A Black Forest Swiss roll is a stunning dessert that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the sweetness of cherries and the lightness of whipped cream. The slice in the image shows a beautifully rolled chocolate sponge filled with fluffy cream and cherry filling, topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and glossy cherries. This dessert is elegant, festive, and perfect for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want something impressive yet comforting.
This rolled version of the classic Black Forest cake offers all the flavors you love—chocolate, cream, and cherries—in a lighter, easier-to-serve form. The sponge is soft and flexible, the cream is smooth and airy, and the cherries add sweetness and vibrant color.
Ingredients
For the chocolate sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 1½ cups whipped cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or cherry compote
For topping:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh or maraschino cherries
- Chocolate shavings
- Chocolate ganache (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Add vanilla extract.
Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cake springs back when touched.
Step 2: Roll the Cake While Warm
Place a clean kitchen towel on the counter and dust it generously with powdered sugar. Carefully flip the warm cake onto the towel. Peel off the parchment paper.
Roll the cake gently with the towel and let it cool completely. This prevents cracking later.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Set aside the cherry filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Swiss Roll
Unroll the cooled cake. Spread the whipped cream evenly across the surface. Add spoonfuls of cherry filling along the cream. Gently roll the cake back up without squeezing too tightly.
Place the roll seam-side down on a tray.
Step 5: Decorate
Top the roll with whipped cream swirls, cherries, chocolate shavings, and optional chocolate ganache. Refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing.
Texture and Flavor
This dessert offers three luxurious textures in one bite: soft sponge, creamy filling, and juicy cherries. The chocolate cake is light yet full of flavor, providing the perfect base for the rich cream inside. The cherry filling adds sweetness and a delicious contrast to the chocolate.
The topping—whipped cream and chocolate shavings—adds elegance and enhances the classic Black Forest flavor. Each slice looks beautiful, making it perfect for special occasions.
Tips for Best Results
Beat the eggs and sugar thoroughly to achieve a fluffy sponge. Fold the dry ingredients gently to keep the batter airy. Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking.
Use cold heavy cream to whip for stable peaks. Spread the filling evenly but not too thick to avoid overflow when rolling.
Refrigerate the finished roll before slicing to ensure clean cuts and firm layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices with:
- Extra cherries
- Chocolate drizzle
- Light dusting of cocoa
- Fresh whipped cream
This roll is perfect for birthdays, holidays, tea parties, and festive gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or cold milk.
Variations
This recipe can be adapted easily:
- Add chocolate chips to the filling for extra texture
- Add kirsch (cherry liqueur) for a classic Black Forest flavor
- Use raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries
- Add mascarpone to the whipped cream for richness
- Replace whipped cream with chocolate mousse
For a lighter version, use yogurt whipped cream.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers for up to three days in an airtight container. The cake stays moist from the cream and cherries. Avoid freezing, as whipped cream can lose its texture when thawed.
Why This Recipe Works
This Black Forest Swiss roll works because it takes a traditional cake and makes it easier, lighter, and visually stunning. The combination of soft chocolate sponge, creamy filling, and juicy cherries creates a balanced dessert that’s both rich and refreshing.
The rolled presentation makes each slice elegant, with a swirl of cream and cherry filling that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate cake. The toppings add visual appeal and enhance the flavor.
This dessert is impressive yet simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced bakers.