Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper.
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar together in a bowl until they become pale and slightly thickened.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, then add the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
- In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the batter, taking care not to deflate the air you’ve just incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when lightly touched.
- Remove the sponge from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper.
- Carefully roll the sponge up in the towel while it is still warm, and let it cool completely.
The Black Forest Filling: Cherries & Whipped Cream
What makes the Black Forest flavor so irresistible is the combination of dark, sweet cherries and fluffy whipped cream. To get that perfect cherry-infused filling, you can use either fresh cherries or jarred Morello cherries (for a more intense, tangy flavor). You’ll also need a generous helping of whipped cream, and for added depth, a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur) if you want to keep the Black Forest theme true to its origins.
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry preserves or fresh cherries, chopped
- 1 tbsp kirsch (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish)
Directions:
- Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- Prepare the cherries: If using fresh cherries, chop them into small pieces. If using jarred cherries, drain them well and slice them. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of kirsch to the cherries to enhance the Black Forest flavor.
- Assemble the Swiss roll: Once the sponge has cooled, unroll it carefully from the towel. Spread a layer of cherry preserves over the surface, leaving about an inch around the edges. Then, spoon a generous layer of whipped cream on top, and scatter the chopped cherries evenly over the cream.
- Roll it up: Gently roll the sponge back into its original shape, using the towel to help guide it if necessary. Be gentle so as not to crack the sponge.
- Chill the roll: Place the finished Swiss roll on a serving platter, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Finishing Touches: The Black Forest Look
The key to a Black Forest-inspired dessert is the finishing touches. Once chilled, you can give your Swiss roll a beautiful, signature look with chocolate shavings, more whipped cream, and cherries on top.
- Decorate: Once your Swiss roll has chilled, spread a light layer of whipped cream on top and around the sides. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
- Add cherries: Place a few whole cherries or a few more chopped cherries on top of the roll for that quintessential Black Forest look.
Serving and Enjoying
To serve, slice the Swiss roll into neat portions, revealing the delicate spiral of cocoa sponge, whipped cream, and juicy cherries. The contrast of the tender sponge with the tangy, sweet cherries and rich cream creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks impressive on any occasion.
A Delicious Fusion
This Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is a gorgeous way to celebrate the best of both worlds: the elegance of a Swiss roll paired with the iconic, decadent flavor profile of the Black Forest cake. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or just indulging yourself, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something rich, sweet, and utterly irresistible.
So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy every bite!
