Chocolate Cherry Roll Recipe With Rich Cocoa And Fresh Cherries

Name: Chocolate Cherry Roll
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 1 h 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; – 1/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder; – 1 teaspoon baking powder; – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 4 eggs; – 1/2 cup granulated sugar; – 2 tablespoons melted butter; – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; – 8 ounces fresh red cherries, stemmed and pitted; – 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; – 1 tablespoon lemon juice; – 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; – Pinch of salt; – 4 cups powdered sugar; – 1 teaspoon almond extract

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Roll

Imagine unwinding after a long day with a slice of something that’s easy to whip up and packed with flavor sound like a dream? This Chocolate Cherry Roll brings together the best of rich cocoa and fresh cherries in a dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, even if you’re new to baking. You’ll appreciate how quick it comes together, thanks to straightforward steps that fit into busy routines, while delivering a treat that’s full of health perks like antioxidants from cherries and the uplifting vibes from dark chocolate.

Not only is this recipe a breeze for first-timers, it adapts to different lifestyles, making it a hit for everyone from busy parents to health-focused folks. Picture sharing this delightful roll at family gatherings or quiet evenings, creating memories with every bite of its unique cherry-chocolate blend. Let’s dive into what makes this Chocolate Cherry Roll a go-to favorite for home cooks everywhere.

Health Benefits and Ease of Preparation

For those watching their diet, this Chocolate Cherry Roll shines with antioxidant-rich cherries that support heart health and dark chocolate elements that can boost your mood. It’s perfect for busy schedules, requiring just about 15 minutes of prep and 11 minutes of baking, so you can enjoy it without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re a student juggling classes or a working professional needing a quick dessert, this recipe keeps things simple yet satisfying.

And don’t forget its versatility swap ingredients for vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie versions to suit your needs. Have you ever found a dessert that feels indulgent and good for you at the same time? That’s the magic of this Chocolate Cherry Roll!

Learn more about the health benefits of cherries

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Roll
2. Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Roll
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chocolate Cherry Roll: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chocolate Cherry Roll
5. Mastering Chocolate Cherry Roll: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Chocolate Cherry Roll: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cherry Roll
8. Chocolate Cherry Roll

Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Roll

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a perfect Chocolate Cherry Roll, and you’ll love how basic pantry staples come together for big flavors. This section lists everything you need, divided clearly for the chocolate cake and cherry buttercream, so you can shop and prepare with ease. Remember, using fresh, quality items like dark cocoa powder and ripe cherries makes all the difference in the final taste.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Cake

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for the Cherry Buttercream

8 ounces fresh red cherries, stemmed and pitted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Pinch of salt
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract

These measurements ensure your Chocolate Cherry Roll turns out just right, with a light cake and creamy filling. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, we’ll cover that later, but for now, stick to these for the best results.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chocolate Cherry Roll: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to roll up your sleeves and make this Chocolate Cherry Roll? Follow this easy guide, and you’ll have a stunning dessert in no time. We’ll break it down into simple steps, starting with prepping your oven and ending with chilling the final product. It’s fun and straightforward, even if baking isn’t your everyday thing what’s better than turning basic ingredients into something special?

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an extra inch on the long sides for easy lifting.
Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
In a mixer, whip the eggs and granulated sugar for 1 minute until thick. Add melted butter and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Slowly add the flour mixture and mix on low until blended.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 11 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched. Remove and quickly lift the cake with parchment onto a flat heat-safe surface. Roll the cake with the parchment from a short end while warm. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the cherry buttercream by cooking the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling and juices are released, about 8-10 minutes, mashing cherries occasionally.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing to extract about one-third cup of juice. Refrigerate the juice until fully cooled.
Beat the butter and salt on high for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed, then whip at high speed until light and fluffy. Add the cooled cherry juice and almond extract, whipping for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Once the cake is cool, unroll carefully onto a flat surface. Spread a 1/2-inch thick layer of the cherry buttercream evenly, leaving a 1/2-inch border on the edges. Re-roll gently, removing the parchment fully. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Before serving, unwrap, place on a serving dish, dust with powdered sugar, and optionally top with extra buttercream and fresh cherries. Slice and serve.

This process takes about 15 minutes of prep, 11 minutes of baking, and at least an hour for cooling and chilling, totaling around 1.5 hours. Have you tried rolling a cake before? It’s easier than it sounds and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chocolate Cherry Roll

One of the best parts about this Chocolate Cherry Roll is how flexible it is adapt it to fit your lifestyle without losing that amazing taste. Whether you’re going vegan, cutting gluten, or watching calories, small swaps can make a big difference. Let’s explore some ideas that keep this dessert enjoyable for all, from busy parents to health-conscious eaters.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Use flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg replacement for a vegan version.
Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine to maintain moisture and flavor.
For gluten-free baking, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can replace all-purpose flour without sacrificing texture.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
Use cherry preserves or fresh fruit sauces as alternatives to fresh cherries during off-season.
Adjust sweetness by replacing sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
Adapt the recipe for allergies by avoiding nuts and opting for seed-based flours if necessary.

These changes let you enjoy your Chocolate Cherry Roll just the way you like it. For instance, if you’re a baking enthusiast, try our triple chocolate cake recipe for more inspiration on gluten-free options.

Mastering Chocolate Cherry Roll: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Chocolate Cherry Roll to the next level with these pro tips and creative twists. Whether you’re experimenting with flavors or perfecting your technique, these ideas will help you impress friends and family. Imagine adding a personal touch that makes this dessert truly yours it’s all about having fun in the kitchen.

Whip egg whites separately for a lighter texture and fold them into the batter carefully to retain air.
Experiment with adding orange zest or a splash of almond extract to complement the chocolate and cherry flavors.
Dust the finished roll with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant look.
Prepare the roll the day before, wrap tightly, and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld; bring to room temperature before serving.
Cherry pie filling or jam can replace fresh cherries if out of season without the cooking step.
Frozen cherries may be used but results may vary; cake flour can substitute all-purpose flour using 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons per cup.
Roll the cake gently while warm to avoid cracking, and decorate with powdered sugar or fresh cherries just before serving to maintain freshness.

For more dessert ideas, check out our chocolate peanut butter poke cake, which pairs chocolate flavors beautifully.

How to Store Chocolate Cherry Roll: Best Practices

Keeping your Chocolate Cherry Roll fresh is key to enjoying it later, and it’s simpler than you might think. Proper storage helps maintain that soft texture and vibrant flavor, so let’s cover the essentials for refrigeration, freezing, and more. This way, you can make it ahead for meals or snacks without any hassle.

Storage Method	Duration	Tips
Refrigeration	Up to 3 days	Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
Freezing	Up to 2 months	Wrap securely in foil and store in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating	N/A	Warm slices in the microwave or oven to revive softness.

Portion the roll before freezing for convenient servings, making meal prep a breeze. Wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to three days, as per our preparation time notes.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cherry Roll

How do I make a chocolate cherry roll from scratch?

To make a chocolate cherry roll from scratch, start by preparing a chocolate sponge cake batter using flour, cocoa powder, sugar, eggs, and baking powder. Bake the batter in a rectangular pan, then immediately roll it in a clean kitchen towel sprinkled with powdered sugar to shape while warm. For the filling, combine pitted cherries (fresh or preserved) with whipped cream or cream cheese and mix with a bit of sugar. Once the cake has cooled, unroll it, spread the cherry filling evenly, and gently roll it back up. Chill before slicing to help the roll hold its shape.

Can I use frozen cherries for the chocolate cherry roll filling?

Yes, frozen cherries work well for the filling. Thaw them completely and drain any excess juice to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. You can lightly chop the cherries or leave them whole, depending on your texture preference. Toss the cherries with a small amount of sugar and, if desired, a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor, before folding them into whipped cream or cream cheese. This approach maintains the fruity taste while ensuring the filling stays thick and creamy.

How can I prevent the chocolate roll cake from cracking when rolling?

To avoid cracking, it’s important to roll the cake while it’s still warm, just out of the oven. Immediately transfer the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar and roll it gently with the towel inside to shape. Let it cool completely in this rolled form before unrolling to add the filling. The warm cake is more pliable and less likely to break. Also, avoid overbaking the sponge, which can make it dry and prone to cracks.

What type of chocolate is best for the sponge cake in a chocolate cherry roll?

Using unsweetened or natural cocoa powder is ideal for the sponge cake because it provides a rich chocolate flavor without extra moisture, which helps maintain the cake’s light texture. You can use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, less acidic taste if preferred. Avoid using melted chocolate in the sponge batter since cocoa powder blends more evenly and results in a fluffy roll cake.

How long can a chocolate cherry roll be stored, and how should I keep it fresh?

A chocolate cherry roll stays fresh for up to 2-3 days when stored properly. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. This prevents the cake from drying out and preserves the cherry filling’s freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the wrapped roll for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the texture and flavor.

Chocolate Cherry Cake Roll Recipe with Rich Cocoa and Fresh Cherries