If you love rich, chocolatey desserts with a touch of elegance, this Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake is your next must-bake masterpiece. Featuring a light and airy chocolate sponge rolled with creamy whipped filling, it’s a dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make.
Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or afternoon tea, this timeless treat brings bakery-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. With a few simple techniques, you can create a beautiful swirl of moist chocolate cake and velvety cream that melts in every bite.
Ingredients
Serves 8–10
For the Chocolate Sponge:
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache (optional topping):
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (90g) semisweet chocolate chips
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 12–15 minutes
- Cooling and assembly: 45 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour, 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Sponge
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar together for 3–4 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix gently.
- In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Sponge
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched.
Step 4: Roll the Cake
- While warm, carefully invert the cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with cocoa powder.
- Peel off the parchment paper and gently roll the cake (with the towel) from the short end.
- Let it cool completely while rolled — this helps it hold its shape.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Filling
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Assemble the Roll
- Unroll the cooled cake gently and spread the whipped cream evenly on top.
- Re-roll the cake carefully without the towel.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Step 7: Optional Chocolate Ganache
- Heat cream until steaming, then pour over chocolate chips.
- Stir until smooth and glossy, then pour over the chilled roll for an elegant finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust the roll with powdered sugar or cocoa before serving.
- Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
- Serve chilled with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
- For festive occasions, decorate with edible gold dust or chocolate curls.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 17 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Sugars | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 95 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Cocoa powder provides antioxidants and rich flavor with fewer calories than chocolate bars.
- Whipped cream filling gives a luscious texture while keeping the dessert light.
- Can be adjusted for lower sugar by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overbake — the cake should be soft and flexible for rolling.
- Roll while warm to prevent cracks.
- Chill before slicing for clean, beautiful swirls.
- Add espresso powder to the batter for a mocha twist.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Hazelnut Swiss Roll: Spread Nutella instead of cream for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Berry Swiss Roll: Add a layer of strawberry jam or fresh fruit with the cream.
- Holiday Edition: Mix cinnamon or peppermint extract into the filling for festive flavor.
This Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake is a classic dessert that combines elegance with irresistible taste. Its soft, cocoa-rich sponge and creamy filling make every bite a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.
Whether you serve it at family gatherings, holidays, or as a sweet weekend treat, this cake guarantees smiles all around — and it’s far easier to make than it looks!