Name: Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: German-Inspired
Ingredients: 6 large eggs, separated; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling or cooked Morello cherries; 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings (optional); 10 to 12 maraschino cherries or fresh cherries, for topping

A show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to slice as it is to savor, this Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll puts a stunning twist on the beloved German classic. With a moist chocolate sponge cake swirled with whipped cream and sweet-tart cherries, then topped with delicate rosettes and glossy cherries, this roll is a visual and flavorful masterpiece. It’s ideal for holidays, special occasions, or when you simply want to impress your guests (or yourself!).

Every bite of this roll is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate, airy cream, and bursts of cherry. Unlike the traditional layered cake version, this rolled beauty offers the same indulgent flavors in a more elegant, sliceable form. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to roulades, this guide will walk you through each step with tips and tools that ensure success.

Why You’ll Love This Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

Visually stunning: The spiral of dark chocolate cake and fluffy cream accented by ruby red cherries looks like it belongs in a pastry shop.
Lighter texture: The sponge cake keeps things soft and light, while still delivering that deep chocolate satisfaction.
Versatile occasion dessert: Perfect for holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or even just a cozy winter evening.
Make-ahead friendly: It holds up beautifully in the fridge and can be made a day in advance.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into baking, here are the essential tools that will make this cake roll easy and elegant:

Jelly Roll Pan (10×15-inch): Crucial for achieving the perfect thin layer of sponge cake. Don’t substitute with a larger pan, or your cake may crack when rolling.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures smooth removal of the cake.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Whips egg whites and cream into stiff peaks—vital for both the sponge structure and creamy filling.
Clean Kitchen Towel: Used to roll the cake while it’s still warm, setting it into shape without breaking.
Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading the whipped cream evenly without tearing the sponge.
Cooling Rack: Helps the cake cool evenly and avoids sogginess.

Taking a few minutes to prep your tools and workspace will help the entire process go smoothly and set you up for roulade success.

Ingredients for the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

Eggs: They form the structure of the sponge cake. Separating them ensures a light and airy texture when the whites are whipped.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps stabilize the whipped egg whites.
Cocoa Powder: Gives the sponge its rich chocolate flavor—use unsweetened for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides the necessary body without weighing down the sponge.
Baking Powder & Salt: Helps the cake rise evenly and enhances flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For that silky, cloud-like filling.
Powdered Sugar: Lightly sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
Cherry Pie Filling or Morello Cherries: The iconic fruity twist—choose good quality for bold cherry flavor.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Optional but recommended for a luxe, textured finish.
Maraschino Cherries or Fresh Cherries: For topping and that classic Black Forest look.

How To Make the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your jelly roll pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick. In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Whip Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks

In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the yolk mixture, then fold in the egg whites carefully to maintain the volume.

Step 3: Bake and Roll

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched. Immediately turn the cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Peel off parchment, then gently roll the cake in the towel. Let it cool completely.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 5: Fill and Re-Roll

Unroll the cooled cake. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, then spoon on cherry filling. Carefully roll it back up (without the towel this time), seam side down.

Step 6: Decorate and Chill

Frost the roll with more whipped cream. Top with maraschino cherries and dark chocolate shavings. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Elegant Dessert

Slice the roll with a sharp, serrated knife for the cleanest presentation. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor—this also makes it easier to slice.

To store, keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing once assembled, as whipped cream doesn’t freeze well. You can, however, freeze the sponge layer (rolled in parchment) before adding the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just pit and cook them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to make your own filling.

Why did my roll crack?

It’s likely the cake was overbaked or rolled when too cold. Roll it while still warm to avoid cracks.

Can I make this a day in advance?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

What if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?

You can try a 9×13 baking pan, but your sponge will be thicker, which may make rolling tricky.

How do I get sharp, clean slices?

Wipe your knife clean between each cut and use a serrated blade for best results.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Want More Cake Roll & Dessert Ideas?

If you’re in love with the swirled goodness of this roll, you’ll adore these other treats:

Brownie Refrigerator Cake for a fudgy, no-bake option.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you love cinnamon with cream.
Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for a nutty, buttery bite.
Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake when you crave deeper caramel notes.
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake for a zingy, fruity punch.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with fresh cherries or stick with classic pie filling? Maybe added a chocolate drizzle on top?

I’d love to see your version and help with any questions—let’s make baking beautiful together!