Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm: A Decadent Dessert Delight

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
2. Beat eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter. Add the vanilla and melted butter, folding until just combined.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed.

Step 2: Roll the Cake

1. Prepare for rolling: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.
2. Invert the cake: Carefully invert the cake onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper.
3. Roll the cake: Starting from one end, roll the cake tightly in the towel, keeping it rolled as it cools. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. Mix cherries and sugar: If using fresh cherries, toss them with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream

1. Whip the cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 5: Assemble the Swiss Roll

1. Unroll the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, carefully unroll it from the towel.
2. Spread the filling: Evenly spread a layer of whipped cream over the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Spoon the cherry filling over the cream.
3. Roll it back up: Carefully roll the cake back up, starting from the end without filling. Use the towel to help guide it.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Wrap the rolled cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help it set.
2. Garnish: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar, and add chocolate shavings and extra cherries for decoration.

Conclusion

The Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm is a delightful dessert that brings together the best flavors of chocolate and cherries in a beautiful, elegant presentation.