Black Forest Roll Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer for about 5-6 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and fluffy. This is key for creating a light sponge.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in small batches, being careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

Step 2: Roll the Cake

1. While the cake is still hot, dust the surface with powdered sugar. Place a clean kitchen towel over the top and carefully invert the cake onto the towel.
2. Gently peel off the parchment paper.
3. Starting from one short end, roll the cake up with the towel inside. Allow it to cool completely rolled up—this helps prevent cracks later.

Step 3: Prepare the Fillings

1. In a large bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
2. If using kirsch, mix it with the cherry filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll Cake

1. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge cake. Spread an even layer of whipped cream over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Spoon the cherry filling over the whipped cream, distributing it evenly.
3. Gently re-roll the cake, using the towel to help guide you. Don’t worry if a little filling oozes out—it adds to the charm!
4. Place the roll cake seam-side down on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once chilled, spread a thin layer of whipped cream over the outside of the roll cake.
2. Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh cherries, and a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
3. Slice carefully and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Whip the eggs well: This creates the cake’s structure and ensures it’s light and fluffy.
• Don’t skip the towel step: Rolling the cake while it’s hot helps prevent cracks when assembling.
• Use chilled cream: Cold heavy cream whips up more quickly and holds its shape better.
• Adjust sweetness: If your cherries are very sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the whipped cream slightly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Black Forest Roll Cake takes everything you love about the traditional Black Forest Cake and transforms it into a visually stunning, easy-to-serve dessert. Each slice delivers a bite of moist chocolate cake, sweet cherries, and airy whipped cream—an irresistible combination that never goes out of style.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a weekend indulgence, this roll cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. It’s light, elegant, and oh-so-satisfying.

Final Thoughts

The Black Forest Roll Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a nod to tradition while embracing modern elegance, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Indulge, slice by slice, and enjoy the magic of this Black Forest Roll Cake. 🍒🍫