
Why Make This Recipe
The Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of black forest cake in a fun, rolled format. It’s not only visually appealing but also packed with rich chocolate and fresh cherry flavors. This cake is perfect for special occasions or to treat yourself on a regular day. Making it can be a fun activity, especially for those who love to bake, and it brings a slice of elegance to any table.
How to Make Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the egg mixture.
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream filling by whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before rolling it up with the parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely.
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread whipped cream over it, then add cherries on top.
- Roll the cake back up gently and place it seam-side down.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with additional whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
How to Serve Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake
Serve the Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake chilled. Slice it into rounds to show off the beautiful layers of chocolate cake, cream, and cherries. You can add extra whipped cream and more chocolate shavings on top for an extra special touch. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
How to Store Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake
If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to a month. Simply thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake
- Make sure to beat the eggs and sugar properly to get a fluffy texture in your cake.
- Be gentle when rolling and unrolling the cake to prevent cracks.
- Using fresh cherries adds a burst of flavor, but you can also use frozen cherries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw and drain before use.
Variation
You can experiment by adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the whipped cream for an adult version of this dessert. Alternatively, you could swap out the cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a different fruit option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator and enjoy the next day.
2. What if my cake cracks when rolling?
If the cake cracks, don’t worry! Use a bit more whipped cream to fill in the cracks when you roll it back up. It will still taste delicious!
3. Can I use a different type of cream?
Yes, you can use a store-bought whipped topping if you prefer a quicker option. Just make sure it’s firm enough to hold the roll together.

Vertical Black Forest Swiss Roll Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 4 large large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling and Garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved Fresh cherries add burst of flavor, can substitute with frozen ones.
- to taste Chocolate shavings For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla.
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the egg mixture.
Baking
- Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
Filling
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream filling by whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before rolling it up with the parchment paper. Allow it to cool completely.
Assembly
- Unroll the cooled cake and spread whipped cream over it, then add cherries on top.
- Roll the cake back up gently and place it seam-side down.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with additional whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
