Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe

Dreamy Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe: Swirls of Sweet Happiness

Sweet memories often swirl around a perfect chocolate cake roll that whispers comfort and joy.

Layers of delicate sponge dance with creamy filling, creating a dessert that feels like a warm embrace.

Soft chocolate perfection melts across your palate with each delightful bite.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this elegant treat without intimidation.

Richness meets simplicity in a recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something magical.

Crisp edges and tender center promise a dessert that will make every gathering special.

Ready to create a showstopping dessert that sparks smiles and conversation?

Ingredients for a Soft and Moist Chocolate Cake Roll

Cake Base:
  • Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure to the chocolate cake roll.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and dark color to the cake.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and help create a light, fluffy texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake's tender crumb.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and softness in the cake roll.
  • Milk: Contributes to the cake's smooth and tender texture.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
Leavening and Seasoning:
  • Baking Powder, Salt: Help the cake rise and balance the flavors.
Finishing Touches:
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides a sweet dusting and decorative finish to the cake roll.
  • Whipped Cream or Frosting: Adds a creamy filling and extra layer of flavor.

Easy Steps to Bake and Roll a Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll

Easy Steps to Bake and Roll a Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll

Step 1: Prep Baking Station

Set oven to 350°F and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper. Make sure the paper covers the entire surface smoothly without wrinkles.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until they are perfectly blended with no lumps.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow.

Pour in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil
  • Milk

Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Create Cake Batter

Slowly fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, stirring gently to maintain the airy texture.

Mix until no flour streaks remain.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Ensure the batter reaches all corners.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place pan in preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.

The cake is done when it springs back lightly when touched and edges start to pull away from pan sides.

Step 7: Initial Roll

Immediately after removing from oven, sprinkle a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar.

Carefully turn cake onto towel and roll it up, allowing cake to cool in this curved shape.

Step 8: Fill and Finish Roll

Gently unroll cooled cake, spread a layer of whipped cream or frosting across the surface, then carefully roll the cake back up.

Step 9: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate cake roll for at least an hour to set. Before serving, dust with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Insider Tips to Get the Best Texture and Chocolate Flavor

  • Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, tender cake texture.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better volume and incorporation when beating with sugar.
  • Roll the cake while warm to prevent cracking and make shaping easier, using a clean kitchen towel prevents sticking.
  • Choose high-quality cocoa powder for a rich, deep chocolate flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
  • Store the cake roll in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste.

Creative Ideas to Make Your Cake Roll Stand Out

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Roll: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Swirl: Swap milk with almond or coconut milk, use coconut cream instead of whipped cream.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cake Roll: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and coconut whipped cream for filling.
  • Low-Sugar Chocolate Spiral: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, add sugar-free chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Chocolate Cake Roll Delights

  • Decadent Dessert Platter: Slice the chocolate cake roll and arrange on a beautiful platter with fresh berries, mint leaves, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant presentation.
  • Café-Style Serving: Pair each slice with a hot espresso or cappuccino, creating a classic European-inspired dessert experience that elevates the cake's rich chocolate flavor.
  • Ice Cream Companion: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream, allowing the cool creaminess to complement the soft, rolled cake's warm chocolate notes.
  • Celebration Centerpiece: Transform the cake roll into a stunning birthday or holiday dessert by adding birthday candles, edible flowers, or decorative chocolate shavings on top.

How to Keep Your Cake Roll Fresh and Delicious Longer

  • Store leftover chocolate cake roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying.
  • Place the cake roll in an airtight container to preserve its soft texture and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Freeze the cake roll by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

  • Is the cake roll difficult to make?

No, it’s actually quite simple! Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll create a beautiful dessert with minimal baking experience.

  • Can I make this cake roll ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. After rolling and filling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.

  • What if my cake cracks when rolling?

Don’t worry! Roll the cake while it’s still warm and use a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar. This helps prevent cracking and makes rolling easier.

  • How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The cake is done when it springs back lightly when touched and looks set, usually after 12-15 minutes of baking. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake soft and pliable.

Classic Chocolate Cake Roll That Will Wow Your Guests

Classic Chocolate Cake Roll That Will Wow Your Guests
  • Craft a Delectable Dessert: Master a showstopping chocolate cake roll that impresses guests with minimal kitchen skills, perfect for bakers of all levels.
  • Quick and Simple Preparation: Combine ingredients in just a few steps, making this recipe ideal for spontaneous sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Create a stunning dessert that works brilliantly for birthdays, potlucks, holiday celebrations, or casual weekend treats that everyone will love.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap fillings like whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or fruit preserves to match personal preferences and create endless delicious variations.
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Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe

Perfect Chocolate Cake Roll Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Rich chocolate cake roll from Italy delights dessert enthusiasts with its elegant spiral design. Cocoa-infused sponge and silky cream create a luxurious treat you will savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (90 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Liquid and Fat Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup milk

Additional Ingredients:

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • 1 cup whipped cream or chocolate frosting (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then heat the oven to 350F (175C).
  2. Combine dry ingredients – flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt – in a mixing bowl.
  3. Whisk eggs and sugar until they transform into a pale, voluminous mixture.
  4. Incorporate vanilla, oil, and milk into the egg mixture, blending thoroughly.
  5. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring complete integration without overmixing.
  6. Transfer batter to the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer using a spatula.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, watching for a set texture and slight springback when touched.
  8. Immediately transfer hot cake from oven and carefully roll with a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar while still warm.
  9. Allow cake to cool completely within the towel, maintaining its rolled shape.
  10. Unroll the cooled cake and generously spread with whipped cream or preferred frosting.
  11. Carefully re-roll the cake, encasing the filling smoothly.
  12. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to stabilize the structure.
  13. Before serving, dust the exterior with a light layer of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs for a fluffier, more voluminous cake texture that rises evenly and incorporates air more effectively.
  • Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent the cake from sticking and cracking during the initial rolling process.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Experiment with filling variations like chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or cream cheese frosting to create unique flavor profiles and personalize the dessert.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 195 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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