Short Description
The Chocolate Cherry Swiss Roll is a decadent dessert that combines a light chocolate sponge cake with a luscious cherry filling and whipped cream, all rolled into a beautiful spiral. Topped with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries, this dessert is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Swiss roll offers a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and sweet-tart cherries, creating a flavor profile reminiscent of the classic Black Forest cake. The light and airy sponge cake pairs perfectly with the creamy filling, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s an elegant dessert that’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.
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Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
4 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling & Decoration:
1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh pitted cherries
2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (optional)
1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls
Fresh cherries for decoration
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Sift the cocoa powder over the egg mixture and gently fold until just combined.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Roll the Cake:
While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from the short end, roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assemble the Swiss Roll:
Unroll the cooled cake and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface. Distribute the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries over the whipped cream. If using, drizzle the cherry liqueur over the cherries.
Roll and Decorate:
Carefully re-roll the cake without the towel. Place the roll seam-side down on a serving platter. Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the Swiss roll for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to set. Slice and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Black Forest Twist: Add a layer of kirsch-soaked cherries for an authentic Black Forest flavor.
Chocolate Ganache Topping: Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the top for added indulgence.
Cream Cheese Filling: Replace the whipped cream with a cherry-infused cream cheese filling for a tangy contrast.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts over the whipped cream before rolling for added texture.
Fruit Variations: Substitute cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity flavor.
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Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store the Swiss roll in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: Not recommended, as reheating may affect the texture of the whipped cream and sponge cake.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, fresh pitted cherries can be used. Simply cook them with a bit of sugar to create a compote before using as a filling.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a towel dusted with powdered sugar helps prevent cracking.
Can I make this Swiss roll ahead of time?
Yes, the Swiss roll can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Is the cherry liqueur necessary?
No, the cherry liqueur is optional. It adds depth of flavor but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the shavings?
Absolutely. Dark, milk, or white chocolate shavings can be used based on your preference.
What can I use if I don’t have a jelly roll pan?
A rimmed baking sheet of similar size can be used as a substitute.
How long should I chill the Swiss roll before serving?
Chilling for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to meld and the roll to set properly.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts can be added for extra texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this roll gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can make a gluten-free version.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the leftover slices in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Cherry Swiss Roll is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweet-tart flavor of cherries. Its elegant appearance and delectable taste make it a perfect choice for special occasions or as a treat to indulge in any time.
Chocolate Cherry Swiss Roll
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Cherry Swiss Roll is an elegant and delicious dessert featuring a light chocolate sponge cake rolled with fluffy vanilla whipped cream and sweet cherry filling. Finished with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries, it’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:
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4 large eggs
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
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1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling & Decoration:
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1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh pitted cherries
-
2 tbsp cherry liqueur (optional)
-
1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls
-
Fresh cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang.
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Make the sponge cake:
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Beat eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
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Sift cocoa powder over the mixture and gently fold until just incorporated.
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Bake the cake:
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Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
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While still warm, carefully invert the cake onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. Remove parchment and roll the cake with the towel. Let cool completely.
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Prepare whipped cream:
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Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
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Assemble the roll:
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Unroll the cooled cake gently. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface.
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Dot with cherry pie filling and drizzle cherry liqueur if using.
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Carefully re-roll the cake (without the towel) into a log. Trim the ends.
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Decorate:
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Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries.
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Notes
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Use stabilized whipped cream if preparing in advance.
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For extra indulgence, brush the sponge with cherry syrup before filling.
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Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European