Cherry Chocolate Rolls: The Ultimate Easy Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Why Black Forest Rolls Are a Must-Try Dessert

There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and buttery dough. Last weekend, I decided to whip up a batch of Cherry Chocolate Rolls for my family, and let me tell you—it was a hit! The aroma of baked cocoa mingling with fresh cherries filled the kitchen, and everyone kept coming back for seconds. These rolls are like a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. If you love Black Forest cake but want something easier and more fun to make, these rolls are your answer!

The Story Behind These Scrumptious Rolls

Black Forest Cake hails from Germany, where it’s called Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte. It traditionally features layers of chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and cherries soaked in kirsch (a cherry brandy). While I adore the classic version, I wanted to create something simpler yet equally delightful. That’s how this recipe for Cherry Chocolate Rolls came to life. Instead of multiple layers, we roll everything into one delicious package. My kids call them “happy spirals” because they look so cheerful on the plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about balance—decadent chocolate meets tangy cherries in a soft, pillowy dough. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. The dough comes together quickly, and rolling it out feels almost therapeutic. Best of all? You can customize it to suit your taste. Want extra chocolate? Go for it! Prefer frozen cherries? They work too. Every bite bursts with flavor, making this a crowd-pleaser every time.

Perfect Occasions to Make Cherry Chocolate Rolls

These rolls shine at breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Imagine serving them at a holiday gathering—they pair beautifully with coffee or hot cocoa. They’re also great for potlucks, bake sales, or just as a weekend treat. Once, I brought these to a friend’s housewarming party, and they disappeared within minutes. Trust me; people won’t forget the person who brought these rolls!

Ingredients List

• For the dough:
• 250 ml milk
• 80 g butter
• 30 g of baked cocoa
• 430 g wheat flour Type 405
• 100 g of sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• Cube yeast 21 g
• 1 egg (medium size)
• Some flour to work
• For the filling:
• 500 g of fresh cherries (or 300 g frozen sour cherries)
• 70 g soft butter
• 50 g powdered sugar
• 100 g of dark bittersweet chocolate drops
• For frosting:
• 80 g cream cheese
• 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• Fresh cherries and chocolate drops to sprinkle

Substitution Options

• If you don’t have fresh cherries, frozen ones work perfectly fine.
• Replace baked cocoa with regular unsweetened cocoa powder if needed.
• Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and milk instead of regular dairy products.
• Not a fan of dark chocolate? Swap it for semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

To start, heat the milk, butter, and baked cocoa in a small saucepan until the butter melts completely. Whisk everything together until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and crumbled yeast. Pour in the lukewarm cocoa mixture and crack in the egg. Using a hand mixer with a kneading hook, blend everything for about 5 minutes until you get a soft, elastic dough. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an hour. Pro tip: Place the bowl in a warm spot to help the dough puff up faster.

Step 2: Get Ready for Filling

While the dough rests, prep your cherries. Wash and dry them thoroughly, then remove the pits and cut them in half. In another bowl, beat the soft butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for convection) and line an oval baking dish with parchment paper. Rolling the dough will be much easier if you lightly flour the surface first.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has doubled in size, roll it out into a rectangle measuring 25 cm x 50 cm. Spread the butter-sugar mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cherry halves and chocolate drops over the top. Carefully roll the dough from the long side, creating a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 10 equal pieces. Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each one for expansion. Chef’s tip: Dip your knife in flour before cutting to prevent sticking.

Timing Breakdown

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 60 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Chef’s Secret

For extra gooeyness, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter right after baking. This adds a shiny glaze and keeps the rolls wonderfully moist.

Fun Fact About Cherries

Did you know that cherries are packed with antioxidants? Not only do they add a pop of color to desserts, but they’re also good for you! A study found that eating cherries may reduce inflammation and improve sleep quality. So go ahead—enjoy those Cherry Chocolate Rolls guilt-free!

Necessary Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Hand mixer with kneading hook
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Oval baking dish (about 30 cm)
• Sharp knife

Storage Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Frozen rolls can be thawed overnight in the fridge or reheated directly in the oven at 150°C for 10 minutes.

If you live in a humid climate, avoid leaving the rolls uncovered, as they might lose their soft texture. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming stored goods.

Pro tip: Freeze the rolls unglazed if you plan to store them for a while. Add the cream cheese frosting just before serving for maximum freshness.

Tips and Advice

• Knead the dough thoroughly to ensure a soft, airy texture.
• Don’t rush the rising process—it’s key to achieving fluffy rolls.
• Use a ruler to measure the dough rectangle for even-sized rolls.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking dish to allow proper airflow during baking.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with whole cherries and extra chocolate drops for a festive touch.
• Serve on a wooden board for a rustic vibe.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe, here are some ideas:

1. Whole Grain Flour: Substitute half the wheat flour with whole grain flour for added fiber.
2. Reduced Sugar: Cut the sugar by 25% without compromising flavor.
3. Coconut Oil: Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
4. No Added Sugar Frosting: Use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of honey instead of cream cheese frosting.
5. Fruit Swaps: Try blueberries or raspberries instead of cherries.
6. Vegan Version: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Rushing the Dough Rising Process

One common error is skipping or shortening the dough’s resting time. Yeast needs time to ferment and create air bubbles, which give the rolls their fluffy texture. If you rush this step, your rolls may turn out dense. To avoid this, find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise undisturbed.

Mistake 2: Overloading the Filling

It’s tempting to pile on the cherries and chocolate, but too much filling can cause the rolls to fall apart during baking. Stick to the recommended amounts, and distribute the ingredients evenly across the dough. Pro tip: Chill the log briefly before slicing to keep the filling intact.

Mistake 3: Burning the Bottom

Dark-colored pans can sometimes lead to burnt bottoms. To prevent this, use a light-colored baking dish or lower the oven rack position. You can also place a sheet of foil loosely over the rolls during the last few minutes of baking.

FAQs

Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried cherries, but soak them in warm water for 15 minutes beforehand to soften them. Drain well before using.

What type of flour should I use?

Type 405 wheat flour is ideal, but all-purpose flour works just as well. Both provide the right structure and softness for the dough.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and feel slightly firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and assemble the rolls the night before. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.

Do I need a stand mixer?

No, a hand mixer with a kneading hook works fine. However, if you prefer, you can knead the dough by hand for 8-10 minutes.

Can I skip the frosting?

Of course! The rolls are delicious on their own, though the frosting adds a creamy finishing touch.

Are these rolls kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the combination of chocolate and cherries. Just be sure to remove the cherry pits if using fresh cherries.

What if I don’t have a rolling pin?

Use a clean wine bottle or any cylindrical object to roll out the dough. It works just as well!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling the recipe is easy. Just make sure you have enough space for the dough to rise and enough baking dishes for baking.

Why does my dough feel sticky?

Sticky dough often means it needs more flour. Add a tablespoon at a time until the dough becomes manageable but still slightly tacky.

Final Thoughts

With their rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and soft dough, Cherry Chocolate Rolls are a treat worth making again and again. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these rolls promise happiness in every bite. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dessert that’ll leave everyone smiling. Happy baking!