Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Roll

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup of granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites with the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt over the mixture and fold until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to the edges.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.
8. Immediately turn the cake out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Peel off the parchment paper and roll the cake up with the towel while it’s warm. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light, fluffy filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake Roll

1. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and spread a generous layer of the cheesecake filling over the entire surface.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly across the cheesecake layer. For an enhanced flavor, stir in the optional almond extract before spreading.
3. Gently re-roll the cake without the towel, taking care not to press too hard to avoid squeezing out the filling.
4. Place the cake roll seam-side down on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least an hour to set.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

1. Dust the top of the cake roll with powdered sugar or pipe whipped cream along the roll for added decoration.
2. Garnish with fresh cherries or maraschino cherries and sprinkle chocolate shavings for a final touch.
3. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.