Imagine the delightful aroma of chocolate mingling with sweet cherries filling your kitchen, a warm invitation that brightens even the grayest of days. That’s exactly what happens when I whip up this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe. It’s a little twist on the classic, transforming rich flavors into a stunning dessert that’s not just beautiful to look at, but a heartwarming send-off to those pesky fast-food cravings.
Picture this: guests raving about your culinary skills while you sip on your favorite drink, knowing you’ve effortlessly created something that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. This cake roll combines the velvety goodness of chocolate sponge cake with luscious whipped cream and a burst of cherry sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Whether it’s a weekend treat or a special celebration, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on this delicious journey together!
Why You'll Love This Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe
- This Black Forest Cake Roll is an effortlessly impressive dessert that combines rich chocolate and sweet cherries, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion.
- With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this decadent treat ready in no time, saving you precious moments without sacrificing taste.
- The beautiful presentation and tempting flavors ensure it’s a crowd-pleaser, drawing compliments from family and friends.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fillings and toppings, making it a delightful option for any celebration or gathering.
Black Forest Cake Roll Ingredients
Ready to create this luscious Black Forest Cake Roll? Let’s gather the essentials!
For the Cake
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – This forms the base, providing structure to your cake.
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor for that rich, decadent taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and achieve that perfect fluffiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors, enhancing the sweetness of the cake.
• 3 large eggs – Adds moisture and richness, making the cake soft and tender.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its lovely texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate.
• 1/4 cup water – Keeps the batter moist and helps blend the ingredients seamlessly.
For the Whipped Cream Filling
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – Creates a rich and airy frosting that elevates the cake.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream without being overly sugary.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the whipped cream.
For the Filling and Garnish
• 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries) – A burst of fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Chocolate shavings (optional) – Adds a touch of elegance and an extra cocoa kick.
• Fresh cherries (optional) – Great for garnishing, they provide a fresh and juicy contrast to the cake.
Gather these ingredients when you’re ready to try this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe, and prepare for an unforgettable baking experience!
How to Make Black Forest Cake Roll
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly. Let it heat up while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
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Prepare a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it. This will help your cake release easily once it’s baked, ensuring a smooth roll.
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Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Sifting helps blend the dry ingredients, ensuring a light and airy cake.
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Beat the eggs and granulated sugar in a separate large bowl until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cake’s fluffiness.
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Mix in the vanilla extract and water. Stir gently until combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined. Be gentle to maintain the airiness you’ve created—no need to overmix here!
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. A uniform layer helps the cake bake evenly.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. This ensures the cake is cooked through without drying out.
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Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar while the cake is baking. This will prevent it from sticking when you roll it later.
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Invert the baked cake immediately onto the prepared towel. This step is crucial for maintaining the cake’s shape during the rolling process.
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Remove the parchment paper carefully. This should be done while the cake is still warm to avoid breaking.
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Roll the cake up in the towel from one end and let it cool completely. This shapes the cake, making it ready for its delicious filling.
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Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form in a mixing bowl. This fluffy filling will complement the rich chocolate perfectly.
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Unroll the cooled cake gently. Take your time to ensure it doesn’t crack.
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Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. This allows you to roll it up without the filling spilling out.
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Spoon the cherry pie filling over the whipped cream, distributing it evenly for every bite to be bursting with flavor.
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Roll the cake back up carefully without the towel and place it seam-side down on a serving platter. This helps maintain its shape while serving.
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Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. It not only looks beautiful but adds a touch of sweetness.
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Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired for that extra indulgence!
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Slice and serve chilled, letting your guests revel in the delightful combination of flavors.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream for added decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Black Forest Cake Roll?
Imagine the sweet symphony of flavors and textures you can create alongside this show-stopping dessert.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and cherries, enhancing each bite’s flavor profile.
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Coffee or Espresso: A steaming cup perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the chocolate notes. Plus, it’s a great way to feel like you’re in a cozy café.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complement the decadent cake, making each mouthful a dreamy treat.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of silky chocolate ganache heightens the cocoa richness and adds an indulgent flair to the already luxurious dessert.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves sprinkled on top provide a burst of color and a hint of freshness, brightening up the overall flavor and presentation.
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Pistachio Crumble: The crunchy pistachio crumble adds a nutty contrast, creating a delightful textural element that pairs beautifully with the cake’s softness.
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Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine enhances the cherry notes in the cake, making it a sophisticated choice for a special gathering. The warmth of the wine complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Cake Roll
Room Temperature: Store the cake roll at room temperature for up to 1 day, keeping it covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the Black Forest Cake Roll, well-wrapped, for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and texture of the whipped cream and cherries.
Freezer: You can freeze the cake roll for up to 2 months. Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, to avoid freezer burn. Once you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this cake roll. Simply slice and serve it chilled, allowing you to savor the delightful layers of chocolate, cream, and cherries at their best!
Black Forest Cake Roll Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delicious cake roll your own with these fun swaps and additions!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Just ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.
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Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse the whipped cream with a splash of almond extract or a tablespoon of coffee liqueur for a unique, rich flavor twist.
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Berry Delight: Swap the cherry pie filling for mixed berries such as strawberries or raspberries for a fresh, tart contrast to the chocolate cake.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts, like hazelnuts or almonds, into the cake batter. It adds delightful texture and complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream for a vegan-friendly adaptation.
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Minty Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the whipped cream for a refreshing minty twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder into the cake batter for a warm, flavorful kick that surprises your taste buds.
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Decadent Fudge Sauce: Drizzle warmed chocolate fudge sauce over the rolled cake before serving for an indulgent, gooey addition that everyone will love.
By mixing and matching these variations, you can create a Black Forest Cake Roll that caters perfectly to your taste and dietary needs!
Make Ahead Options
These Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe components are perfect for meal prep, making your baking experience both fun and efficient! You can prepare the cake in advance and store it for up to 24 hours. Simply bake, cool, and wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. The whipped cream filling can be whipped and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick rewhip before spreading it on the cooled cake. When you’re ready to serve, simply unroll the cake, spread the filling, add the cherry pie filling, and roll it back up. This way, you can impress your guests with a stunning dessert while saving precious time—just as delicious, yet surprisingly effortless!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Black Forest Cake Roll, be sure to sift your dry ingredients to achieve a light and airy texture.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so fold the dry ingredients gently into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Use a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to help with rolling the cake and prevent it from sticking.
- Remember to monitor the baking time closely; the cake should spring back when lightly touched to ensure it’s perfectly baked and not dried out.
Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing cherries for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for plump, shiny fruits that are deep red and firm to the touch. Avoid cherries with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate overripeness or decay. If you’re using cherry pie filling, opt for a brand that uses whole cherries and minimal artifice for the best flavor.
How long can I store leftover Black Forest Cake Roll?
Very good question! You can keep your Black Forest Cake Roll in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure freshness, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will help maintain the whipped cream’s texture and the cake’s moisture without drying it out.
Can I freeze the Black Forest Cake Roll, and how should I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze your Black Forest Cake Roll, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gentle process helps maintain both flavor and texture.
What should I do if my cake cracks while rolling?
No worries, this can happen to the best of us! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t stress. You can gently press the edges together, and once filled, it will often hold its shape. Alternatively, if the crack is significant, you can cover it with whipped cream or chocolate shavings to hide imperfections, turning it into a rustic, delicious masterpiece!
Is there a dairy-free option for this Black Forest Cake Roll?
Very! To create a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping. For the eggs, consider using a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes) for binding. Make sure to check the labels on your cocoa powder and chocolate for dairy content, as some brands may contain milk powder. Enjoy your delightful, guilt-free indulgence!
Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries)
- Chocolate shavings optional
- Fresh cherries optional for garnishing
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Beat the eggs and granulated sugar in a separate large bowl until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and water.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar while the cake is baking.
- Invert the baked cake immediately onto the prepared towel.
- Remove the parchment paper carefully.
- Roll the cake up in the towel from one end and let it cool completely.
- Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled cake gently.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the whipped cream.
- Roll the cake back up carefully without the towel and place it seam-side down on a serving platter.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
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