Chocolate cake and cherries are a match made in dessert heaven, and this Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll is proof. It wraps all the luscious flavors of the traditional German gateau into a soft, light sponge rolled around sweet cherries and whipped cream. Not only does it taste divine, but it’s also a showstopper dessert perfect for special occasions.

Unlike traditional layer cakes, this roll is light and airy while still feeling rich and indulgent. The contrast between the moist chocolate sponge and the tart cherry filling, all swirled together with clouds of whipped cream, makes every bite a celebration. It looks like it came from a high-end bakery but is very achievable in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

This cake roll is surprisingly simple to make but always earns praise. It’s rich without being too heavy, thanks to the sponge texture. The whipped cream keeps things light, while the cherries add brightness and color. It can be made ahead of time and even freezes well, making it great for entertaining or gifting.

What Kind of Cherries Should I Use?

You can use jarred morello cherries, canned cherry pie filling, or even make your own cherry compote if you’re feeling ambitious. Just make sure the cherries are not overly wet or syrupy—you want some moisture but not enough to soak the sponge.

Ingredients for the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

To make this cake roll truly elegant, each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. Keep things simple but high quality for the best results.

Eggs: They create the structure and fluffiness of the sponge.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the eggs when whipped.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides the necessary structure.
Cocoa Powder: Gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor.
Baking Powder: A little lift to keep the sponge airy.
Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Adds aroma and depth.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Fluffy, rich filling that holds the roll together.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and is perfect for dusting.
Pitted Cherries: The star of the show, offering tartness and color.
Chocolate Shavings: Optional but makes the final look extra elegant.

How To Make the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge

Preheat your oven and line a jelly roll pan with parchment. Beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Gently fold in the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt—followed by the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Bake and Roll

Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake until springy to the touch. While warm, invert onto a towel dusted with powdered sugar and gently roll it up to cool. This prevents cracking later.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Chill until ready to use.

Step 4: Fill and Roll

Unroll the cooled cake, spread a generous layer of whipped cream, then top with the cherries. Roll it back up carefully, seam-side down.

Step 5: Decorate

Dust with more powdered sugar or cocoa and scatter chocolate shavings on top for a bakery-worthy finish.

How to Serve and Store the Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll

This cake feeds 8 to 10 people comfortably. It’s best served chilled, letting the whipped cream firm up slightly in the fridge. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it (before decorating) by wrapping it tightly in plastic and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve With the Cake Roll?

Hot Coffee or Espresso

The rich bitterness complements the sweetness of the cake.

Fresh Berries

A light and tart pairing to balance out the indulgence.

Cherry Liqueur

Add a small sip on the side to enhance the cherry notes in the dessert.

Vanilla Ice Cream

If you want to go all out, a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds extra creaminess.

Whipped Cream

Serve with a bit more whipped cream on the side for a classic look.

Sweet Red Wine

Something like a Lambrusco or ruby Port pairs beautifully.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

Because more chocolate never hurts.

Want More Cake Ideas?

If you’re into decadent cakes like this, you’ll love exploring more dessert options on Life With Zoe:

Try the rich and nutty Butter Pecan Cheesecake for something extra cozy.
Get nostalgic with Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake.
For a lighter treat, check out the fruity charm of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls.
Go tropical with White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles.
Or serve brunch with a twist with the Carrot Pound Cake that doubles as dessert.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or skip it? Chocolate curls or dusted cocoa?

I love seeing your creations and hearing what worked (or didn’t). Got a question? Drop it below and let’s make your baking easier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more desserts on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite go-to treat!

Conclusion

This Elegant Black Forest Cake Roll is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and presentation. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because, it’s sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and make every slice a little moment of joy.