Sponge

1. Roll While Warm: Turn the warm sponge onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the sponge (with the towel) from the shorter side. Let it cool completely.

3. Whip the Cream Filling

1. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

4. Assemble the Cake Roll

1. Spread the Filling: Unroll the cooled sponge and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Add Cherries: Sprinkle cherries evenly over the whipped cream layer.
3. Re-roll the Cake: Carefully roll the sponge back up without the towel. Place seam-side down on a serving plate and refrigerate for 1 hour.

5. Decorate the Roll

1. Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the roll, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
2. Add Final Touches: Decorate with dollops of whipped cream, fresh cherries, and chocolate curls or shavings for an elegant presentation.

Tips for Success

• Soft and Flexible Sponge: Roll the sponge while it’s still warm to prevent cracks.
• Chill for Easy Slicing: Refrigerate the roll for at least an hour before slicing for clean, neat pieces.
• Enhance the Flavor: For a traditional twist, brush the sponge with kirsch or cherry syrup before spreading the cream.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations

• Berry Bliss: Swap cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.
• Double Chocolate: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache along with the whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• Alcohol-Free: Use cherry preserves for flavoring instead of kirsch for a kid-friendly option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black Forest Cake Roll is a beautiful and delicious dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate, cream, and cherries in a modern rolled presentation. It’s perfect for impressing guests and elevating any celebration.

Try this Black Forest Cake Roll today and enjoy the perfect blend of classic and modern flavors in every bite!