Chocolate Cherry Roulade

A Chocolate Cherry Roulade is a decadent, elegant dessert that combines rich chocolate sponge cake with a sweet cherry filling and a smooth whipped cream. It’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s! Here’s a simple recipe to make this indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cherry preserves or fresh cherries, pitted and chopped (or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese or cream cheese (optional for richness)

For Garnishing:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh cherries or chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the vanilla extract and whisk in the oil.
• In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
• Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool slightly before turning it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
• Carefully peel off the parchment paper and, using the towel, roll the cake up into a log. Let it cool completely in the towel.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• If you’re using mascarpone or cream cheese, gently fold it into the whipped cream for extra richness and stability.
• Gently fold in the cherry preserves or fresh cherries (chopped) until evenly distributed.

3. Assemble the Roulade:

• Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it and spread the whipped cream and cherry mixture evenly over the surface of the cake.
• Gently re-roll the cake, starting from the short end, being careful not to tear the sponge.
• Transfer the roulade to a serving plate and dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings, if desired.

4. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the roulade for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and set.
• Slice and serve chilled for the perfect indulgence!

This Chocolate Cherry Roulade is a delightful combination of rich chocolate, creamy filling, and the sweetness of cherries, making it an unforgettable dessert for any festive occasion.