𝗦𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗺 – 𝗔 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 & 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗶𝗲𝗰𝗲

### Instructions

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Sponge**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until thick, pale, and tripled in volume (about 5 minutes).
3. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt into the egg mixture. Gently fold to combine, taking care not to deflate the batter.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the sponge springs back when lightly touched.

#### **Step 2: Roll the Sponge**
1. While the cake is still warm, turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
2. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake tightly with the towel, starting from the short side. Let it cool completely in the rolled position.

#### **Step 3: Make the Cream Filling**
1. Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. If using kirsch, gently fold it into the whipped cream along with the chopped cherries.

#### **Step 4: Assemble the Swiss Roll**
1. Carefully unroll the cooled sponge and spread the cream filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Roll the cake back up tightly, using the towel to guide you if needed. Transfer to a serving plate, seam-side down.

#### **Step 5: Decorate the Roll**
1. Top the roll with whole cherries and a sprinkle of grated chocolate.
2. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle with chocolate ganache before serving.

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### Tips for the Perfect Chocolate & Cherry Swiss Roll

– **Room Temperature Ingredients**: Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for maximum volume.
– **Handle with Care**: Roll the sponge gently to prevent cracks, though a few minor ones can be covered with decorations.
– **Use Quality Chocolate**: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate.
– **Make Ahead**: Prepare the roll a day in advance for the flavors to meld beautifully.

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### Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tender chocolate sponge, creamy whipped filling, and sweet cherries is a timeless pairing that’s hard to beat. The kirsch adds a subtle boozy note that enhances the cherries, while the grated chocolate brings a touch of elegance. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the simplicity of a Swiss roll and the indulgence of a Black Forest cake.

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### Conclusion

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this **Swiss Roll Meets Black Forest Charm** dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its balance of rich chocolate, light cream, and vibrant cherries creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. So, roll up your sleeves (and your sponge) and create this chocolate and cherry masterpiece—it’s a slice of heaven in every bite!