Name: Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups canned dark sweet cherries (drained and chopped or whole); 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

A classic dessert with a show-stopping twist, this Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll is rich, luscious, and absolutely irresistible. Imagine a soft chocolate sponge rolled with fluffy whipped cream and juicy dark cherries, all encased in a silky ganache glaze. It captures all the drama of the traditional Black Forest cake but with a more refined presentation that slices beautifully.

Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just want to treat yourself to something beautiful and indulgent, this cake roll delivers. The combination of chocolate, cream, and cherries never fails to impress, and when presented as a roll, it becomes the perfect dessert centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

This cake roll is not just delicious, it’s elegant and manageable for home bakers. The sponge bakes quickly and rolls easily without cracking, and the whipped cream filling is light but rich enough to balance the cocoa base. Dark sweet cherries add moisture and tang, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it chills beautifully in the fridge, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert.

What Kind of Cherries Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, canned dark sweet cherries in syrup or kirsch-soaked cherries are ideal. They hold their shape better than fresh cherries and offer a consistent, rich flavor that perfectly complements the whipped cream and chocolate. If you want a boozy twist, a splash of kirsch liqueur adds a traditional German touch.

Ingredients for the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

To make this stunning cake roll, you only need a handful of pantry staples and a few special ingredients that bring the dessert to life. Each ingredient has a clear role to play in the taste and texture.

Eggs: Provide structure and help the sponge rise with a light texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and stabilizes the whipped eggs.
All-purpose flour: Gives the cake its structure without weighing it down.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers a deep chocolate flavor essential for the sponge.
Baking powder: Helps the sponge rise evenly.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into a fluffy filling that complements the sponge.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without making it gritty.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth to both the cake and the filling.
Canned dark sweet cherries: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for layering.
Semi-sweet chocolate: Melted for the ganache topping.
Butter: Blended into the ganache for a smooth, glossy finish.

How To Make the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge

Preheat your oven and line a jelly roll pan with parchment. Whisk the eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Sift in the dry ingredients and gently fold to keep the mixture airy. Pour into the pan, spread evenly, and bake until the sponge springs back.

Step 2: Roll While Warm

Immediately turn the baked cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment and gently roll the cake with the towel inside. Let it cool completely in this shape to prevent cracking.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in chopped cherries or keep them whole, depending on your texture preference.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll

Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream mixture evenly. Add cherries across the surface. Carefully re-roll the cake, this time without the towel.

Step 5: Glaze with Ganache

Melt chocolate with butter until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then pour over the cake roll and spread to coat. Chill the roll to set the ganache before serving.

How to Serve and Store Your Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

This cake roll slices best when well chilled, revealing the gorgeous spiral of cream and cherries. It serves 8 to 10 people, making it a lovely option for dinner parties, birthdays, or holidays.

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make it ahead, you can prepare the sponge and freeze it, tightly wrapped, for up to one month. Assemble with cream and ganache the day you plan to serve it.

What to Serve With This Cake Roll?

Espresso or Coffee

The slight bitterness of strong coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy elements.

Cherry Kirsch Cocktail

Play up the cherry flavors with a simple kirsch-based drink to sip alongside.

Fresh Whipped Cream

A dollop on the side adds extra indulgence.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Cool and creamy, it balances the richness of the chocolate cake.

Dark Chocolate Shavings

Sprinkle on top for texture and an elegant finish.

Chocolate-Dipped Cherries

For presentation and an extra layer of cherry-chocolate delight.

Sparkling Rosé

Light and fruity, this wine contrasts beautifully with the dark cake.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re into classic flavors with a playful format, try these favorites from Janet Dishes:

Butter Pecan Pound Cake for a nutty, buttery treat.
Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake if you love layered richness.
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for fruity, creamy bliss in roll form.
Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze if you’re into spiced classics with sweet drizzles.
Ooey Gooey Butter Cake when you want something ridiculously soft and rich.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go traditional or add your own twist? Maybe a cherry jam layer or a splash of liqueur?

I love seeing your spins on these recipes. Ask questions, share tips, and help others bake their best too.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and desserts on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite delight!

Conclusion

The Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll brings all the decadence of a European classic into a lighter, more accessible form. It’s beautiful to serve, satisfying to eat, and full of contrast from dark chocolate, fluffy cream, and juicy cherries. If you’re looking for a dessert that wows but doesn’t stress you out, this is your go-to showstopper.