A show-stopping dessert, this luxurious Black Forest Roll Cake combines rich, moist chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and luscious cherry filling all rolled into one stunning treat. With its perfect balance of sweetness, chocolate, and cherries, this cake is sure to impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (35g) cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) canned cherries in syrup, drained
- 2 tablespoons cherry brandy (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decoration:
- Dark chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10×15-inch (25×38 cm) jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper. - Make the chocolate sponge:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
- Roll the cake:
- While the cake is baking, lay out a clean kitchen towel and dust it generously with powdered sugar.
- When the cake is done, carefully flip it onto the prepared towel and peel off the parchment paper. Roll the cake up in the towel (starting from the short side) while it’s still warm, and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the cherry filling:
- In a small saucepan, mix the drained cherries, cherry brandy (if using), cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
- Make the whipped cream:
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the roll cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, gently unroll it.
- Spread an even layer of the whipped cream filling over the cake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Spoon the cherry filling over the whipped cream.
- Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel, ensuring it stays tight.
- Decorate the cake:
- Place the roll cake seam side down on a serving plate.
- Garnish with extra whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries, if desired.
- Chill and serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your luxurious Black Forest Roll Cake!