Indulge in the luxurious layers of this Elegant Chocolate Forest Cake, featuring a rich chocolate sponge rolled with sweet cherry filling and airy whipped cream. This dessert promises to be a showstopper at any gathering, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of elegance in their sweets.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cherry Filling:
– 2 cups pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon water
For the Whipped Cream Filling:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
– Additional cherries, for decoration
– Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for dusting
Directions:
1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and pale, about 5 minutes.
– In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
– Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
2. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
– In a saucepan, combine the pitted cherries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the cherries release their juices and soften.
– Mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it into the cherry mixture. Cook until thickened, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. Make the Whipped Cream Filling:
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake:
– Once the chocolate cake has cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface.
– Spoon the cooled cherry filling over the whipped cream layer.
– Starting from one short end, carefully roll up the cake, using the parchment paper to help lift and roll.
– Transfer the roll cake to a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
5. Garnish and Serve:
– Before serving, garnish the roll cake with additional cherries and chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder.
– Slice and serve for an elegant and indulgent dessert.
Enjoy this exquisite chocolate forest roll cake, perfect for any special occasion or simply as a treat!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Notes:
To make the rolling process easier, use a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent the cake from sticking.
If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Refrigerating the cake roll helps it maintain its shape and makes slicing easier.
Cook techniques-FAQ:
Q: Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, you can use canned cherries. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the sugar in the filling if the canned cherries are already sweetened.
Q: How can I prevent the cake from cracking while rolling?
A: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar can help prevent cracking.
Q: Can I make this cake a day ahead?
A: Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and garnish just before serving.
Conclusion:
The Elegant Chocolate Forest Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Its rich, tender chocolate sponge, combined with the sweetness of cherry filling and the lightness of whipped cream, brings a perfect balance of flavors. This cake is sure to be a hit at your next event, offering a touch of sophistication and indulgence.
More recipes suggestions and combination:
For a variation, you can try a similar roll cake using strawberries instead of cherries, or experiment with different fillings like raspberry or apricot. Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream for an enhanced dessert experience. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor. Explore other elegant desserts like a classic Black Forest Cake or a French Buche de Noel for more sophisticated options. Happy baking!
