The smell of fresh chocolate in the kitchen is irresistible. As a dessert lover, I know how tempting a chocolate roll cake is. It has a soft chocolate cake, smooth vanilla cream, and a glossy chocolate topping. Together, they create a delicious mix of tastes and textures.
Table of Contents
The recipe for this beloved Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake has been updated. It now addresses common issues from past reviews. The new version is even more moist and flavorful, staying true to its chocolate taste. Small changes, like using melted butter and adding buttermilk, make a big difference.
What is a Chocolate Roll Cake
A chocolate roll cake, also known as a chocolate yule log, chocolate bûche de noël, or chocolate jelly roll, is a sponge cake. It’s made with cocoa powder and filled with a creamy filling. This dessert is a twist on the traditional Swiss roll, loved in Europe.
Origins and History
The chocolate roll cake comes from the Swiss roll, introduced in the 19th century. The Swiss roll has a light sponge cake wrapped around a sweet filling, like whipped cream or jam. The chocolate roll cake adds cocoa powder for a deep chocolate taste.
Types of Roll Cakes
- Swiss Roll: The classic sponge cake roll filled with whipped cream or jam.
- Jelly Roll: A variation with a fruit-based jelly or preserves as the filling.
- Yule Log: A festive, log-shaped chocolate roll cake typically served during the holiday season.
Different Names Around the World
The chocolate roll cake is known by many names. In France, it’s a chocolate roulade. In Italy, it’s a chocolate rotolo. At Christmas, it’s called a bûche de noël in France and Europe. In the English-speaking world, it’s often a chocolate jelly roll or Swiss roll.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chocolate Roll Cake
Making a delicious chocolate roll cake needs the right ingredients. The cake batter starts with cake flour or all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and separated eggs. It also includes oil and buttermilk or whole milk for moisture and richness. A bit of espresso powder adds to the cocoa flavor, and sugar makes it sweet.
The filling is made with heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. You can also add marshmallow creme for extra creaminess. The chocolate ganache topping uses heavy cream, semi-sweet chocolate, and a little corn syrup for shine.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cake Flour or All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure and texture to the cake |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dutch-Process or Natural) | Imparts rich chocolate flavor |
| Separated Eggs | Contributes to the light and airy sponge |
| Oil | Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake |
| Buttermilk or Whole Milk | Enhances the texture and flavor of the cake |
| Espresso Powder | Heightens the chocolate taste |
| Sugar | Sweetens the cake |
| Heavy Cream | Provides the base for the whipped cream filling and ganache topping |
| Vanilla Extract | Adds depth and aroma to the filling and ganache |
| Marshmallow Creme (Optional) | Contributes to the creamy texture of the filling |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate | Gives the ganache its rich chocolate flavor |
| Corn Syrup (Optional) | Enhances the glossy sheen of the ganache |
With these key ingredients, you can make a stunning chocolate roll cake. It’s sure to wow and please your family and friends.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect Chocolate Roll Cake, you need some key tools and equipment. Each item is important for the right texture and look. From the baking pan to the sieve, they all play a big part.
Basic Equipment List
- 12×17-inch baking pan: This size is key for even baking and easy rolling.
- Parchment paper: It stops the cake from sticking and makes it easy to handle.
- Hand or stand mixer with whisk attachment: It’s vital for whipping eggs and sugar to get a fluffy cake.
- Fine mesh sieve: Sifting dry ingredients like flour and cocoa ensures they mix well.
- Large bowls: You’ll need them for mixing, whipping cream, and making ganache.
- Rubber spatula: It’s great for folding ingredients, scraping the bowl, and spreading batter.
- Offset spatula: It helps spread whipped cream and ganache smoothly.
Optional Helpful Tools
While the basic list has what you need, some extra tools can help a lot:
- Kitchen scale: It’s great for precise measurements, especially with flour and sugar.
- Thermometer: It helps with tempering chocolate for the ganache, making it just right.
- Pastry brush: Use it to apply simple syrup for extra moisture.
With these tools, you’re ready to make a stunning Chocolate Roll Cake. It will surely wow your friends and family.
Step-by-Step Chocolate Roll Cake Recipe
Making a tasty chocolate roll cake at home is simple. Just follow these easy steps to make a moist, delicious treat that will wow everyone.
- First, preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C) with the fan on or 365°F (185°C) without a convection setting. Grease a baking pan and cover it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking powder, and ⅓ tsp of salt.
- In a large bowl, beat 4 large egg yolks with â…“ cup (66g) of white sugar until it’s light and fluffy. In another bowl, whip 4 large egg whites with â…” cup (133g) of white sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Mix the egg yolk mixture into the egg white mixture gently. Then, add ¼ cup of vegetable oil and 1 ⅓ tsp of vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is still warm, dust it with cocoa powder. Then, roll it up tightly. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
To make the filling, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 3 tbsp of confectioners’ sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla until stiff peaks form. Melt 2 tbsp of [Ingredient] and mix it into the whipped cream.
Once the cake is cool, unroll it. Spread the whipped cream filling over the surface. Roll it up again. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before adding the ganache topping.
Making the Perfect Chocolate Sponge
Making the perfect chocolate sponge cake is key to a great chocolate roll cake. To get the right texture, you need to master a few techniques.
Temperature Control Tips
Using room temperature eggs is crucial for a light sponge. Warmer eggs whip up better, making the cake fluffier. Also, bake at 350°F (177°C) for the best results.
Mixing Techniques
- Beat eggs and sugar until they’re thick and pale, falling back in ribbons.
- Fold in dry ingredients like flour and cocoa gently to keep air bubbles.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the cake for 9-11 minutes until it springs back. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist. Roll the cake while it’s warm to prevent cracks. Let it cool completely before filling and serving.
By using these techniques, you’ll make a light, airy, and moist chocolate sponge cake. This is the base for a delicious and beautiful chocolate roll.
Whipped Cream Filling Preparation
To make the perfect chocolate cream filling, start with cold, heavy whipping cream. Beat it on high speed until it forms firm peaks. Be careful not to over-whip. For a richer filling, melt some semi-sweet chocolate chips with a bit of whipped cream. Let it cool a bit, then fold it into the rest of the whipped cream.
For more flavor, add a touch of vanilla extract and a dollop of marshmallow crème. The vanilla will sweeten it, and the marshmallow crème will make it silky. Spread the chocolate cream evenly over the cooled cake, leaving a small border to prevent overflow when rolling.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) |
| Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup (50 g) |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1/2 cup (85 g) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon (5 ml) |
| Marshmallow crème (optional) | 1/4 cup (60 g) |
Now that you have your whipped cream filling ready, you’re almost there. Your chocolate roll cake will impress everyone. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving for the best taste and texture.
Chocolate Ganache Topping Guide
Make your homemade Chocolate Roll Cake even better with a rich chocolate ganache topping. This velvety glaze is the perfect finish for your dessert. Let’s explore how to make the perfect ganache recipe.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
The quality of your chocolate is crucial for a great chocolate ganache. Choose high-quality chocolate bars, like Baker’s or Ghirardelli, with a bittersweet taste (around 60% cacao). Don’t use chocolate chips, as they melt differently.
Perfect Ganache Consistency
To get the right ganache, chop the chocolate finely for easy melting. Heat the heavy cream until it simmers, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until it’s smooth and shiny.
For a glossy finish, add a bit of corn syrup to the ganache. If it’s too thick, add more cream. If it’s too thin, add more chocolate until it’s just right.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped | 220g |
| Heavy Cream | 100ml |
| Corn Syrup (optional) | 1 tbsp |
When your chocolate ganache is ready, pour it over the cooled Chocolate Roll Cake. It will set to a glossy finish, making your dessert truly special.
“A decadent chocolate ganache topping can turn a simple Chocolate Roll Cake into a dessert masterpiece.”
Rolling Techniques and Tips
Rolling the perfect chocolate roll cake needs practice. But with the right techniques, you can get a beautiful swirl without cracks. Start by rolling the cake while it’s still warm. This helps prevent cracks.
Use a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper dusted with cocoa powder. Roll the cake gently and slowly. This ensures an even and smooth roll.
When adding the filling, unroll the cooled cake carefully. Spread the filling evenly across the surface. Then, re-roll the cake tightly at the beginning for a neat spiral.
Make sure to fill the center curl more generously. This will give you a better definition and a more appealing look.
Chill the rolled cake before slicing for the cleanest cuts. By following these cake rolling tips and preventing cake cracks, you’ll make a stunning chocolate roll cake. It’s sure to impress everyone.