This Forest Swiss Roll combines the elegance of a Swiss roll with the classic flavors of Black Forest cake. With rich chocolate sponge cake, sweet cherry filling, and luscious whipped cream, it’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a slice of indulgence!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups pitted cherries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Extra cherries
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
This combination of ingredients creates a light yet decadent dessert with the perfect balance of chocolate, cream, and cherries.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined, taking care not to deflate the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
3. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cherries and sugar over medium heat, cooking until the cherries are softened and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir it into the cherries and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Filling:
- In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat, or the cream may turn grainy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully spread the whipped cream over the entire surface, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Spoon the cherry filling over the whipped cream, spreading it out evenly.
- Starting from one short end, gently roll the cake into a log shape, using the parchment paper to help guide it. Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to set.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, dust the cake with cocoa powder or sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Garnish with extra cherries for a beautiful presentation.
- Slice and enjoy your Black Forest Swiss Roll!
Tips for the Perfect Swiss Roll
- Work Quickly: After baking, roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracks. You can unroll it to add filling after it cools.
- Chill the Whipped Cream: Make sure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping. A chilled bowl also helps to achieve stiff peaks.
- Let the Roll Chill: Chilling the rolled cake helps it keep its shape and makes slicing easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Forest Swiss Roll is a stunning dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The combination of light chocolate sponge, sweet-tart cherry filling, and creamy whipped topping is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether for a holiday or a special gathering, this dessert is sure to impress.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 8-10 slices
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen cherries for the filling?
- Yes! Frozen cherries work well. Just thaw them before cooking and drain any excess liquid.
2. How can I make the sponge cake gluten-free?
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for 1:1 substitutions. The texture may vary slightly.
3. What if my cake cracks while rolling?
- Small cracks are normal and can be covered with whipped cream or garnishes. Rolling the cake while warm helps minimize cracks.
4. How do I store leftovers?
- Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days.
5. Can I make the roll ahead of time?
- Yes! This dessert can be made a day ahead. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Forest Swiss Roll is a delicious, elegant dessert that brings together rich chocolate, creamy whipped filling, and sweet cherries in a stunning presentation. Whether for a special celebration or a cozy family dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy each indulgent bite!