Black Forest Swiss Roll

Black Forest Swiss Roll

When it comes to indulgent desserts, few can rival the sheer elegance of a Black Forest Swiss Roll. Imagine a rich chocolate sponge cake rolled tightly around luscious whipped cream and juicy cherries, topped with a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Doesn’t that sound simply divine? This delightful treat not only looks stunning but also brings together a symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds. Fun fact: The name “Black Forest” actually refers to a specific region in Germany known for its cherry production and traditional chocolate cakes. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to tea parties! Best of all, you can whip it up in under an hour, making it accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. If you enjoy the layered goodness of a classic tiramisu but are looking for something chocolatey and fruity, this Black Forest Swiss Roll will quickly become your new favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this show-stopping dessert!

What is Black Forest Swiss Roll?

So, you’re probably wondering, what exactly is a Black Forest Swiss Roll? Well, think of it as chocolate heaven rolled up in a delightful cake! But why is it named after the Black Forest, you ask? Legend has it that this delectable dessert was inspired by the ingredients from the region—a fusion of rich chocolate, fresh cherries, and whipped cream, just waiting to bring smiles to everyone at the table. After all, it might just prove that "the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!" Whether you’re trying this recipe for the first time or you’re a seasoned baker, there’s no harm in rolling up your sleeves for a bit of sweet fun in the kitchen. So why not give it a whirl?

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Swiss Roll

There are plenty of reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for the Black Forest Swiss Roll. First and foremost, the chocolate cake is incredibly light and fluffy, making every bite a delight. You won’t believe how simple and budget-friendly it is to create this luscious dessert at home! The use of tangy cherries and whipped cream elevates the flavors and adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate. Plus, unlike a traditional layered cake, which can be daunting for many bakers, this roll makes it easy to serve beautiful portions without the hassle. If you’re a fan of layered cakes, you might also want to check out our classic red velvet cake to explore even more delicious options. Now go grab those cherries and chocolate because it’s time to roll into a world of flavor!

How to Make Black Forest Swiss Roll

Quick Overview

Creating a Black Forest Swiss Roll is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying! From baking the velvety chocolate cake to rolling it with cream and cherries, each step is a joy. In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a gorgeous dessert ready to impress, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself.

Key Ingredients for Black Forest Swiss Roll

Here’s what you’ll need to create this indulgent dessert:

• For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
  • 80g (2/3 cup) all-purpose flour
  • 30g (1/4 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • A pinch of salt

• For the Filling:

  • 200ml (1 cup) heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 250g (about 1 cup) cherries (fresh or jarred)

• For the Ganache Topping:

  • 100g (1/2 cup) dark chocolate
  • 50ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray (about 10×15 inches) with parchment paper.

2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until it’s thick and pale. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold it into the egg mixture until combined.

3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter onto the prepared tray, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

4. Cool the Cake: While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Once the cake is out of the oven, carefully invert it onto the towel and remove the parchment paper. Roll the cake with the towel while it’s still warm, and let it cool completely.

5. Prepare the Filling: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the prepared cherries, reserving a few for decoration.

6. Fill and Roll the Cake: Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently. Spread the whipped cream and cherry mixture evenly over the cake, leaving some space at the edges. Roll the cake back up tightly without the towel.

7. Make the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.

8. Final Touch: Drizzle the ganache over the rolled cake and garnish with additional cherries. Slice and serve!

What to Serve Black Forest Swiss Roll With

The rich flavors of Black Forest Swiss Roll are perfectly complemented by a variety of side dishes. Try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast, or serve alongside fresh fruit salads that cut through the richness. A warm cup of coffee or a light cup of tea also pairs beautifully with this dessert, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or post-dinner treats.

Top Tips for Perfecting Black Forest Swiss Roll

• Eggs Matter: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help the cake rise better.
• Avoid Dry Cake: Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to keep the cake moist and springy.
• Chill the Cream: Using cold cream will help it whip better and hold its shape.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though they are unlikely!), store the Black Forest Swiss Roll in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it will last in the freezer for around a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator and savor the flavors once more!

Now, it’s time for you to embark on this sweet adventure and create your very own Black Forest Swiss Roll at home! Happy baking!

Black Forest Swiss Roll

Indulge in a rich chocolate sponge cake rolled with whipped cream and cherries, topped with chocolate ganache, creating a visually stunning and delicious dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine: European, German

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake

• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs Make sure they are at room temperature.
• 100 g 100g granulated sugar
• 80 g 80g all-purpose flour
• 30 g 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp 1 tsp baking powder
• a pinch of salt A pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 200 ml 200ml heavy whipping cream Chill before whipping.
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 250 g 250g cherries Fresh or jarred.

For the Ganache Topping

• 100 g 100g dark chocolate
• 50 ml 50ml heavy cream

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray (about 10x15 inches) with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until it’s thick and pale. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then gently fold it into the egg mixture until combined.

Baking

1. Pour the batter onto the prepared tray, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. While the cake is baking, prepare a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Once the cake is out of the oven, carefully invert it onto the towel and remove the parchment paper. Roll the cake with the towel while it’s still warm, and let it cool completely.

Filling and Final Assembly

1. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the prepared cherries, reserving a few for decoration.
2. Once the cake is cool, unroll it gently. Spread the whipped cream and cherry mixture evenly over the cake, leaving some space at the edges. Roll the cake back up tightly without the towel.
3. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
4. Drizzle the ganache over the rolled cake and garnish with additional cherries. Slice and serve!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for around a month and thawed in the refrigerator before serving.