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Black Forest Roll Cake

A decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate, cream, and cherries into a mesmerizing roll, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 4 large eggs Provide structure and richness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar To sweeten the batter.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Keeps the cake light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds depth and chocolate flavor.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances sweetness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract For aromatic sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup warm water To blend ingredients smoothly.
For the Whipped Cream and Filling
  • 1 cup heavy cream Star of the whipped topping.
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar Helps sweeten the whipped cream.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract For flavor in the cream.
  • 1/2 cup cherry pie filling Classic tart contrast to chocolate.
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate Shaved or chopped for garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until thick, pale, and fluffy (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, alternating with warm water and vanilla extract until smooth.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the surface springs back when touched.
  2. Invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar and roll it up while warm, allowing to cool completely.
Filling
  1. As the cake cools, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  2. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream evenly, topping with cherry pie filling and dark chocolate shavings.
Assembly
  1. Roll the cake back up, remove the towel carefully, and transfer to a serving platter. Frost the exterior with leftover whipped cream, garnish, slice, and enjoy.

Notes

For best results, whisk the egg and sugar mixture until very light. Consider adding a splash of almond extract or using fresh cherries for garnish.