Heavenly Black Forest Roll Cake

1. Make the chocolate sponge cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, mixing gently.
   • In a small bowl, combine the milk and melted butter, then fold this into the batter.
   • Pour the batter onto the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed.
   • While the cake bakes, prepare a clean kitchen towel by dusting it with powdered sugar.
   • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven, and immediately invert it onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up with the towel. Let it cool completely.
2. Make the whipped cream filling:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
3. Make the cherry filling:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the fresh cherries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Assemble the roll cake:
   • Unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread an even layer of whipped cream on the inside of the cake, leaving a small border.
   • Spoon a few tablespoons of the cherry filling onto the whipped cream, spreading it lightly. Reserve some cherry filling for topping.
   • Carefully roll the cake back up, using the towel to guide it. Place the seam side down.
5. Decorate:
   • Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top of the roll cake.
   • Garnish with the remaining cherry filling, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings or curls.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the Heavenly Black Forest Roll Cake into thick slices and enjoy!

This Heavenly Black Forest Roll Cake 🍒🍫 is the perfect combination of light chocolate sponge, creamy whipped filling, and the tartness of cherries. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s sure to impress!