Chocolate Cake Roll

Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe: A Delightfully Decadent Dessert

There’s something irresistibly charming about a chocolate cake roll that captivates both the eyes and the palate. This delightful dessert, often seen at gatherings and special occasions, offers the perfect intersection of rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, creamy filling. Each slice reveals a mesmerizing spiral, making it not just a treat for the taste buds but also an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table. As someone who has embraced this recipe over the years, I can tell you it’s bound to impress. Whether it’s for a birthday party, holiday celebration, or simply a sweet indulgence, a chocolate cake roll brings joy to any moment.

What Makes This Recipe Special

When you think about desserts that leave a lasting impression, a chocolate cake roll stands out. This recipe is not just about chocolate; it’s about texture, flavor, and presentation.

• Quick and Easy: With just about 30 minutes of active preparation time and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a fun project.
• Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients are pantry staples, which means you won’t break the bank to create something delightful.
• Customizable: The filling can be adjusted to include fruits, other flavors, or even whipped cream variations.
• Visually Stunning: The beautiful spiral creates a wow factor that simply cannot be matched.

“Every time I make this cake roll, it disappears within minutes. A friend even asked me to make two for her birthday; that’s how much we adore it!”

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating a chocolate cake roll might seem daunting at first, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

1. Prep Work: Lightly butter your jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. Batter-Making: Combine your dry ingredients and mix them with your butter and eggs to form a smooth batter.
3. Baking: Spread the batter evenly in the pan and bake until perfectly springy.
4. Filling Creation: While the cake cools, whip together the creamy filling for that luscious touch.
5. Ganache Time: Finally, cap it off with a luscious chocolate ganache before serving.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make this delectable chocolate cake roll, here’s what you will need:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa (such as Hershey’s dark or Ghirardelli)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (1/2 stick)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 package cream cheese, 8 ounces, room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (additional)
• 1 teaspoon light corn syrup (optional, for shine)
• 1 bar good quality chocolate, 4 ounces (like Ghirardelli)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly butter a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder; set it aside.
3. In a stand mixer, combine sugar and butter, mixing on medium for 30 seconds, then on high for another 30 seconds until smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla and mix for about another 30 seconds until fully integrated. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spread the batter into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches all corners. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cake springs back when touched.
6. Once out of the oven, cool the cake for a minute, then gently lift it using the parchment. Roll it tightly from one end while still warm and place it seam side down in the fridge to cool completely.
7. Meanwhile, whip the cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate.
8. In the same mixing bowl, whisk cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla, combining well. Fold in the whipped cream gently.
9. Unroll the cooled cake and spread filling over, leaving space at the edges. Roll it back up without the parchment and wrap it tightly in plastic. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
10. For the ganache, chop the chocolate and heat cream until bubbling, then pour over the chocolate to melt. Stir until smooth and cool in the fridge.
11. Once chilled, pour the ganache over the roll on a wire rack atop parchment. Refrigerate until it sets.
12. Slice and serve!

Serving Ideas for Your Chocolate Cake Roll

When it comes to serving your chocolate cake roll, presentation is key! Here are some delightful suggestions:

• Garnish with berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries complement the rich chocolate beautifully.
• Serve with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast.
• Dust with powdered sugar: A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant finishing touch.
• Add a drizzle of caramel: For a different flavor profile, a thin line of caramel sauce can elevate the dessert.
• Pair with a hot drink: Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.

Best Way to Store Chocolate Cake Roll

To keep your chocolate cake roll fresh and delicious:

• Refrigeration: Keep any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Safe Handling: Always ensure your cake is properly covered to avoid absorbing fridge odors.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are a few insider tips to ensure your cake roll turns out perfectly:

• Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t over-mix: Over-mixing can lead to a denser cake. Mix just until combined.
• Roll while warm: Rolling the cake while it’s still warm prevents cracking when you fill and reroll it.
• Make it ahead: This dessert stores beautifully, so feel free to make it a day in advance!

Creative Twists on the Original

If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:

• Coffee flavor: Add espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor.
• Nutty goodness: Fold in crushed nuts into the filling for added texture.
• Fruit infusion: Incorporate fruit preserves in the filling or layer some fresh fruit with the whipped cream.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Absolutely! While Dutch-process cocoa gives a rich flavor, you can use natural cocoa powder. Just note that it may alter the taste slightly.

How long does this cake last?

When stored properly in the fridge, your chocolate cake roll should last for about three days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months!

Is it possible to make this cake roll vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use a plant-based butter and cream for the filling. The texture may be different, but the taste will still be delightful!

Can I skip the ganache?

Certainly! You can simply dust the top with powdered sugar, or serve it plain for a lighter option.

Chocolate Cake Roll

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• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful chocolate cake roll filled with creamy filling, perfect for special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 package cream cheese, 8 ounces, room temperature
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (additional)
• 1 teaspoon light corn syrup (optional)
• 1 bar good quality chocolate, 4 ounces

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan with butter and parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In a stand mixer, beat sugar and butter until smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully combined, then gradually mix in dry ingredients.
5. Spread batter in the prepared pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until springy.
6. Cool the cake for a minute, then gently roll it up using the parchment paper and refrigerate to cool completely.
7. Whip heavy cream on high until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
8. In the same bowl, whisk cream cheese, then add powdered sugar and vanilla before folding in whipped cream.
9. Unroll cooled cake, spread filling, and roll back up without parchment. Chill for 30 minutes.
10. For ganache, heat cream, pour over chopped chocolate, stir until smooth, and cool.
11. Pour ganache over the cake roll and refrigerate until set.
12. Slice and serve, garnishing as desired.

Notes

For a lighter option, skip the ganache and dust with powdered sugar. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chocolate, cake roll, dessert, festive, creamy filling