Nothing beats the delightful charm of a Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe when you want to impress friends or simply treat yourself to a slice of heaven. This dessert combines a fluffy, cocoa-infused sponge cake elegantly rolled with luscious whipped cream and vibrant cherry filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Rich chocolate, sweet-tart cherries, and light cream come together beautifully in this classic roll cake, making each bite a celebration of taste and indulgence. If you’re looking for a joyful baking project that ends in pure deliciousness, this Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe is exactly what you need on your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role – from creating the tender cocoa sponge to the creamy whipped filling that’s bursting with cherry goodness. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll gather to bring this dessert to life.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and lightness to the cake, giving it that airy sponge texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve the perfect sponge consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic background note to the cake batter.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor without overpowering.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: Creates fluffy, indulgent whipped cream filling and topping.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream delicately and dusts the cake for presentation.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the whipped cream): Enhances the cream’s flavor with subtle vanilla notes.
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries: Brings fruity brightness and a burst of color to each slice.
- 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (optional): Adds an adult twist and intensifies cherry flavor wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls: For a stunning, textured decoration on top of the roll.
- Fresh cherries for garnish: Completes the look with a fresh pop of red and natural sweetness.
How to Make Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This preparation is key to smooth rolling later on and ensures the cake bakes perfectly without any stress.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Sponge Batter
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar until the mixture is thick and pale, almost fluffy. This aeration is what makes the sponge light and tender. Then, gently stir in the vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder until everything is fully combined and smooth, giving you a luscious, chocolatey batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, spreading the surface gently for uniform baking. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, checking that it springs back lightly to the touch. This ensures the cake has baked enough to hold its shape but remains soft and pliable for rolling.
Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool just for a few minutes. Then invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment, and carefully roll the cake up with the towel, starting from the short end. Rolling while warm sets the cake in shape and prevents cracking when you add the filling later.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and the second teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will be your luscious filling and topping, delivering a smooth and creamy contrast to the cake’s tender crumb and tangy cherry filling.
Step 6: Assemble the Roll
Gently unroll the cooled cake and spread a thick, even layer of whipped cream over it, being careful to leave a small border around the edges to prevent spills. Then, spread the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries evenly over the cream. If you enjoy a little extra kick, drizzle the cherry liqueur on top for that luxurious flavor twist.
Step 7: Final Roll and Decoration
Roll the cake back up carefully without the towel this time, placing it seam-side down on your serving platter for a neat presentation. Use the remaining whipped cream to decorate the top, then sprinkle generously with chocolate shavings or curls and finish off with fresh cherries. This final step makes your Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe look as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cherries and chocolate shavings aren’t just beautiful; they add layers of flavor and texture that complement this dessert perfectly. A light dusting of powdered sugar or even a few mint leaves can also refresh the look and add a hint of aroma.
Side Dishes
Serve this roll cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream on the side. A light salad of mixed berries or citrus slices can also balance the richness and provide a vibrant contrast that delights the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, cut the roll into neat slices and arrange them on a cake stand or slate platter decorated with edible flowers or sprigs of fresh herbs. You can pipe extra whipped cream rosettes between slices for a refined touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator. Wrapped well, it stays fresh and moist for up to three days, maintaining its delightful flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the roll cake for up to one month. Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy it at its best.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer it closer to room temperature, let slices sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to soften the cream slightly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries offer a natural sweetness and a wonderful texture, but make sure to pit and slightly macerate them with a little sugar or cherry liqueur for the best flavor integration.
What can I substitute for cherry liqueur?
If you want to skip alcohol, try cherry juice or simply omit it. You could also add a dash of almond extract for a complementary nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries and chocolate.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
The key is rolling the cake while it’s still warm and pliable right after baking, using a powdered sugar-dusted towel. Cooling it completely rolled up helps set the shape, making it easier to fill and roll again without cracking.
Can I make the cake a day in advance?
Yes, you can bake and roll the cake a day ahead, keep it wrapped in the fridge, and add your whipped cream and cherry filling just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Use dairy-free whipping cream alternatives and a suitable sugar substitute. Cocoa powder and fresh cherries are naturally dairy-free, so this recipe can be adapted with ease to fit a dairy-free diet.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something elegant, decadent, and just pure joy in dessert form, the Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe is your go-to. It’s a wonderful combination of chocolatey richness, bright cherry flavors, and creamy indulgence that’s sure to become a beloved favorite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be your new celebration staple for birthdays, holidays, or any day you want to make extra special. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swiss
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Swiss Chocolate Cherry Roll Cake is a luscious dessert combining a light, cocoa-infused sponge cake rolled with whipped cream and sweet cherry filling. It features a delicate chocolate sponge baked to perfection, whipped cream frosting, and bursts of cherry flavor, finished with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for an elegant and delicious treat perfect for special occasions or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Filling and Topping
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
- 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or curls
- Fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes thick and pale. Then add the vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder, stirring until well combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the lined pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed, indicating it’s done.
- Roll the Cake: Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes. Then invert it onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up gently with the towel starting from the short end. Allow it to cool completely in this rolled position.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will be the luscious filling and topping for the cake.
- Fill the Cake: Unroll the cooled cake carefully and spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add Cherry Filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries evenly over the whipped cream layer. If desired, drizzle with cherry liqueur to enhance the flavor.
- Re-roll the Cake: Roll the cake back up without the towel, placing it seam-side down on a serving platter to maintain its shape.
- Decorate: Use any remaining whipped cream to decorate the top of the roll. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and garnish with fresh cherries for an elegant finish.
- Serve: Slice the roll cake and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to roll the cake while it’s still warm to prevent cracking.
- Use fresh or high-quality cherry pie filling for the best flavor.
- If you prefer, skip the cherry liqueur to make this recipe alcohol-free.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- For easier slicing, use a serrated knife and clean it between cuts.
