Name: Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting the towel); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped cherries (fresh or jarred); 2 tablespoons kirsch or cherry juice (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon butter; Whipped cream (optional, for piping); Whole cherries; Chocolate curls or shavings

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There is something truly magical about this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe that captures the essence of classic Black Forest cake while giving it an elegant, fun twist. Imagine a soft, moist chocolate sponge cake rolled delicately with a luscious cherry whipped cream filling that bursts with fruity freshness and just a hint of kirsch. Topped with a glossy chocolate ganache and crowned with whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate curls, this dessert is an irresistible showstopper that’s as delightful to make as it is to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver pot contains a mix of deep red cherries, some whole and some sliced, laying in a small pool of red juice. On top of the cherries, there is a small pile of white granulated sugar. In the background, on a white marbled surface, there is a small white wooden board with bunches of whole cherries, dark red and shiny with green stems and leaves attached. Part of a white and black striped cloth is visible in the upper left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the very first step to creating this spectacular dessert. Each item is simple and accessible, yet essential for building up the flavors, textures, and rich colors that make this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe so unforgettable.

4 large eggs: Provide structure and a light, airy sponge texture that holds the roll beautifully.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create that tender crumb in the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, comforting aroma and depth to both cake and filling.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the cake’s structure, keeping it soft yet sturdy.
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Essential for that rich chocolate flavor and dark hue.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides a gentle lift, ensuring the cake is light and spongy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting the towel): Prevents the cake from sticking when rolling.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection to make the luscious filling.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream filling without overpowering.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds extra flavor to the filling for a creamy finish.
1/2 cup chopped cherries (fresh or jarred): Bursting with juicy sweetness, providing the iconic Black Forest touch.
2 tablespoons kirsch or cherry juice (optional): Injects an authentic cherry kick, marrying all elements harmoniously.
1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache): Creates the smooth, glossy chocolate coating that’s pure indulgence.
4 ounces dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped: The rich heart of the ganache, providing intense chocolate flavor.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds shine and silkiness to the ganache finish.
Whipped cream (optional, for piping): Adds decorative flair and extra creaminess on top.
Whole cherries: For garnish, bringing freshness and visual appeal.
Chocolate curls or shavings: Elegant finishing touch with a subtle crunch.

How to Make Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan ready by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light grease to ensure your cake won’t stick. Proper prep here means a smooth baking experience for a perfectly even sponge.

Step 2: Whip Up the Sponge Cake Batter

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this aeration is what will give the sponge its delicate, airy characteristic. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm hint of flavor.

Meanwhile, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure an even distribution without lumps. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to overmix, which could toughen the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour your smooth batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a light touch causes the cake to spring back—this quick bake keeps the sponge soft and pliable for rolling.

Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm

This step is key to avoid cracks. Immediately after baking, turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up inside the towel, starting from one short edge. This cooling technique helps the cake “train” itself into the rolled shape perfect for filling later.

Step 5: Prepare the Cherry Whipped Cream Filling

Beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, ensuring a fluffy and stable filling. Fold in the chopped cherries and kirsch or cherry juice if using, giving the cream that iconic Black Forest burst of flavor and texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake Roll

Unroll the cooled cake carefully, spread an even layer of the cherry whipped cream all over the surface, then roll it back up gently without the towel. Position the roll seam-side down on your serving plate for a neat presentation, keeping all those beautiful layers intact.

Step 7: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream just until it starts to simmer, then pour it over the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir slowly until you reach a smooth, glossy ganache with a luscious texture that will coat the cake perfectly.

Step 8: Decorate and Chill

Drizzle the ganache over the cake roll with a spoon or spatula, letting it cascade beautifully down the sides. Garnish with piped whipped cream, whole cherries, and chocolate curls to add that final touch of elegance. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let everything set beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe

The image shows a sliced chocolate roll cake with three visible layers spiraled inside: a dark brown chocolate cake layer, a thick white cream filling, and the chocolate cake layer again, all rolled together. The outside is covered with smooth white cream and shiny dark chocolate glaze dripping down the sides. On top, there are white cream swirls each topped with a bright red cherry and curled dark chocolate decorations. The cake is placed on a wooden board with some chocolate curls scattered around. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The garnishes are the crowning glory of this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe. Fresh whole cherries lend a pop of color and a juicy bite, while chocolate curls provide texture and sophistication. Piped whipped cream adds a cloud-like softness that invites you in for the first delicious forkful.

Side Dishes

This cake roll pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream can make the experience even more indulgent. For a lighter approach, fresh berries or a cup of freshly brewed coffee complement the rich chocolate and cherry flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the cake roll into neat rounds for an elegant dessert platter. You can also serve individual portions in clear glasses layered with extra cherries and whipped cream for a dazzling parfait effect. For parties, place the roll on a beautiful cake board and surround it with festive edible flowers or chocolate shards for a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, keep the Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain its freshness for up to 3 days, letting the flavors meld even more deliciously.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake roll wrapped well in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing to maximize flavor and softness without melting the ganache or cream.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well as long as you thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture in the filling, which could make the whipped cream runny.

Is kirsch necessary for the Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe?

Kirsch adds an authentic cherry brandy flavor, but if you prefer to skip alcohol, cherry juice is a fantastic substitute that keeps the vibrant cherry essence intact.

What chocolate is best for the ganache?

Dark or semi-sweet chocolate is ideal because it balances the sweetness of the cake and filling while providing a rich, glossy finish that’s not overly sweet.

How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolled?

Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to help it hold shape are key tricks to prevent cracking and make rolling easier.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free alternatives for the heavy cream and butter, and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free too. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste amazing.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Black Forest Cake Roll Recipe enough if you’re looking for a dessert that’s impressive yet surprisingly approachable. Its combination of silky chocolate, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream is a timeless crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to the table every single time. Give it a try and watch your guests swoon with every bite!