Classic Black Forest Swiss Roll: A Timeless Chocolate and Cherry Treat

Elevate your dessert game with this Classic Black Forest Swiss Roll. Featuring a tender chocolate sponge, velvety whipped cream filling, and juicy cherries, this dessert is beautifully rolled and finished with a decadent chocolate drizzle. It’s a crowd-pleaser for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence!

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
• Additional whipped cream for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Chocolate Sponge

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10×15-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Batter: Beat eggs and sugar together until pale and thick, about 5 minutes. Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt together, then fold gently into the egg mixture. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when lightly pressed.

2. Roll the Sponge

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

3. Prepare the Filling

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

4. Assemble the Swiss Roll

1. Spread the Filling: Unroll the cooled sponge and spread an even layer of whipped cream, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
2. Add Cherries: Scatter cherries over the whipped cream.
3. Re-roll the Cake: Roll the sponge back up tightly, but gently, and place it seam-side down on a serving platter. Refrigerate for 1 hour to set.

5. Decorate the Swiss Roll

1. Drizzle Chocolate: Pour melted chocolate over the roll, letting it cascade down the sides.
2. Garnish: Add dollops of whipped cream, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings for a stunning finish.

Tips for Success

• Roll While Warm: Rolling the sponge when it’s still warm prevents cracking.
• Even Filling: Spread the whipped cream and cherries evenly to ensure a balanced flavor in every slice.
• Chill for Clean Slices: Let the roll chill thoroughly before slicing for neat, clean cuts.

Storage

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

Variations

• Extra Chocolate: Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache on the sponge before adding the whipped cream.
• Berry Mix: Add raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Alcohol-Free: Use cherry preserves instead of kirsch for a family-friendly version.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

The Classic Black Forest Swiss Roll combines the elegance of a traditional Black Forest cake with the simplicity of a rolled dessert. Its rich chocolate flavor, creamy filling, and cherry topping make it a timeless favorite that’s always a hit.

Create this delicious Black Forest Swiss Roll today and enjoy a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!