Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a heartwarming aroma!
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. This will help to eliminate any lumps and create a smooth batter.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter. Gently mix in the milk and vanilla extract until you have a smooth batter.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until set. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Roll the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and immediately roll it up with the parchment paper. Let it cool completely while it’s rolled.
Prepare the Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will create that delightful lush filling.
Unroll and Fill the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, unroll it carefully. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the surface and place the cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries) on top. Gently roll it back up.
Add the Topping: Spread the whipped cream over the top of the rolled cake and sprinkle with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries as a beautiful garnish.
Slice and Serve: Slice into portions and enjoy the rich flavors and textures as you dig into this delightful creation.
What to Serve Black Forest Cream Roll Cake With
This exquisite cake pairs wonderfully with various complementing dishes. For a perfectly balanced treat, consider serving it with a side of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A hot cup of coffee or a refreshing cherry soda can also enhance the flavors of your dessert. Whether you enjoy it after a delicious dinner or at an afternoon gathering, this cake will brighten any table!
Top Tips for Perfecting Black Forest Cream Roll Cake
To make your baking experience even better, try these tips! First, ensure your eggs are at room temperature; they whip up fluffier this way! If you want a slightly different flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the whipped cream. For the cake, make sure not to overmix the batter once you've added the dry ingredients; this will help keep it fluffy. Lastly, don't skip the cooling step; letting the cake cool as it rolls prevents cracks and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which may be hard to believe!), storing your Black Forest Cream Roll Cake is simple. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its delightful texture.
For freezing, wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you want to enjoy it warm, a brief visit in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds will do the trick. However, be sure not to let it become gooey, as the perfect form and texture are what you’re after!
Now, grab your ingredients and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful Black Forest Cream Roll Cake! Happy baking!